Countryside

Though the city and coast is what attracts many people to Portsmouth, there’s plenty of countryside around the city and in the wider area to get away from it all, too.

The New Forest and South Downs National Parks are both a short drive away, offering country walks, small villages and wonderful scenery. Closer to home you have the Queen Elizabeth National Park just a 20 minute drive from the city, with miles of walking and cycling routes of varying lengths and difficulty levels. There’s also the popular Butser Hill, offering views out all the way to the coast.

Closer to home still is the area around Portsdown Hill, where you can enjoy walks with a spectacular view over Portsmouth and the surrounding area below. Or, take a visit to Staunton Park, where you can see farm animals or take a leisurely walk around the grounds.

Plus, there are all the parks, common areas and woodlands around Portsea Island to enjoy, each with their own walkways, bridlepaths and rich habitats just waiting to be explored.