Visit Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a city whose identity has always been closely tied to the sea. Situated on the south coast of Hampshire, it is Britain’s only island city and has played an important role in the country’s naval history for centuries. Today, that proud maritime heritage sits alongside a lively modern waterfront, making Portsmouth an especially interesting city to explore.

At the heart of the city’s history is Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Here visitors can see some remarkable reminders of Britain’s naval past, including Royal Navy Museums: HMS Warrior, HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum. The dockyard has been a working naval site for hundreds of years and remains one of the city’s greatest attractions.

Perhaps the most recognisable modern landmark is the Spinnaker Tower, rising 170 metres above Portsmouth Harbour. Its distinctive sail-shaped design reflects the city’s long association with sailing and the sea, while its viewing decks provide spectacular views across the harbour, the Solent and towards the Isle of Wight.

Nearby, Gunwharf Quays has transformed what was once a naval site into a bustling waterfront destination filled with shops, restaurants and leisure activities. Further around the coast, Southsea provides a more traditional seaside atmosphere, with its seafront, pier, open spaces and historic fortifications.

Portsmouth also has a remarkable connection with the Second World War. The city was heavily bombed during the Blitz but played a crucial role in the D-Day preparations and became one of the principal departure points for Allied forces heading to Normandy. The story is preserved at the D-Day Story on Southsea seafront.

Portsmouth is therefore a city where history, the sea and modern life come together particularly well. Whether you are interested in naval history, architecture, shopping, the seaside or simply enjoying the waterfront, Portsmouth offers plenty to discover.