OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE 2020 PORTSMOUTH

WWW.VISITPORTSMOUTH.CO.UK Book online & save 20% Welcome to Portsmouth The Great Waterfront City

With a perfect location A visit to the iconic Emirates Spinnaker on England’s south coast, Tower is a must during your visit; enjoy Portsmouth is home to world- the breath-taking panoramic views class attractions, fabulous across Portsmouth and beyond. Stay on shopping, amazing events and the waterfront with a visit to Gunwharf a fantastic cultural and creative Quays to shop at over 90 premium offer. Add to this an array of designer outlets and eat at one of 30 cosmopolitan bars and restaurants. evening entertainment, mouth- watering food and great places A short walk takes you to Portsmouth to stay, and you can see why Historic Dockyard, home to the HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH Portsmouth is the top choice finest maritime heritage in the world, for a short break or day visit. including the historic ships HMS Victory, HMS Warrior 1860, Mary Rose and M.33, along with the City of the sea Coming soon – Landing Craft Tank (LCT) 7074 National Museum of the Royal Navy. As the UK’s only island city, home to LCT 7074 is one of the last surviving The D-Day Story. Two tanks, will take Stroll through the cobbled streets of an unparalleled collection of maritime examples of a massive landing craft from pride of place on the deck of LCT7074 Old Portsmouth and walk along the heritage, the Royal Navy and great D-Day. This 59-metres (200-feet) long as a permanent reminder of the work waterfront to Southsea where you sailing – including the home base of Ben landing craft could carry up to ten tanks undertaken by this unsung hero. will find miles of beach and seafront Ainslie’s Ineos Team UK, Portsmouth and their crew and on 6 June 1944, she Conserving and opening LCT 7074 to attractions. Visit Henry VIII’s castle has always had a love affair with the sea. carried tanks to one of the five beaches the public is a joint project between The and The D-Day Story museum. picked as the landing site for the Allied HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince National Museum of the Royal Navy troops; Gold beach in Normandy. Portsmouth has great literary connections. of Wales, the Royal Navy’s new aircraft and The D-Day Story Portsmouth, Discover more about the city’s Sherlock carriers, are both based in Portsmouth. This enormous vehicle is currently being with funding from the National Lottery Holmes connection at Portsmouth If you are lucky, you may time your visit conserved and once this work is complete Heritage Fund. Museum and visit the birthplace of when one of these is in port and available it will be transported to Southsea the great author, Charles Dickens. to view from the water. Seafront, to later open as part of

4 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 EMIRATES SPINNAKER TOWER AND GUNWHARF QUAYS OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 5 10am – ​Portsmouth Historic Dockyard After a good breakfast (you’ll need it for all of today’s exploring!) it’s time to visit 48 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Here DAY ONE HOURS you can get on board HMS Victory, the flagship of Vice-Admiral Lord Nelson’s fleet, or take a walk along HMS Warrior 1860, the world’s first iron hulled ship. In in fact, there are 11 attractions to discover at HMS WARRIOR, PORTSMOUTH HISTORIC DOCKYARD Portsmouth EMIRATES SPINNAKER TOWER the dockyard – ​including a harbour tour – ​all of which you can explore with one ticket.

With world-class attractions, 1pm – ​Gunwharf Quays 5pm – ​World cuisine – ​take your pick great places to shop and DAY TWO A short stroll from the dockyard entrance Whether you want posh pub grub, tempting history around every corner, lies Gunwharf Quays – ​the waterfront tapas or a classic curry, Portsmouth can Portsmouth really does offer outlet centre. In addition to the big-name deliver. Castle Road, Osborne Road much more than you could brands offering discount prices (everyone and Albert Road all have a huge variety squeeze into a day trip. So don’t from Armani to Adidas, Levi’s to Lindt) of independent restaurants, offering miss out on all the city has to you’ll find a host of coffee shops, bars and authentic cuisine from all over the world. offer – ​book yourself a weekend restaurants right at the water’s edge. There’s You certainly won’t be short on choice! also a 14-screen cinema, bowling alley and break to enjoy all the highlights. 7pm – ​A seafront stroll contemporary art gallery to explore. Full up and sated from your evening meal, 3pm – ​Emirates Spinnaker Tower why not round off the day with a stroll THE MARY ROSE Gunwharf Quays is also where you’ll along the seafront? The promenade offers find the Emirates Spinnaker Tower. Take miles of walkway, past two piers, one castle 1pm – ​The Mary Rose a ride up to the view decks 100 metres and lots more besides. above sea level to enjoy views stretching Start off your visit with a trip to out for 23 miles of city, coast and country. the Mary Rose museum and discover GUNWHARF QUAYS There are panels throughout the view all about the ship and her crew. decks showing points of interest, and even It was off the coast of Portsmouth that the Café in the Clouds at View Deck 2 – ​ Henry VIII’s flagship sank during battle where you can enjoy a very high tea. with the French. She lay at the bottom of the Solent for 437 years, before the largest marine salvage operation ever undertaken DAY THREE raised her to the surface. The ship is now 10am – ​The D-Day Story on display at her very own museum, The D-Day Story, which sits between alongside the many hundreds of Tudor Southsea seafront and common, tells the HENRY VIII’S SOUTHSEA CASTLE artefacts that were also recovered. OLD PORTSMOUTH personal accounts of those involved in the Normandy Landings of 1944. You can get fresh insight into what the operation 4pm – ​Old Portsmouth 7pm – ​Take in a show involved, and how it totally changed the Head from the Mary Rose across to the Portsmouth has two Matcham theatres, a complexion of World War Two, as well historic quarter of Old Portsmouth – the host of live music venues, regular comedy as the lives of all those who took part. location of Portsmouth Anglican Cathedral clubs and loads more besides. Treat yourself 12pm – ​Southsea Castle and a host of historic fortifications ready to a show at any one of these historic to explore. It’s a haven of cobbled streets, venues, which welcome local performers Your 48 hours began with Henry VIII, Victorian townhouses and a great many and household names alike. Check the so it’s only fitting to end with the pubs and restaurants for an evening listings on www.visitportsmouth.co.uk notorious king, too. The story goes that meal. It’s also worth paying a visit to the for full details of what’s on during your visit. King Henry helped design Southsea Hotwalls Studios, where talented designer- Castle, influencing its shape to make it makers create and showcase their wares. more like those on the continent at the time. He was also stood within the castle walls when The Mary Rose sank during All this packed into 48 hours – ​and you’ve still only scratched the Battle of the Solent. Today, Southsea the surface! This is exactly why you need much longer than a KINGS THEATRE Castle has a museum, restaurant, gift shop THE D-DAY STORY day to truly explore what Portsmouth has to offer. and even an on-site brewery.

6 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 7 Five fab reasons to visit

HMS VICTORY, PORTSMOUTH HISTORIC DOCKYARD

The Mary Rose

Uncover the compelling world of cook, the surgeon, and even the ship’s Henry VIII’s England at The Mary Rose, dog! Find out how they ate, drank, Portsmouth’s number one attraction worked and occasionally relaxed on on TripAdvisor. board the king’s mighty flagship. The Mary Rose tells an emotionally Experience the stunning views of Henry captivating story of Tudor times, bringing VIII’s favourite warship, which sank the personal stories of the crew to life in 1545 and was raised spectacularly through a fascinating, atmospheric in 1982, and see the story come to life

HMS VICTORY, PORTSMOUTH HISTORIC DOCKYARD exhibition of recovered objects. Get to through engaging audio-visual projections know the officers, the carpenters, the and views onto the Mary Rose in a world-class immersive experience. Get to ACTOR DEMONSTRATING THE ART OF THE CUTLASS ONBOARD HMS WARRIOR, PORTSMOUTH HISTORIC DOCKYARD offering an opportunity for the Royal grips with a replica Tudor longbow and Navy to showcase the ingenuity and the ship’s original anchor rope – ​you will technology behind the ship, as well as never feel closer to the sights, sounds and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to show tax-payers how their money was smells of Henry’s England! See HMS Victory like never before. open to share the fascinating and ever- being spent. Now you can be there too. www.maryrose.org Thirty million people have visited HMS evolving tale of her construction, service A dozen areas of the ship including Victory at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and ongoing conservation. the captain’s cabin, galley and cabins but not even the iconic Great Briton Swashes are buckled and timbers shivered belonging to senior officers have Vice-Admiral Lord Nelson himself at the Historic Dockyard’s incredibly been opened to the public for the first would have seen the remarkable views time. Across all four decks, visitors popular blockbuster family exhibition “....the Mary Rose that are set to welcome visitors in 2020. can encounter costumed actors, each ‘Horrible Histories® Pirates’ which is portraying a colourful character linked Museum is in my For the first time ever, the dry dock in based on the best-selling series by Terry to the Round-Britain tour. opinion one of – ​ which she sits, itself an ancient monument, Deary and illustrator Martin Brown. is included on the visitor route. Visitors As fans of the books and TV series will There has been a real buzz around if not the – ​most will descend into the dry dock via stairs expect, ‘Horrible Histories® Pirates’ takes Portsmouth since the arrival of the comprehensive and and go under the 3,526-tonne naval a funny and foul look into pirate history, country’s largest aircraft carrier HMS integrated museum marvel to glimpse her oldest areas, rarely complete with parrots, cutlasses, all the Queen Elizabeth, and now she’s been experience in the seen, including the elm keel that has gore and more. The exhibition has been joined by her sister ship HMS Prince UK and Europe.” supported Victory since she was laid developed in association with Scholastic of Wales. There really isn’t anywhere down over 260 years ago in 1759. UK and has been shipped to Portsmouth better to catch a glimpse of this giant TRIPADVISOR REVIEW across the seven seas, all the way from the than from the Historic Dockyard. Choose Gaining access to dry dock no. 2 is Australian National Maritime Museum the best vantage point, including from just part of a major new investment by in Sydney. HMS Victory, or grab a Harbour Tour The National Museum of the Royal Navy and imagine you’re really on board. to tell visitors even more about Victory. In 1863 HMS Warrior embarked on a THE MARY ROSE A new gallery ‘The Nation’s Flagship’ will ‘thank you’ publicity tour around Britain, www.historicdockyard.co.uk

8 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 9 Five fab reasons to visit

Emirates Spinnaker Tower

Emirates Spinnaker Tower stands at 170 metres tall, offering breath-taking 23 mile views over Portsmouth Harbour, the city, the Solent, the South Downs and the Isle of Wight.

The iconic structure is a popular IT’S ALL ABOUT THE destination, boasting a high-speed lift and three sky-high viewing decks. Venture across the thrilling glass floor WOW

at 100 metres above sea level; discover EMIRATES SPINNAKER TOWER stories behind the surrounding sites with informative touch screen displays; A spectacular and iconic destination providing breath-taking try vertigo-inducing virtual reality; Gunwharf Quays 350 degree vistas and unique experience breathe in the view from the open air ‘Sky Garden’; relax in ‘The Clouds’ Gunwharf Quays’ relaxed approach to Furthermore, why not book a blast out BOOK ONLINE NOW spinnakertower.co.uk with a glass of bubbly (pre-booking shopping makes it the perfect day out on the Solent with Onboard RIBS, travel recommended); and enjoy delicious destination. With over 30 restaurants, over to one of the Solent Forts or take a meals made with locally sourced bars and cafés, you can have a lazy lunch more leisurely tour around the harbour ingredients in the Waterfront Café. in Loch Fyne, enjoy French cuisine in with full commentary. Children can Brasserie Blanc, share a platter in Nando’s, follow the history trail around the centre Thrill seekers can book on to one of indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at matching landmarks with stickers or “It’s one of those places you the Tower’s 100 metre abseil days. For Patisserie Valerie or watch the boats go visit Horatio’s Hideaway, the children’s something a little more decadent, book by in one of the many waterfront bars. play area. In addition, during school in advance for a ‘High Tea’ experience – ​ will never forget. Magical.” holidays there is the opportunity to set a traditional afternoon tea served 110 You can also visit the 14-screen multiplex sail at the Miniports and enjoy vintage metres up! Vue cinema, 26-lane Hollywood fairground rides. TripAdvisor Bowl, Grosvenor casino and Aspex www.spinnakertower.co.uk contemporary art gallery. www.gunwharf-quays.com The D-Day Story

This new museum tells the story of D-Day in World War Two – ​from the preparation and build-up, to the landings and the Battle of Normandy. The story is told through the perspectives of the people involved, using authentic objects, interactives and stunning audio-visual. The impressive 83 metre Overlord Embroidery offers a fantastic finale to the visit in the Legacy gallery, which also includes the ‘Making of the Embroidery’. 500 years. New – the arrival of LCT 7074, A heartbeat away. opening as part of The D-Day Story (more information on page 5). Book now and save at MaryRose.org GUNWHARF QUAYS www.theddaystory.com

10 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 11 Beside the seaside Henry VIII’s Blue Reef Aquarium The Piers Cumberland House, Canoe Lake Southsea Castle Portsmouth Natural Discover the underwater world at Blue A trip to the seaside wouldn’t be complete This fun, family spot is popular for crabbing, History Museum Southsea Castle was part of a series of Reef – ​from sharks to clownfish, jellyfish without a visit to a pier and Southsea has pedalos and picnics. With a model village, to otters, there’s plenty to see. Take in the rose garden, tennis courts, choice of cafés fortifications built in 1544 by King Henry two! South Parade Pier is ideal for a stroll. Just by Canoe Lake is Cumberland colourful and exotic inhabitants of the coral and play park complete with water splash, VIII to protect the country from invaders, It offers spectacular views out across the House Natural History Museum, which reef in the spectacular underwater tunnel it’s a must on sunny days. and from where he watched his favourite Solent, plus restaurants, shops, pop-up includes a seasonal butterfly house. Meet and come face to face with the wonders warship, the Mary Rose, tragically capsize eateries, fun activities and an arcade. the resident iguanodon, find out about of the aquatic world. Explore the planet’s and sink in 1545. The Gaiety Bar also hosts functions Portsmouth’s local wildlife (including rainforests as you encounter some of the and events throughout the year. the observational beehive) and explore The castle keep explains the fortification’s most amazing amphibians – ​from deadly the variety in the natural world in the history while the ramparts offer amazing poison dart frogs to curious iguanas. Clarence Pier is one of the largest views. Enjoy a spot of lunch or a relaxing amusement parks on the south coast A-Z of Natural History display. The With more than 40 different displays, dinner at the castle’s Courtyard Café, treat and boasts a range of amusements, rides gardens are an excellent place to spot it’s hard to decide what to see first! yourself at the Waterfront Gifts shop and activities for all the family. The local wildlife in its natural habitat, or enjoy a picnic during summery weather. or visit the on-site micro brewery. This In warm weather enjoy the Blue Reef arcades and Pirates & Princesses indoor free seafront attraction is open March Beach Club with its sandy beach, rock adventure playground are open all year Open all year – ​butterflies no wing

to October. www.southseacastle.co.uk pool, sandpit and outdoor splash play round along with a range of places to between May and September. HENRY VIII’S SOUTHSEA CASTLE (café open all year). area. www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk eat and drink. www.clarencepier.co.uk www.portsmouthnaturalhistory.co.uk

The seafront at Southsea is not to be missed, with the beach stretching four miles from Old Portsmouth to Eastney. Take in the sea air and treat yourself to an ice cream on the sunny promenade, looking out across the Solent, Europe’s busiest waterway. On any given day you can spot ferries, cruise liners, yachts, tall ships and warships – ​including  (if you are lucky) the brand new Queen Aerial view of Canoe Lake Shaun Roster Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers. www.shaunroster.com

12 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 13 Independent island

Many independent creatives, artisans, brewers and businesses are proud to call Portsmouth home.

PIE AND VINYL

Loaves and fishes

Treat yourself to some mouth-wateringly good bread at one of the city’s artisan bakeries – ​try Bread Addiction and The Sourdough Bakehouse, both in Elm Grove, Southsea. For a taste of the sea head to the fish market in Old Portsmouth and check out the day’s catch.

Getting crafty

The Hotwalls Studios in Old Portsmouth brings local artists, designers and makers HIDEOUT COFFEE COMPANY together, in an exceptional heritage location. Visit on one of the Open Studios days to watch artists and makers at work Brewing and distilling Cafés and coffee shops and purchase or commission professional pieces. Take part in one of the many Portsmouth has a long association The island city has a great range of creative sessions including marble printing, with brewing and is home to a range cafés and coffee shops to tempt you macramé, portrait painting and weaving. of micro-breweries offering craft ales with fabulous food and drink. Join one of Southsea Bathing Hut’s fun and the opportunity for visitors to find Hideout Coffee Company in Lord and informative workshops exploring out more about the brewing process. Montgomery Way offers fabulous coffee the craft of natural skincare, held in the Breweries include Southsea Brewing and doughnuts plus much more. The beautiful surroundings of their natural Company, The Brewhouse & Kitchen, Parade Tea Rooms on Western Parade skincare apothecary. Greenwich Brew Pub, Staggeringly and the Coffee Cabin on Southsea Good Brewery and Irving Brewery to Common are both great for a bite to eat This is just a small selection of name just a few, offering beer for sale, with fabulous views. Palmerston Road, what is on offer so check online at tap rooms and brewery tours. Osborne Road and Marmion Road www.visitportsmouth/independentisland It is not just beer in Southsea also offer many tempting to find out more. being brewed here. locations for coffee and a cake including Southsea Coffee Portsmouth Distillery Company, the Panero Lounge makes gin and rum in and Farm Kitchen. the stunning setting of Fort Cumberland. Pie and Vinyl Record Café in Visitors can enjoy a full Castle Road offers an eclectic tour of the facilities, range of vinyl to browse and with expert explanations a delicious range of hot pies. about the processes used Nothing Ventured Vinyl in in the creation of these Albert Road is open on Friday fine spirits. The visit ends and Saturdays for record sales and live vibes. with a tasting and a chance to soak up some of the history – ​and of course the Dice in Albert Road and Game Over in

opportunity to make a purchase to High Street both offer gaming options, HOTWALLS STUDIOS take home! along with a drink and bite to eat.

14 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 THE BREWHOUSE & KITCHEN OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 15 Portsmouth Your money- Pass saving ticket to all the best attractions

OLD PORTSMOUTH Save Sea views, top For a taste of the sea you can’t beat restaurants and great fish and chips – ​for sea views head to Deep Blue on South Parade Pier or world cuisine Southsea Beach Café and The Briny, 20% both right on the beach front. Many restaurants at Gunwharf Quays on entry GUNWHARF QUAYS and Port Solent boast glorious terraces Combine your visit with one of the city’s to each overlooking the harbour and marina food events – ​the Seafood Festival in June respectively. or the Southsea Food Festival in July. attraction Both offer food stalls, demonstrations, When it comes to dining out, Gunwharf tastings and entertainment. Food Quays has something to suit every taste, with over 30 restaurants such as Brasserie Old Portsmouth glorious Blanc, Loch Fyne and Wagamama. Enjoy a laid back lunch, family meal or just Steeped in history, Old Portsmouth is catch up with friends. perfect for a wander through cobbled food! Port Solent is perfect for a relaxing meal streets and historic fortifications, followed with views across the marina. Choose from by a fabulous meal at one of the many The Portsmouth Pass is your ticket to all the traditional pubs, restaurants, bars and one of 15 bars and restaurants including biggest and best attractions the city has to Take the time to treat yourself coffee shops. In the warmer months the very popular O Sole Mio Italian family to some fabulous food while eat and drink al fresco, with great views offer. The Pass includes entry to The D-Day restaurant, Gracie-Ann’s independent visiting Portsmouth, there across the harbour. Story, Emirates Spinnaker Tower, Mary tea room and chains including Zizzi, is so much to choose from Harvester and many more. Rose and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. you’re sure to find something Unique dining to tickle your taste buds! Restaurant 27 and Montparnasse in Buy your Portsmouth Pass online at For something completely different treat Southsea both offer exceptional fine theddaystory.com or purchase in person dining. For something less formal eat yourself to really high tea in the Emirates your way around the world at quirky Spinnaker Tower, join one of the Tower’s at the Visitor Information Centre at the Hard cafés, brasseries, bistros and bars, with Sky Dining events, or head out to sea for Interchange, or at any participating attraction. food choices including English, Belgian, a truly amazing meal on No Man’s Fort  in the Solent. visitportsmouth.co.uk/portsmouthpass Old Portsmouth Chinese, French, Greek, Indian, Italian, Tom Langford Japanese Korean, Lebanese, Mexican, Explore www.visitportsmouth.co.uk for www.tomlangfordphoto.co.uk Spanish, Thai, Turkish and Vietnamese! more mouth-watering choices on offer.

16 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 Culture by the coast

ASPEX GALLERY From live music to high drama, great events, literary and artistic highlights, and comedy to make you laugh until it hurts, Portsmouth's cultural programme offers something for everyone.

KINGS THEATRE

  Victorious Festival Hotwalls Studios Tom Langford Sophie Twinning www.tomlangfordphoto.co.uk www.sophietwinning.com

VICTORIOUS FESTIVAL HOTWALLS STUDIOS Aspex Gallery Kings Theatre Dan Boss Alecsandra Raluca Dragoi

Unfortunately most events, performances imaginable and experience the growing Showcasing Southsea, Victorious’ dignified and beautiful Kings Theatre, The Guildhall Studio offers an eclectic Art for Art’s Sake and festivals have been cancelled this year. phenomenon of board gaming culture stunning seafront setting with a with its Italian Renaissance style of decor, mix of music, comedy, drama, children’s Below will give you a flavour of the kind with a selection of hundreds of traditional metropolitan backdrop creates the is one of the most complete Matcham theatre, spoken word and a range of Aspex Gallery in Gunwharf Quays of fabulous experience you can look out and modern board games. ultimate family-friendly festival theatres in the country. It plays host activities and workshops. presents an outstanding exhibition for in 2021 and beyond. experience. Alongside the scenery, to touring West End productions and programme featuring works by Portsmouth Comic Con – International Groundlings Theatre is an exciting experience an enormous free Kids Arena a varied programme of opera, ballet, contemporary artists from around the For literature lovers the Portsmouth Festival of Comics will be back on arts venue in Portsmouth based in the (Saturday and Sunday only), 13 stages comedy, drama and music. world. Aspex is also a great place to see BookFest, held in February and March 1 and 2 May 2021. This event is held stunning Beneficial School. This small packed with entertainment, bustling Portsmouth’s freshest artistic talent. Soak annually, offers an exciting programme at Portsmouth Guildhall and brings The newly renovated and much-loved venue offers a varied programme of markets and an amazing atmosphere. up the atmosphere in this former naval New Theatre Royal in the heart of the events for young and old, from pantos to of book events and writing workshops, the best of comic, film, TV and pop storehouse and make time for a coffee or For more information and to purchase city has enjoyed a long and fascinating comedy, new plays to Shakespeare. featuring acclaimed authors and writers, culture entertainment to the largest bite to eat in the café. tickets visit www.victoriousfestival.co.uk history since first opening in 1856, and at a variety of location across Portsmouth. event of its kind in the South! Featuring Other live venues in the city include The along with the Kings, is one of the few Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery www.portsmouthbookfest.co.uk International artists and a fascinating Portsmouth offers great Christmas Pyramids, the Wedgewood Rooms and working Matcham theatres in the country. is home to fine and decorative art range of panels and exhibitions, Cosplay, entertainment. Enjoy ice skating on real The Gaiety Bar on South Parade Pier, all Portsmouth is the city where the great It is home to cutting edge dance, theatre, galleries with changing displays. Spend VR, Gaming, Live FX, Steampunk and ice in front of the impressive Portsmouth offering great music, comedy and more author Charles Dickens was born and the drama, music, comedy and children’s time visiting the rest of this free museum a Comic City full of merchandise. Guildhall and relax afterwards in the throughout the year. Many pubs also world famous detective Sherlock Holmes performances and events. Both theatres and enjoy tea and cake in the beautiful Alpine Chalet. For some traditional host live gigs and the city’s clubs are great was created. Visit the Dickens’ Birthplace Victorious Festival – the UK’s biggest also offer special behind the scenes tours. gardens. Museum and Portsmouth Museum to metropolitan music festival – will return to entertainment treat yourself to a if you want to dance the night away. pantomime or Christmas show at the In the heart of the city, the majestic Take time to check out the Hotwalls find out more about these iconic figures Southsea Seafront 27 – 29 August, 2021. Portsmouth also has a great film offer with city’s venues. Portsmouth Guildhall is yours to explore Studios creative quarter in Old from British literature. two multiplex cinemas – at Gunwharf Victorious is the biggest festival weekend with a changing programme of events, Portsmouth, where the city’s historic Quays and Port Solent - and a great Gamers! Prepare to get your geek on at in the South this Summer with a carefully More entertainment! exhibitions, tours, workshops and casual fortifications have been transformed into independent film offer including No. 6 Guildhall Games Fest in February at curated line-up that always includes dining at The Square Kitchen. As evening thirteen working studios and a waterfront Cinema and Southsea Film Society. Portsmouth Guildhall with an unbeatable the perfect combination of heavyweight Portsmouth is home to two wonderful falls the Concert Hall hosts some of the dining space. Other galleries in the selection of retro, modern and board headliners, family favourites and up theatres offering a range of dramatic live world’s finest performers with an exciting Please note – event details may change city include the Jack House Gallery, games and a range of VR experiences. and coming talent ensuring there is entertainment, both keen to welcome programme of music, comedy, classical, due to COVID 19 – for full details and the Coastguard Studio and Art Space, Play on every retro games console something for everyone. guests back as soon as they are able. The dance, drama and family shows. updates visit www.visitportsmouth.co.uk Portsmouth.

18 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 19 A shopper’s paradise GUNWHARF QUAYS

Portsmouth is perfect for a Gunwharf Quays, Palmerston Road and Marmion Road spot of retail therapy – ​from waterfront outlet offer high street favourites along with designer bargains to high street shopping chocolatiers, designer jewellery, boutiques favourites, plus independent and furniture – ​as well as a host of cafés vintage and antique choices. Set on Portsmouth’s historic waterfront, and coffee shops. Gunwharf Quays is the UK’s only Albert Road and Castle Road are waterfront shopping outlet where you’ll considered two of the city’s hidden find over 90 famous brands, many gems, packed with independent shops international, with savings of up to 60% selling fashion, furniture, antiques off the original price. As well as men’s and and collectables. women’s fashion, there’s childrenswear, shoes and accessories, sportswear, Hit the high street GIVE YOURSELF homewares, lifestyle, gifting and beauty; in short, a shopper’s paradise. CASCADES SHOPPING CENTRE Head to our city centre where there are over 200 stores and the indoor shopping A DIFFERENT DAY All the big names are here including Hugo Boss, Nike, Mint Velvet, Kate mall Cascades, which is home to some Spade, Reiss, Ted Baker, Paul Smith, of the biggest brand names in the UK. Coach, and The White Company. And A traditional street market takes place Shop, eat and relax on Portsmouth’s historic waterfront, when you’ve shopped till you’ve dropped, from Thursday to Saturday, selling fresh with great savings on over 90 brands. you’ll find an array of cafés, bars and produce, flowers and clothing. restaurants to tempt you. Set sail for Port Solent Southsea shopping With a selection of boutique and branded Southsea offers distinctive stores plus stores, Port Solent marina offers a truly regular street markets including a unique shopping experience. Treat

ALBERT ROAD monthly Hampshire Farmers’ Market yourself to something special or find and weekly Love Southsea markets. the perfect gift for any occasion.

20 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020

5970_GQ_A4 advert.indd 1 20/11/2018 11:17 PORTSMOUTH’S EAT MOST RELAXING WATERSIDE DESTINATION FREE PARKING DRINK UNWIND

SHOP

For more information visit: www.portsolent.com Dining Lifestyle Shopping Boardwalk.Port.Solent ThePortSolent theportsolent Dining Lifestyle Shopping

LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE WITHIN THE 23 MILE VIEW

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE PORTSMOUTHCOMICCON.COM WOW

WATERFRONT CAFÉ Delicious food, stunning views

Open daily between 9.30am and 6.00pm (last orders 5.30pm)

Situated on the ground floor of Emirates Spinnaker Tower, within Gunwharf Quays.

SPINNAKERTOWER.CO.UK

OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 23 Portsmouth Golf Centre

Playzone

Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre

Krazy Kaves

Hayling Ferry

Hotwalls Studios

Portsmouth Distillery

42 996 61 148 29 373 D. BAR (restricted) 57 295 68 154 154 125 58 Based on aerial photography and field survey. While every effort has been 1400 D-Day made to ensure this map is accurate and up to date, neither the publishers 62 Story or the copyright holders accept any liability for loss or inconvenience incurred as a result of any errors. The representation of any footpath, 485 26 146 11 road or track on this map does not necessarily indicate any right of way. 8 Copyright © 2017 Portsmouth City Council. All rights reserved. 5 This work is registered with the UK Copyright Service: Registration No: 331726 Old Portsmouth St Thomas’s Anglican Cathedral, known as the ‘Cathedral of the Sea’, is located Stroll through Old Portsmouth in the on High Street in Old Portsmouth. It footsteps of Vice Admiral Lord Nelson has witnessed war and peace, famous (it is from here that he set off for the marriages, been bombed and rebuilt and Battle of Trafalgar) and view the statue remains a building of greatness and simple Portsmouth’s erected in his honour. Explore the enduring beauty. Discover its fascinating historic fortifications at the entrance history including the D-Day window vibrant past to Portsmouth Harbour including the and the grave of the unknown sailor from Round Tower and the Square Tower – ​ the Mary Rose. Nearby is the Garrison built in 1494 as part fortifications and as Church which has stood in Portsmouth From early beginnings in 1180, for nearly 800 years serving as a medieval a home to the Governor of Portsmouth, Portsmouth has a fascinating hospital, Tudor ammunition store and the tower was converted to a gunpowder history just waiting for you church for the forces since the 1580’s. store in 1584 and restored to its present to discover during your visit. FORT NELSON condition between 1979 and 1986. Take time to treat yourself at a traditional pub or tea room, there are many to choose View the Australian Settlers Memorial, from. Pick up the chain motif in the The Forts recalling the sailing of the First Fleet of pavement and follow the walk through settlers from Spithead to Botany Bay, Old Portsmouth into Gunwharf Quays Discover the national collection of artillery Australia, on 13 May 1787 and visit the and the Emirates Spinnaker Tower – ​or at Fort Nelson, strategically positioned creative quarter Hotwalls Studios. follow the totems along the seafront to with panoramic views atop Portsdown Henry VIII’s Southsea Castle and The Hill. Explore 19 acres of ramparts, outer D-Day Story. For a more in-depth dive fortifications, secret underground tunnels, into Portsmouth’s history join one of and ammunition bunkers at this fully “We love this area. the regular guided walks. restored Victorian fort. Loads of old historic Portsmouth is a city with not one, Portchester Castle provides the perfect buildings, most with but two cathedrals. St John’s Catholic setting for a relaxed, fun, historic day dubious pasts of Cathedral, in the city centre, dates out. The most impressive and best- from 1882. The cathedral was badly preserved of the Roman ‘Saxon Shore’ smuggling, revelry and damaged in one of the major air raids forts, Portchester Castle was originally various other vices!” on Portsmouth during World War Two built in the late 3rd century. The castle’s TRIPADVISOR REVIEW and renovation works were completed commanding location has made it a in 1950. Outside the Cathedral’s west major factor in the Solent’s defences end stands the prominent sculpture of for hundreds of years. St John the Evangelist. For a mix of history and luxury, take a boat trip out to one of the Solent Forts for a very special day out or overnight stay.

Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery

With free admission, Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery is a popular attraction for the whole family and a great place to begin your discovery into Portsmouth’s diverse history. Find out how life in the city has changed from the 17th century to the present day.

Industrial heritage at Eastney

The Beam Engine and Gas Engine houses at Eastney include a pair of classic Boulton Watt beam engines and pumps restored to their original 1887 condition.

PORTSMOUTH MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY Open once a month, free of charge, check online for details.

26 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 PORTCHESTER CASTLE OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 27 The great outdoors

Stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air at Portsmouth’s abundant outdoor spaces. THE MILLENNIUM WALK TOWARDS THE ROUND TOWER HILSEA LINES FORTIFICATIONS

Portsmouth is a relatively small, very flat If you want to extend the route further, many families head as soon as there’s a areas to enjoy away from Southsea seafront. around half an hour, but it’s worth taking wrynecks, wheatears and whinchats. island – ​which makes getting around the you can simply follow the Millennium chance of warm weather. Over at Eastney Hilsea Lines is a firm favourite, with longer to spot the wading birds and other The area also thrums with the sounds city a total breeze. It’s easy to walk from Promenade as it winds through Old there’s gorse and scrub along the beach, in walkways stretching for miles along wildlife that have made their home along of reed and sedge warblers. an area where dogs are allowed year-round. the way. one side of Portsea Island to the other, Portsmouth, before passing the Camber the northern coast of Portsea Island. Youngsters will find plenty to keep them and with great views to enjoy throughout, Docks, Wightlink ferry port and into Portsmouth isn’t just blessed with a beach Following recent flood defence works, There’s more wildlife to be found in the entertained, meanwhile, over at Milton it’s little surprise that simply getting into Gunwharf Quays. Walking the trail and promenades, though, as there’s a huge the pathway that flanks Portsbridge marshlands along the city’s eastern coast. Locks Nature Reserve. The stretch of the great outdoors is high on the agenda couldn’t be easier, as there’s a chain link expanse of open land to enjoy – ​great for ball Creek (the band of water that separates The 123-hectare Farlington Marshes muddy beach and grassland is an ideal for many visitors. motif set into the pavement along its games, BBQs and some good old-fashioned Portsmouth from the mainland and Nature Reserve is at its best during the place to get out and spot creepy crawlies, entire stretch, meaning you don’t have The most popular area for enjoying sunbathing when the weather allows. therefore makes us an island) has been winter months, when migratory wildfowl or to watch the wading birds forage for to keep looking for wayfinders and can Portsmouth’s scenery is the three- Southsea Common is a 100-acre space raised – ​offering greater views of the small take up residence. Those with a keen their dinner. Insects and butterflies are instead just enjoy the route. mile promenade that runs from Old situated right along the seafront – ​ lakes and waterways dotted all around. eye can expect to see thousands of birds, abundant, whilst the shallow waters are Portsmouth to Eastney. Starting at Alternatively, Portsmouth’s southern coast so it’s little wonder the area is a popular Alternatively, you can take cover under including brent geese, wigeons, teals, often teeming with small fish. haunt for visitors and residents alike. It’s avocets, redshanks and dunlins. The lucky the western end, you’ll head past the offers a range of beaches – ​all with their the tree canopy of Foxes Forest, which Don’t think that a city trip is all indoor also home to a tennis centre, skatepark, ones may also get to see short eared owls historic Round and Square Towers, the own distinct characteristics. The Hotwalls is a haven for both dog walkers and off- attractions and smoggy air. There’s much beach volleyball courts and more – ​so there’s hunting over the fields. Royal Garrison Church, two piers, the is an ideal place to watch vessels big and road bikers. Following alongside West, to enjoy when you explore the great much more to do than just go for a stroll! Hovertravel port, Southsea Castle, Canoe small navigate the busy shipping channel, East and Centre Bastions (the scheduled Visitors in spring and summer still have outdoors at the Great Waterfront City. Lake and loads more besides – ​all the whilst Southsea beach (between South However, if you’d prefer to get off the ancient monuments once used as military plenty of birds to spot, among them while with an unbroken view out to sea. Parade Pier and Clarence Pier) is where beaten track, there are plenty of outdoor fortifications) you can walk the line in warblers, redstarts, spotted flycatchers,

28 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 THE MILLENNIUM WALK PASSING THROUGH THE CAMBER DOCKS, OLD PORTSMOUTH OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 29  INEOS TEAM UK

Sport centres

Portsmouth’s Mountbatten Centre is home to an Olympic-sized pool, teaching pool, 150 station state-of-the-art gym, health suite, 8-court sports hall, squash courts, athletics and cycle tracks, and a great programme of activities and events. Next door is Portsmouth Tennis Centre with 4 indoor and 6 outdoor courts. Pyramids is Portsmouth’s largest leisure centre, with masses to do – including a gym, fitness studio and spa, plus great water play for families and a three-level soft play adventure world filled with mazes, climbing nets and ball pits for the under 5s. The water play area has fantastic GREAT SOUTH RUN flumes to ride, as well as a full-sized pool PORTSMOUTH GOLF CENTRE for swimming and aqua aerobics, and a smaller teaching pool for kids. Great golf Canoe Lake Leisure boasts four top- Portsmouth boasts two 18-hole golf specification artificial grass tennis courts, courses – Portsmouth Golf Centre in addition to its newly refurbished grass Sportsmouth and Portsmouth Golf Course. Both and hard courts. The centre also houses are available for pay and play, offering a brand new pavilion and is home to Portsmouth is a city with a outstanding views and affordable sessions great tennis matches including the on great courses. proud sporting heritage, world- Southsea Trophy. class facilities and a calendar of international events - be it road The Peter Ashley Activity Centres are Skate away located in the historic Fort Purbrook running at the Great South Run, and Fort Widley. Activities include horse The promenade along Southsea seafront or home matches at Portsmouth riding, archery, bush craft, mountain is ideal for in-line and roller skating, Football Club. whatever your age. It’s also worth zipping INEOS TEAM UK TRAINING ON BRITANNIA DURING A TESTING SESSION ON THE SOLENT biking, a climbing wall, orienteering, rifle shooting and laser tag. down to Southsea Skatepark on the seafront, which is home to international- standard ramps. In winter enjoy skating on Smooth sailing Great South Run real ice in front of Portsmouth Guildhall.

As the UK’s only island city, Portsmouth The Great South Run is a major beautiful views across the Solent towards Outdoor family fun is a prime destination for water sports of highlight of the Portsmouth sporting the Isle of Wight and Hayling Island. all kinds. The city boasts three marinas: calendar and is recognised as the world’s When the weather’s good you can’t beat The seafront is also home to Southsea Gunwharf Quays, Port Solent and Southsea’s seafront. It offers miles of leading 10 mile running event. This fast, ParkRun, a free, volunteer-led 5k run Southsea Marina and is the home base pebble beaches to explore and gigantic flat course is ideal for setting PBs, whilst open to everyone on Saturday mornings. of Ben Ainslie’s Ineos Team UK. green spaces where you can let off some also taking in some of the city’s best Other running events in the city include steam and enjoy the sea air. The Andrew Simpson Watersports scenery – from the beautiful seafront to the Coastal Half Marathon, Pretty Centre is the first port of call for any Nelson’s iconic HMS Victory. For one Muddy and Race For Life events. There are also tennis courts, adventure enthusiast, with courses and access to weekend, the roads of Southsea and mini golf, a pitch ‘n’ putt green and beach water-based activities including sailing, Portsmouth are opened to athletes of Cycle the city volleyball courts to keep you entertained. rowing, power-boating, kayaking, all ages and abilities taking part in one On warm days the beaches in Southsea canoeing and paddle-boarding. The of the scheduled races over two days. are perfect for a swim or a paddle, Get in the saddle to explore Portsmouth centre also houses a 13-metre outdoor The Great South Run returns to alternatively you can take the children by bike and you certainly won’t be climbing tower; one for the brave! Portsmouth 17 – 18 October 2020. to the under-eight’s splash pool on disappointed. With miles of dedicated Southsea seafront, or the water splash Or try out wakeboarding at the South Whether you prefer to run the streets, cycle paths, Portsmouth is an amazing at Canoe Lake, for some free fun. Coast Wakepark, equipped with a the seafront or the track, Portsmouth city to traverse on two wheels. We also premier cable wake system and offering has an ideal route for you. With miles of host a growing number of cycling events; Hilsea Lido offers outdoor swimming, a wide range of equipment and hire gear. beautiful seafront promenade, Southsea check out the www.visitportsmouth.co.uk diving and a splash pool. Dating back

is a runner’s paradise, where you can website to find out more about these and MOUNTBATTEN CENTRE to the 1930s, the Lido is found in the train with a sea-breeze on your back and all city events. beautiful setting of Hilsea Lines.

30 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 31 The Cathedral of the Sea… TAKE FLIGHT © Paul Gonella © Paul …. for over 800 years people have been inspired and moved by BY HOVERCRAFT its history and beauty SOUTHSEA, PORTSMOUTH TO RYDE, ISLE OF WIGHT Suggested

WONDER www.wedontneedculture.co.uk donation DISCOVER & £5 Rudziak Karl EXPERIENCE OPEN EVERY DAY open 2020 Year of Cathedrals Year of Pilgrimage Guided tours available studios Every third Sunday of the month, 11am – 4pm. Cathedral Shop open Monday-Saturday for day trips, short breaks, attractions, dining, An opportunity to visit our creative studios, see all Visit the Isle of Wight See website for service times and events our artists and makers at work and buy or commission professional pieces. outstanding scenery and beautiful sandy beaches… www.hotwallsstudios.com  @hotwallsstudios 023 9282 3300 www.portsmouthcathedral.org.uk High Street, Old Portsmouth, PO1 2HH @hovertravelltd /hovertravelltd [email protected] www.hovertravel.co.uk

TAXI YOUR LINK TO

Taking you there, Taking you home e Isle of Wight

32 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 33 Portsmouth Cruises Isle of Wight International Port Major operators and cruise lines have Travelling to and from the Isle of Wight Regular ferry services sail to Caen, chosen Portsmouth for its superb couldn’t be easier. Hovertravel operates Travel Cherbourg and Le Havre in Normandy position and impressive facilities, offering a passenger hovercraft from Southsea and St Malo in Brittany, for short breaks customers inspiring destinations aboard to Ryde, the world’s only year-round information and easy onward travel throughout France. beautiful luxury liners. Cruise calls to the hovercraft service. Wightlink operates city offer passengers the opportunity to both a car ferry service from Portsmouth Spanish destinations are Santander and explore the city’s wealth of attractions, to Fishbourne and a foot passenger Bilbao and there are also frequent sailings great shopping, dining and entertainment. catamaran service from Portsmouth to Jersey and Guernsey. If you are coming Harbour to Ryde Pier. to Portsmouth to catch a ferry, why Air not start your holiday early with a day Walking and cycling exploring Portsmouth? Portsmouth is easily accessible by air. Southampton International Airport The city is flat and compact, making (www.southamptonairport.com) is just 22 walking and cycling convenient modes miles away and the major London airports of transport. Park up your vehicle or Gatwick and Heathrow are both 60 miles travel by public transport and explore away with easy rail access to the city. the city on foot. Average walking times from Average walking times from Portsmouth and Southsea train station Portsmouth Harbour train station Portsmouth Guildhall  4 mins Gunwharf Quays  4 mins New Theatre Royal  5 mins Portsmouth Historic Dockyard  6 mins City Centre shopping  6 mins Emirates Spinnaker Tower  8 mins Kings Theatre  23 mins Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery  14 mins Palmerston Road shopping  25 mins Old Portsmouth  15 mins HOVERTRAVEL D-Day Story and Southsea Castle  32 mins Clarence Pier and Seafront Esplanade  24 mins PORTSMOUTH INTERNATIONAL PORT Pyramids  33 mins D-Day Story and Southsea Castle  36 mins Portsmouth is a key Planning your journey Driving and international gateway, Park and Ride With a motorway into the heart of the ideally situated on city, an international port, rail services England’s south coast. Portsmouth enjoys good road direct to London from 90 minutes and connections; the A3(M) puts London international airports close by, access to just over an hour away and the M275 Visit Portsmouth couldn’t be easier, whether connects Portsmouth with the M27 and you are coming to the city from within the rest of Britain’s motorway network. the UK or overseas. Portsmouth’s Park and Ride is accessed direct from the M275 as you drive into Portsmouth the city and offers visitors a quick, easy Escape to the Waterfront by Train Useful sources of travel information and affordable way to visit. Stops include to help you plan your journey: the city centre shopping area and The From the proud, historic warships to the ultra-modern Visitor Information Service Hard for Gunwharf Quays and the eateries at the top of the harbour’s Spinnaker Tower, at the Hard transport hub Historic Dockyard. Portsmouth is home to the past and future of www.visitportsmouth.co.uk www.parkandride.portsmouth.gov.uk  waterfront wonders. [email protected]  023 9282 6722 Rail

www.myjourneyportsmouth.com Travelling to Portsmouth by train is a BOOK IN ADVANCE great option with regular direct services to FOR BIG SAVINGS National Express: London (from 90 mins), the south coast www.nationalexpress.com  and the rest of the UK. Book in advance 08717 818181 and take advantage of regular special offers. MegaBus: Coach www.megabus.com

National Rail Enquiries: Scheduled coaches including National www.nationalrail.co.uk Express and Megabus have routes to  Portsmouth, along with a number of WIGHTLINK ENTERING PORTSMOUTH HARBOUR 08457 484950 tourist coach services.

34 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 35 OSBORNE HOUSE, ISLE OF WIGHT

Submarines and Explore the beautiful to suit all interests to the city of Out and more at Gosport National Parks Chichester with its Roman roots, palace at Fishbourne and fascinating Portsmouth is the ideal base A short ferry ride across Portsmouth Right on our doorstep you’ll find the Tangmere Aviation Museum. about NEW FOREST NATIONAL PARK to explore England’s beautiful Harbour is Gosport. Find out what lurks South Downs National Park, full of south coast. Stay longer and beneath the waves at the Royal Navy fascinating trails to walk or cycle and Take your place discover more in the area. Submarine Museum, or learn about some great adventure pursuits such as at the round table the weapons used by the Royal Navy at horse riding, hot-air ballooning, golf, “The New Forest is Explosion! – ​Museum of Naval Firepower. hang-gliding and paragliding. In Winchester, visit King Arthur’s a magical place. See the fascinating diving exhibits at the legendary round table and the ancient It’s huge and has a The 140,000 acre New Forest National Diving Museum, which was voted one of Winchester Cathedral, the burial place wonderful lake, where the top six family-friendly museums in the Park offers a wealth of places to visit of Jane Austen. Meander down historic you can walk and see UK, or step back in time with a wander and is a haven for cyclists, horse riders streets of the former ancient capital of lots of wildlife.” through the 1642 Living History Village. and walkers. Discover the beautiful open England. Nearby Marwell Zoo, great for heaths, ancient oaks and tall pines then a day out, is inhabited by more than 250 TRIPADVISOR REVIEW Set sail to the meet the famous New Forest ponies as exotic and endangered species. Isle of Wight well as deer and cattle in their natural habitat. Visit Beaulieu for the National Capital attractions Take the short journey across to the Isle Motor Museum, Palace House and of Wight where you will find a wealth Beaulieu Abbey. And don’t forget London is just over 90 of attractions including the famous minutes away by train or coach. Arriving Carisbrooke Castle and Osborne House, Discover Sussex at Waterloo or Victoria you are in easy once home to Queen Victoria. With reach of the London Eye, Imperial War regular hovercraft, catamaran and car ferry Just along the coast is the beautiful Museum, South Bank, Big Ben and sailings with crossing times from only 10 county of West Sussex, rich in history, the rest of the many amazing tourist

ROYAL NAVY SUBMARINE MUSEUM minutes, combining your city break with from the impressive Arundel Castle, attractions, it couldn’t be easier to take ARUNDEL CASTLE a visit to the Island couldn’t be easier. historic houses, racing and museums a day trip to the capital.

36 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 37 HOLIDAY INN PORTSMOUTH Map page 24 Great places Ref B5 Pembroke Road, Portsmouth, PO1 2TA to stay T: 0871 942 9065 E: [email protected] W: www.hiportsmouthhotel.co.uk Portsmouth has a wealth of accommodation – ​you will find everything from top quality luxury hotels to boutique chic, Whether you are in the area for business or leisure, The Holiday Inn plus a superb choice of guest houses and bed and breakfasts. Portsmouth is ideally located just minutes from the city centre and the seafront. The following advertisements showcase a selection of what The newly designed Portsmouth hotel features 173 stylish and is on offer. For more details and further information go to comfortable guest rooms all with modern ensuite bathrooms. www.visitportsmouth.co.uk The stunning ‘open lobby’ dining concept brings together the bar and restaurant into one fl exible space with all day dining, Starbucks Booking conditions co ee, local ales and a range of popular gins. The onsite You Fit Health Club is the perfect place to get active The information contained in this guide is correct at time of and burn o some energy or simply relax and unwind with facilities going to press. Please note that proprietors reserve the right including a gym, swimming pool, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. to amend prices and conditions from those in this guide and/ Our Academy conference centre can accommodate 2 to 200 delegates with our 10 fl exible layout meeting rooms and a dedicated or impose additional conditions, provided they inform you conference host who will be on hand throughout the day to ensure of such conditions before they accept your booking. the day runs smoothly. Explore the home of With onsite car parking and complimentary high-speed Wifi Bombay Sapphire gin Holiday insurance throughout the Holiday Inn is ideal for your stay in Portsmouth. The Bombay Sapphire Distillery Price: From £89 per room per night is less than an hour from Don’t forget to make sure you have insurance to cover any Rooms: 173 En suite: All Portsmouth in Whitchurch, losses you may incur. Even if you are travelling within the Facilities: Hampshire. Enjoy 10% off online bookings of the Self-Discovery UK, insurance costs very little and could save you a great deal. HVARBDWPGKTE Experience Sunday – Friday with the rahsLICbUcf code PORTS10 until 31st March 2021. Book online in advance at distillery.bombaysapphire.com Key to facilities H Facilities for hearing impaired s Electric shaver point

V Facilities for visually impaired L Linen supplied free of charge

A Licensed for alcohol l Linen for hire HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, Map page 24 R Restaurant or café I Iron available PORTSMOUTHGUNWHARF QUAYS Ref B4 B Breakfast C Cots available The Plaza, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, PO1 3FD D Tea/coffee making facilities d Dogs welcome T: 023 9289 4240 W WiFi b Conference facilities E: [email protected] P Off street parking U Lift W: www.hiexportsmouth.co.uk G Ground floor bedrooms c Credit cards accepted

K Children welcome – ​minimum age f Staff speak foreign languages Located at the heart of the hustle and bustle of Gunwharf Quays, the Holiday Inn Express is perfectly located within walking distance T TV in rooms O Cooker from a great array of bars, restaurants and plenty of shops along E Ensuite rooms available F Refrigerator provided with Portsmouth’s main attractions like the Spinnaker Tower and

r Lounge for residents w Laundry Historic Dockyard.

a Air conditioning X Dishwasher The hotels 130 newly refurbished bedrooms ensure a comfortable

h Hairdryer M Microwave stay in a stylish room and the refurbished ‘open lobby’ concept creates a relaxed space to enjoy a drink after a busy day shopping or tuck into a tasty continental breakfast in the morning for a great start to the day with a variety of hot and cold options. With free WiFi, 24 hour Parking and 2 meeting rooms make Important note: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information Holiday Inn Express Gunwharf - Quays your next destination. in this publication is correct, Portsmouth City Council cannot guarantee complete accuracy Price: From £99 per room per night of the information and all liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damages Rooms: 130 En suite: All caused by this publication, is hereby excluded. As changes often occur after press Facilities: date, it is advisable to confirm the information given with the relevant organisation. HVARBDWPKTE All information is for guidance only, and was current as of December 2019. rahsLICbUcf

The Official Portsmouth Visitor Guide is designed by PortCreative, a full-service OPENS 1st April – 1st November 2020 creative agency based on the south coast of England. If you like the visitor guide, Ancient Castle, for more details, then let’s talk. We would love to work with you! Stately Home call 01903 882173 or visit & Gardens www.arundelcastle.org Phone 023 9283 4086 Envelope-open [email protected] LOCATION-ARROW www.portcreative.co.uk

38 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 HOTELS GUEST HOUSES SELF CATERING KEY TO SYMBOLS ON PAGE 46 HOTELS GUEST HOUSES SELF CATERING KEY TO SYMBOLS ON PAGE 40 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 39 PORTSMOUTH MARRIOTT HOTEL

Map page 24 IBIS PORTSMOUTH Ref C4

Winston Churchill Avenue, Portsmouth, PO1 2LX T: 023 9264 0000 E: [email protected] W: www.accorhotels.com

Located in the centre of the beautiful city of Portsmouth, we’re the perfect base from which to enjoy events and attractions in the city and surrounding areas. Marvel at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, challenge yourself in the Great South Run or fi nd harmony at the Victorious music festival and much more – all from the comfort and convenience that Ibis Portsmouth Centre provides. We look forward to making you feel welcome. Price: From £60 – £179 per room per night Rooms: 144 En suite: All Facilities: ARBDWPKTErhLICdbUcf

Map page 25 IBIS BUDGET PORTSMOUTH Ref F4

Unit 4, Fratton Way, Portsmouth, PO4 8SL T: 023 9264 0000 E: [email protected] W: www.accorhotels.com

Take your time enjoying a tasty continental breakfast bu et with our relaxed noon check-out. Choose from triple, double or twin rooms to suit you, chill out in our spacious, well-decorated lobby area and stay connected while you’re away from home with free fi bre Wi-Fi throughout the building. The hotel is close to the city centre of Portsmouth and in close proximity to the beach, shopping and nightlife of the town. With the friendliest team in the south, our a ordable Portsmouth hotel o ers all the mod cons, pet-friendly and 120 bedrooms with Sweet Beds and en-suite power showers. We look forward to making you feel welcome. Price: From £35 – £120 per room per night Southampton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 4SH Rooms: 120 En suite: All T: 023 9238 3151 E: [email protected] Facilities: W: HVABDWPGKTE www.marriott.com

rahLICdUcfM £5 fee Discover the striking beauty of England’s South Coast with a visit to Portsmouth Marriott Hotel. Map page 24 Conveniently located near both the train and the motorway, and just ROYAL MARITIME CLUB & HOTEL Ref B3 a short distance from popular landmarks such as Spinnaker Tower, we o er an excellent backdrop for business trips and family holidays. 75 – 80 Queen Street, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3HS Sophisticated rooms and suites, high-speed Wi-Fi and blackout T: 023 9282 4231 E: [email protected] curtains, as well as co ee makers and fl at-screen TVs. W: www.royalmaritimeclub.co.uk Enjoy a meal at Cast Iron Bar & Grill, our hotel restaurant, or order The Royal Maritime Club & Hotel is one of the oldest and most historic 24-hour room service. hotels in Portsmouth. The hotel is steeped in maritime history and Additional 4-star perks include a tranquil on-site spa and a leisure o ers 100 en-suite comfortable bedrooms and a whole host of leisure club with a gym. facilities. The Royal Maritime Club & Hotel is located just a fi ve minute walk away from the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and other historic Plan an event in one of our easily confi gurable function rooms, some city attractions, as well as the city’s popular waterside shopping and of which feature warm natural light, or consider hosting an outdoor leisure destination, Gunwharf Quays. event in our garden in the warmer months. • 100 en-suite comfortable bedrooms We hope you’ll take time to explore attractions including Portsmouth’s • Swimming pool with hydrojets (fully accessible), sauna and spa pool Historic Naval Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays, too. Plan your UK • Snooker and skittle alleys getaway with us today at the 4-star Portsmouth Marriott Hotel. • Horatio’s Restaurant, Compass Café and Victory Bar • Function rooms; suitable for conferences and licenced for weddings Price: From £89 per room per night Price: £100– £150 per room per night Rooms: 174 En suite: All Rooms: 100 En suite: All Facilities: Facilities: HVARBDWPKTE ARBDWPGKTErhICbUc ahsICdbUcfF

40 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 HOTELS GUEST HOUSES SELF CATERING KEY TO SYMBOLS ON PAGE 40 HOTELS GUEST HOUSES SELF CATERING KEY TO SYMBOLS ON PAGE 40 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 41 VILLAGE HOTEL PORTSMOUTH

Map page 24 ESK VALE GUEST HOUSE Ref E7

39 Granada Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO4 0RD T: 023 9286 2639 E: [email protected] W: www.eskvaleguesthouse.co.uk

Just a 2 minute walk from Southsea beach and local attractions. Our aim is to o er you a warm welcome, a pleasant stay and a good old English breakfast to start the day. Price: £35–£100 per room per night, or £35–£60 per person per night Rooms: 8 En suite: 6 Facilities: HBDWPGTErhsLI

Map page 24 REES HALL Ref C5

Southsea Terrace, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3AP T: 023 9284 4884 E: [email protected] W: www.eventportsmouth.co.uk

Rees Hall is a modern building located on Southsea seafront with views across Southsea Common and the Solent. It is also a short distance from Gunwharf Quays and the Historic Dockyard. The award-winning Rees Hall provides the ideal venue for a leisure break or business trip, with a wide range of quality comfortable en-suite rooms, two guest lounges, bar and quiet courtyard garden. Lakeshore Drive, Portsmouth, PO6 3FR • Full English breakfast and free WiFi included. T: 023 9200 6245 E: [email protected] • Coach parties welcome. W: www.village-hotels.com • Conference facilities available. • Rooms available from June to September. Village Hotel Club Portsmouth has 153 super stylish hotel rooms, Price: From £52 – £84 per room per night as clever as they are comfortable, with big TVs, handy gadgets and Rooms: 226 En suite: All refreshing drench showers. Upgrade to a Club Room for even more Facilities: extras, including exclusive toiletries, Nespresso co ee machine and HVRBDWGEr free Gym access. sLICbUcfw Village Gym is a huge state of the art health club with the latest Technogym cardio equipment and a choice of award-winning classes such as BodyPump, BodyCombat, BodyAttack Mind and Body, Village’s HIIT class ‘Burn’, the ultimate calorie-burning session, HOME FROM HOME PORTSMOUTH and classes by Les Mills©. And if all that sounds too energetic, you can enjoy a gentle swim in our 20 metre pool, followed by a steam Various locations in Southsea and Gunwharf Quays and sauna. T: 07763 803554 E: [email protected] W: Our Pub & Grill is at the heart of Village Portsmouth, with a vibrant, www.homefromhomeportsmouth.com inviting, friendly atmosphere. Watch live sport on giant HD screens, enjoy ice cold beers and a great choice of wines and cocktails. Tuck We o er apartments in the best locations across Portsmouth and in to one of our famous, juicy burger stacks and dare to take on our Southsea, including sea views, serving a range of guests from around devilishly hot wings. Or, if you prefer a delicious healthy option, try our the world; holiday makers, working people, professionals and students. succulent skewers or halloumi bowls. We also o er property services to investors and other landlords. We even have our own in-house Starbucks, so you can wake up to Price: From £80 – £350 per unit per night your favourite co ee and tasty snack! Units: 9 Sleeping capacity: 1 – 9 Facilities:

And if you’re visiting Village Portsmouth at the weekend, then you’re Some in for an extra treat. Our hugely popular Tribute and Party nights are DWPKTErhsLICdUcOFwXM units great fun. Sing and dance the night away to all your favourites before heading upstairs for a great night’s sleep in your big comfy bed. Map page 25 Village Portsmouth is conveniently located just o the M27 motorway, LAKESIDE APARTMENTS Ref F6 Quiet, fully furnished self-catering apartments, great location for and just a short drive from Portsmouth’s city centre. visiting all the fantastic sites of Portsmouth. Five-minute walk 5 Helena Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO4 9RH from the Seafront, Canoe Lake, Museums – Ideal base for all Booking your stay at Village couldn’t be easier on our easy to use T: E: things nautical. website, or via our app, downloadable from the App Store or 07810 436981 / 023 9282 0690 [email protected] Google Play. W: www.lakesidesouthsea.com Open all year round, Pets welcomed, all major credit cards accepted. Price: From £45 – £180 per room per night Price: From £250 – £360 per unit per week Rooms: En suite: Weekly bookings Friday – Friday. 153 All Units: 6 Sleeping capacity: 2/+child Facilities: Facilities: Non-smoking establishment. HVARBDWPKTE DWPGKTELICdcFwM rahsLIbUcf

42 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 HOTELS GUEST HOUSES SELF CATERING KEY TO SYMBOLS ON PAGE 40 HOTELS GUEST HOUSES SELF CATERING KEY TO SYMBOLS ON PAGE 40 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020 43 PORTSMOUTH CITY OF MUSEUMS Charles Dickens’ Portsmouth Museum Birthplace Museum

www.charlesdickensbirthplace.co.uk www.portsmouthcitymuseums.co.uk

Cumberland House Southsea Castle Find out more Natural History Museum about Portsmouth’s incredible history by joining one of the city’s regular

guided walks www.portsmouthnaturalhistory.co.uk www.southseacastle.co.uk

Full listing available on Free entry to Portsmouth Museum, Cumberland House visitportsmouth.co.uk Natural History Museum, Southsea Castle and a small admission fee for Charles Dickens’ Birthplace, please see www.charlesdickensbirthplace.co.uk for details. We shared everything VISITOR INFORMATION we had. Portsmouth’s award-winning visitor offers available to you. We can offer information service is here to offer you advice on group deals at hotels and a warm welcome and help you make the attractions, coach parking, or tours and most of your time in this vibrant city. experiences that will make your visit that Staff can help with: little bit different. Cocoa. • information on local, regional and Find out more about Portsmouth’s national attractions and events incredible history by joining one of • tickets for Portsmouth attractions – the city’s regular guided walks. with up to 10% discount Book a Greeter for groups of six or less Laughter. • theatre, ferry and coach trip tickets or a Tourist Guide* for larger groups • accommodation (*fee charged). • local gifts, books and souvenirs For more information, contact the visitor Heartbreak. If you’re organising a visit for 10 or information service. Call 023 9282 6722, more people to Portsmouth, make sure go to www.visitportsmouth.co.uk, you check out the great group rates and or email [email protected]

Follow us on Twitter Follow Portsmouth Experience Portsmouth Visit The D-Day Story and discover the for the latest news and on Facebook.com/ on YouTube – ​search for personal stories behind the epic day. events @visitportsmouth portsmouththewaterfrontcity ‘Visit Portsmouth’

Photograph 5254) (B © IWM theddaystory.com

44 OFFICIAL PORTSMOUTH VISITOR GUIDE | 2020