Get outside in the UK's only island city
Top outdoor spots
From the scenic Southsea Beach to the historic South Parade Pier, there's no shortage of stunning locations to enjoy the fresh sea air, including:
- Southsea Beach: perfect for seaside strolls and sunset views.
- South Parade Pier: a fun mix of arcades, events, and seaside charm.
- Victoria Park: a green escape near campus for picnics and peace.
- Canoe Lake: a popular park close to the seafront.
- Baffins Pond: great for wildlife spotting.
- Hilsea Lines: ideal for walking and getting fresh air in the north of the city.
Further afield
Portsmouth has plenty of neighbouring places to explore and connect with nature. Some of these include:
- New Forest National Park: another great place for walking and hiking in nature.
- Portsdown Hill: perfect for an aerial view of Portsmouth or to watch the sunset.
of
Southsea Beach
South Parade Pier
Victoria Park
Canoe Lake
New Forest National Park
Portsdown hill
Need more inspiration?
Try the Student Seafront Challenge
A trail that takes you to ten of the most iconic places across our island city, including places like:
- Bath Square
- The Round Tower
- South Parade Pier
- Canoe Lake
- The Rose Gardens
Michaela: Hi guys, my name is Michaela, and today I'm going to be doing the Portsmouth Seafront Challenge. I’ll be taking you to 10 places along the seafront of Portsmouth. So come along and join me!
[Music]
Michaela: This is Bath Square, the historic tip of old Portsmouth. It used to be known as Spice Island because sailors hung out here when they wanted a spicy adventure.
[Music]
Michaela: This is the Round Tower, built in 1418. Its formidable structure was designed to defend Portsmouth Harbor and stop French ships from successfully mounting raids on the city.
[Music]
Michaela: This is the Square Tower. Originally the residence of Henry VII's military governor, this historic building has since served as a Navy ammunition store, a meat store, a semaphore tower, and even a wedding venue.
[Music]
Michaela: This is the Royal Garrison Church, dating back to around 1212. The building's roof was destroyed by a Nazi firebomb raid in 1941. Its stained glass windows depict scenes from World War II and the church’s earlier history.
[Music]
Michaela: This is Clarence Pier, one of the largest amusement parks on the south coast. This particular amusement park is unusual because it extends along the coast rather than out to sea.
[Music]
Michaela: This is Southsea Castle. Henry VIII demanded this fort be built to defend England from invasion. It was here in 1545 that the Mary Rose sank during an attack by French invaders.
[Music]
Michaela: This is the Rock Garden, sheltered from coastal breezes but just a stone’s throw away from the promenade. This little haven of calm dates back to the 1920s, when rock gardens were very popular.
[Music]
Michaela: This is South Parade Pier. Whether you want a place to eat, shop, fish, or just enjoy the spectacular views, this is the place for you.
[Music]
Michaela: This is Canoe Lake, a peaceful park set slightly back from the seafront. It’s the perfect place for a picnic. Its white swan pedalos perfectly reflect the park’s role as a nursery home for swans.
[Music]
Michaela: This is the Southsea Rose Garden. Built on the site of an old fort, you can now find a variety of beautifully colored roses here.
[Music]
Michaela: I hope you guys enjoyed the video and learned a little something about the historic sights on Portsmouth's seafront. I really enjoyed the day, so I challenge you to do the Seafront Challenge!
Hear from our students
Hear why our students love Portsmouth’s outdoor spaces.
“My favourite place in Portsmouth is the pier, its great in summertime with a group of people.”
Cartier Charles, BSc (Hons) Property Development
“My favourite place to walk/run is the seafront – the sunrises and sunsets are amazing."
Holly Baker, BSc (Hons) Marine Environmental Science
“I like Victoria Park and seeing all the animals.”
Leah Jackson, BSc (Hons) Criminology and Forensic Studies
Experience Portsmouth Virtually
Can’t visit in person? Explore our beaches, parks and green spaces from wherever you are.
