Book a break: Portsmouth is your next holiday destination

Centuries of history... World-class attractions... Awe-inspiring museums... Waterfront outlet shopping... Portsmouth has the lot. You'd be hard pushed to fit everything into just a weekend, let alone a day - which is why you should book in Portsmouth as your next short break destination.

   

Stay longer - discover more

There's a lot packed into Portsea Island. Around each corner you'll find something new - from heroes of the British Navy at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, to the truly iconic Spinnaker Tower. There's Henry VIII's Southsea Castle, and the last surviving Landing Craft Tank from World War II. Or how about big-name designer brand outlets, or food and drink from right across the world?

There's all this and more to explore on your next short break.

   

Accommodation to adore

First off, somewhere to stay. There are hotels, boutique B&Bs and self-catering options to suit all tastes and budgets.

All your favourite chains are here, with the Village, Marriott, Holiday Inn, Travelodge, Ibis and more set up at locations right across the city. In addition there's an enormous selection of independent hotels offering something just a little different.

The Queens Hotel is a grand old building situated right at the edge of Southsea Common. Or take your pick from the selections on offer from the Mercer Collection - a group of luxury boutique hotels with just a handful of rooms apiece.

Rather be left to your own devices with a self-catering base to call your own? Options include breathtaking penthouses with views across the Solent, or quirky townhouses in the thick of the action.

Our Accommodation listings will provide everything you need to book the perfect place to enjoy all that Portsmouth has to offer.

   

Time to explore

With accommodation sorted you have time to fit in everything you want to tick off in Portsmouth.

History buff?
Make a beeline for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and The D-Day Story - each offering fascinating ships and amazing artefacts that tell of Britain's naval might and the central role the city has played during the biggest moments in history.
An Ultimate Explorer ticket to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard gets you access to a whole host of museums - including The Mary Rose, where you can now go through an air lock to be in the same room as Henry VIII's beloved warship.
You also get to head out on the water on a harbour tour to see the current crop of naval vessels in port. There really is so much to see and do you'll want to allow a day to get around it all.

Shopaholic?
Take a trip to Gunwharf Quays, where over 90 retail outlets offer 60% off RRP on some big brands. There's clothing, beauty, homeware and much more, situated along the water's edge.
In addition, Gunwharf Quays is also home to more than 30 bars and restaurants - so you can rest and recharge after a day at the shops. There are coffee houses, a pub and some of your favourite restaurants - many of which overlook the marina.

Explorer?
Take a trip around the city's top attractions - starting at the Spinnaker Tower. A true emblem of Portsmouth, the tower offers three view decks looking out over city, coast and country. On a clear day you'll be able to see for up to 23 miles - with the view encompassing the Portsmouth cityscape, historic dockyard, Isle of Wight, South Downs and more.

Of course, these are just some of the top things to enjoy on your short break in Portsmouth . See our Attractions page for more information and to start planning your itinerary.

   

Food and drink

When it comes to food and drink you can take a trip around the world without leaving Portsea Island! Whether you're in the mood for British, French, Italian, Indian, Chinese, Mexican, Japanese, Greek, Turkish, Lebanese, or countless others, you'll find something great to eat.

Gunwharf Quays has all the big-name restaurants, so is the place to go if you have a trusted favourite. Alternatively, try out Albert Road or Osborne Road for something a bit different. Here you'll find independent restaurants serving top-quality, authentic dishes from across the globe.

There are also some highly rated and rewarded restaurants - from The Briny which has recently achieved an AA Rosette, to the King Street Tavern, holder of a Good Food Award Gold Seal, and Restaurant 27, which comes recommended in the Michelin Guide.

There's a similar abundance of choice when it comes to your drink options. The Portsmouth Distillery Co offers gin and rum from its base in historic fortifications on the city's southeastern edge. Alternatively, sample some of the local craft beers from Urban Island, Make Make, Staggeringly Good, Irving and Southsea Brewing Co. Offering everything from classic styles to innovative new creations, they're a must for craft beer lovers.

If you're more in the mood for good coffee and indulgent sweet treats we've got you covered. Hideout Coffee sells delicious and freshly made doughnuts, or try out the Tenth Hole or Parade Tearooms for cakes that have gone down in local legend. You won't be disappointed.

Plan your foodie odyssey with our Food and Drink listings.

   

Evening entertainment

With your evening free it's time to sample some of the city's nightlife. Check the event listings before you travel to see what's on and start planning for your stay.

If theatre is your thing then you're spoilt for choice. The Kings Theatre brings touring West End shows, household-name comedians and some huge bands to central Southsea. In the city centre you'll find the New Theatre Royal, where big names fill the listings alongside quirky family shows and emerging talents.

What's more, eminent architect Frank Matcham had a hand in designing both these theatres - so you can be sure they're not just great at what they do but stunningly beautiful to look at as well.

Plus, don't forget the Groundlings Theatre, housed in an old Georgian school, and welcoming local productions, interactive events and plenty more besides.

The biggest names head to Portsmouth Guildhall - its hallowed stage having hosted everyone from The Beatles and Pink Floyd to Arctic Monkeys and Oasis. The Guildhall is also where you can see huge touring shows of comedy, dance and drama - plus a year-round programme of special events and festivals.

   

Still searching for inspiration? Our Explore section contains all you need to get inspired for your next trip to the coast and learn more about Portsmouth - the UK's only island city.