Student playing frisbee on the Common

After a year of lectures, revision and late nights, exam season is nearly over, and now is the time to relax

2 min read

After a year of lectures, revision and late nights, exam season is nearly over, and now is the time to relax. Whether you're staying in Portsmouth for the summer or just have a few days or weeks before heading home, it will soon be the perfect time to decompress and make the most of the city (or you might be lucky to have finished your exams already). Here are 5 fun ways to celebrate the end of your exams.

Students enjoying Southsea beach

1. Visit the seafront 

Reconnect with nature with a relaxing walk along Southsea Seafront. Whether you want to take in the sea breeze or unwind on the beach with a book, there’s nothing like the calming sound of the waves to help you reset. Don’t forget to treat yourself to an ice cream!

Close up of Clarence Pier Sign

2. Clarence Pier 

Just a short walk from campus, Clarence Pier offers old-school seaside fun. From the arcades to the funfair rides and crazy golf, there’s plenty to keep you and your friends entertained for an afternoon. If you’re feeling nostalgic, top it off with a portion of traditional fish and chips.

Student playing frisbee on the Common

3. Have a BBQ with your mates 

Celebrate with a chilled BBQ on Southsea Common. It's a great way to gather your housemates, course friends, or society. Portsmouth City Council has designated BBQ zones – just make sure to check their website for exact locations and always dispose of your rubbish and BBQ responsibly. Don’t forget a frisbee or speaker for some tunes!

Students strolling through Old Portsmouth

4. Explore the city 

Now that you’ve got some free time, take a day to properly explore Portsmouth. Head up the Spinnaker Tower, grab lunch at a café you’ve never tried before, wander through Old Portsmouth, or just take a different route to the seafront. 

Student climbin at Ravelin Sports Centre

5. Try something completely new

With no revision timetable to stick to, now’s the perfect time to try something new. Try out pottery painting, give paddleboarding a go, or try climbing at Ravelin. Doing something new is a great way to have fun and connect with others.