2023 - Year of the Coast

2023 is the Year of the Coast, which encourages more people to explore, embrace and enjoy all there is to do at the water's edge. England's coast is more than 185 million years old and is celebrated for being among the most diverse in the world. This is especially true in Portsmouth, where within just a few short miles you can see everything from picturesque harbours to active naval bases and thriving nature reserves.

For a holiday exploring the best that England's coast has to offer, look no further than Portsmouth - it is, after all, the UK's only island city.

A year-round destination

The Portsmouth coastline attracts visitors all year round, not least because it's where our biggest attractions are based. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is (as you'd expect) right by the coast, but so too are Gunwharf Quays, Spinnaker Tower and The D-Day Story - among many others.

All these are open 12 months a year, so you can go back through generations of naval history, take in outstanding coastal views, or bag a big-brand bargain, whenever it is you visit.

At Gunwharf Quays there's more than just shopping, with more than 30 bars, restaurants and coffee shops to try out (not to mention the multiplex cinema, bowling alley, contemporary art gallery, miniport and more).

Meanwhile, the Ultimate Explorer ticket at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is valid for an entire year, so you can keep coming back time and again.

Fresh air and exercise

There's nothing better than getting some fresh sea air - be that during the warm summer months or on a bracing winter walk. Along Portsmouth's coast you can get plenty of fresh air and exercise, everything from a gentle stroll to some white-knuckle activities.

From Old Portsmouth to Eastney you can take a 3.5 mile (5.75km) walk along the seafront, never being more than a stone's throw from the water's edge. Please note however, this walk may look a little different to how it has done in recent years or take a slightly different route, due to the ongoing Southsea Coastal Scheme that is improving the area's sea defences.

Of course, it's not just about walking Southsea Seafront. The Gosport to Portsmouth section of the England Coast Path is now open - a 29 mile (47km) trail that starts near the Browndown Site of Scientific Special Interest and heads around the entirety of Portsmouth Harbour, finishing up at the Round Tower. Along the way it takes in Portchester Castle, historic harbours and considerable wildlife interest - as well as some excellent panoramic views.

If you'd rather something a little more energetic, there's plenty to get the blood flowing. Try out sailing or stand up paddleboarding at the Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre, or if you're already experienced why not take one of their courses to get an official qualification? Alternatively, South Coast Wakepark offers high-energy wakeboarding for beginners and pros alike.

Food and drink

There's more to the coast than just sticks of rock - with cuisine from across the entire globe all available here along the water's edge.

It'd be remiss not to start with that old seaside classic - fish and chips. Whether you want the humble battered cod, or would prefer to try something a little more fancy, Portsmouth certainly has everything you could need.

Deep Blue on South Parade Pier puts you closer to the sea than anywhere else. Even at low tide the restaurant is beyond the water's edge, so you really do get the full coastal experience.

Just along the way is The Briny, an AA Rosette-winning family restaurant serving up quality seafood - with the menu including trout, oysters, salmon, crab, mussels and more. Or, head down to Old Portsmouth where Abarbistro serves up tempting seafood and great wines right where the boats bring in their haul (or try out the nearby fish market for the freshest catches to cook yourself).

Alternatively, why not take a tour of global cuisine, without venturing from the coast? At Gunwharf Quays you'll find your favourite the big-name restaurants - with many offering tables overlooking the harbour. There's everything from Italian to Japanese, British, French, Mexican, Portuguese, Vietnamese and more.

Or, head along Southsea seafront where you'll also find Southsea Beach Café and The Beach Club overlooking the water, or the likes of Tenth Hole and Parade Tearooms just a stone's throw away.

Get hands on

Fancy getting a bit more involved on your next trip to England's coast? You're in luck, as there are a host of activities to pique all interests, right on the water's edge.

The Hotwalls Studios is a great place to start. The historic fortifications of Old Portsmouth are today a thriving hub of creative activity, where local designer-makers create one off items you won't find on the high street. As well as their items for sale, many offer hands-on craft sessions so you can take home more than just a memento of your trip, but a new hobby as well.

Southsea has not one but two piers, offering all the traditional seaside activities - from fairground rides to ice cream stalls and arcade games. Plus, the Treasure Island Adventure Golf course has been entertaining young and old for generations.

All this and more is available right along the coast in Portsmouth - so what better time than 2023 to explore life at the water's edge?

Find out more about 2023 - Year of the Coast on the England's Coast website.