Southsea

Nestled on the southern side of Portsmouth – with views across to the Isle of Wight – the coastal resort of Southsea has traditional British waterfront charm, with a fresh air of trendiness brought by the increasing number of independent shops and eateries that now reside in this special slice of seaside England. 

There are few destinations that could rival such a cool coastal culture combined with a history dating back to the first ships to leave British shores.  Southsea looks out upon the Solent where sea forts are passed by ferries, cruise liners, Royal Navy ships, and even Ben Ainslie’s INEOS Team UK racing sailing yachts.

If you can tear yourself away from the ever-changing and lively views across the water, there is much to explore upon the shore in Southsea – delve into the area’s vibrant character and enjoy beach days, history hunting, attractions, and events.

 

Things to do in Southsea

Southsea’s long and beautiful stretch of shingle is enough to satisfy a sun-filled day – as a well-kept secret, there will always be space for you sunbathe on the pebbles at Southsea or take to the water to try water sports like SUP.

Walk, cycle, or skate along Southsea’s beautiful beach promenade or relax on the green space of Southsea Common (once awarded Warburton's Best Picnic Spot) home to beach volleyball courts, Southsea Tennis Courts, pitch and putt and Southsea Skatepark – one of the oldest and most iconic Skateparks in the UK.

Have some traditional seaside fun at the Clarence Pier Amusement Park and South Parade Pier, or go on an undersea safari at the Blue Reef Aquarium.

Explore the underground passages of Southsea Castle, built by Henry VIII and the spot from where he witnessed his flagship, the Mary Rose, tragically sink.  For more history, hear the unique personal stories behind the Allied Invasion of 1944 at The D-Day Story.

Discover the independent shopping heaven of Albert Road – bustling with quirky and independent traders selling retro clothes and vintage treasures, alongside one-of-a-kind restaurants, hip bars and cafes.

Events in Southsea

A natural outdoor events space, Southsea Common plays host to a whole range of big events throughout the summer including Victorious Festival with headline music performances, the Portsmouth International Kite Festival filling the sky with colourful creations, and the colourful celebration of Portsmouth Pride.

The Southsea Bandstand fills the air with cheerful music on many weekends throughout the summer, and the Great South Run begins and completes its 10 mile route at the seafront every October.

Places to Eat in Southsea

Southsea has a proud café culture, and you will arguably find the best coffee in the UK amongst the plentiful hipster coffee shops like Southsea Coffee Co. and Hunter Gatherer.

If afternoon tea is more your cuppa, after putting your way around the pitch and putt golf course, reward yourself with one of the delicious cakes from The Tenth Hole Tea Rooms.

Seek out some traditional fish and chips in one of the many chippies like The Fisherman’s Kitchen, or combine your meal with some sweet sounds at record store Pie and Vinyl.

On the waterfront, enjoy dinner with a view at The Briny, The Beach Club and Southsea Beach Café and for fine dining sample the cuisine of Restaurant 27 or Montparnasse.

Where to stay in Southsea

Many of Southsea’s iconic Edwardian buildings have been lovingly restored into boutique hotels with The Queens Hotel, The Clarence Boutique Hotel and Somerset House Boutique Hotel all great choices to rest your head for the night.  There is also a great selection of budget friendly accommodation.

Close to Southsea

Nearby Portsmouth is a pleasant 40 min walk along the seafront from Southsea via the cobbled streets of Old Portsmouth (well worth a stop at one of the historic smuggler’s pubs). In Portsmouth, there are world class attractions to explore including the iconic Spinnaker Tower, outlet shopping at Gunwharf Quays, and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – home to the HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the Mary Rose.

Just five minutes by ferry from Southsea Marina you can reach the beautiful beaches of Hayling Island.