One of the best things about our city is how central and well-connected we are.
If you fancy a change of scenery this summer, it's easy to hop on a train, bus or ferry to explore lush woodlands, historic villages, and quirky towns.
Here are some great places to visit for the day, all under 90 minutes away by public transport.
1 | Bournemouth
There are countless things to do in Bournemouth, whether it’s visiting the sharks and turtles at the Oceanarium, trying some new escape rooms, or making friends at a cat cafe, there’s something for everyone!
Bournemouth’s big sandy beach is very popular in the summer, and has been ranked the 5th best in Europe, according to Tripadvisor.
Getting there: 1 hr 25 by train
2 | Brighton
Brighton’s quirky and vibrant city centre makes for a jam-packed day trip from Portsmouth. Roam the North Laine, full of independent shops and cafes selling everything from mouth-watering gelato to vegan friendly shoes.
Take a stroll down the seafront to check out the famous Palace Pier or take a ride on the i360 viewing tower for brilliant views across the city.
And if you have time, tour the Royal Pavilion - a fantastical palace built for a royal prince who liked to party.
Getting there: 1 hr 15 mins by train
3 | Brockenhurst
The perfect spot from which to explore the beautiful New Forest. Get the train from Portsmouth to the large village of Brockenhurst, situated in the middle of the Forest.
You can go hiking, biking (take your own, or hire a bike there), or stay around the village itself. See if you can spot the wild ponies and cattle, or follow the South Taste trail - a 7 mile trail of pubs and tea rooms!
Getting there: 1 hr 10 mins by train
4 | Emsworth
This old fishing village is a short walk from a train station that connects directly to Portsmouth. Visit for scenic walks around our Hampshire coastlines, quaint seaside cottages and houses, and the chance to browse independent shops.
Lovely cafes to stop for lunch and a coffee include Driftwood.
Getting there: 20 mins by train
5 | Hayling Island
Just over the water is Hayling Island, with a 5 miles long seafront - said to be the original home of windsurfing.
On a breezy day you can watch enthusiasts taking advantage of the conditions - or you can hire your own kayak or stand up paddle board. The area also has a rich military history, which you can explore by taking the World War 2 Heritage trail.
Getting there: 5 mins by ferry from Eastney
6 | Portchester
Portchester Castle is one of the best preserved Roman forts in Northern Europe built in the 3rd century. Walk around the grounds for free, or pay to enter the keep and the museum.
From here you can go for walks around the scenic Portchester village, or along the coastline to the fantastic Salt Cafe for some lunch - keep going and you can get the train back to Portsmouth from Fareham.
Getting there: 18 mins by train
7 | Rowlands Castle
This village, a short train ride from Portsmouth is a lovely place to explore local woodlands that used to be part of the Forest of Bere. The village green offers places to stop for a drink or bite to eat, including The Bumblebee Cafe and several pubs.
You can also walk to the historic Stansted Park from here, to check out the house, arboretum and tea room.
Getting there: 21 mins by train
8 | Ryde
Hop on a ferry to check out the Isle of Wight. Explore Ryde town’s shops and restaurants, and then enjoy your evening on the sandy beach, with fab views of Portsmouth, before taking the ferry back.
Don’t forget your Wightlink student discount!
Getting there: 45 mins by ferry
9 | Winchester
Winchester is a city full of history just waiting to be explored. When you see the wonderful historic streets and architecture, you won’t be surprised to hear that The Crown, Wolf Hall, and The Da Vinci Code are just some of the tv shows and films made here.
Winchester Cathedral is a wonderful place to start, and is among the largest of its kind in Northern Europe.
And if you're visiting in winter, make sure you time your visit to take advantage of the legendary Christmas market.
Getting there: 50 mins by train
More things to do in Portsmouth
9 secret al fresco places to eat and drink in Portsmouth
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Need weekend plans? Check out this blog for cheap, student-friendly days out!
10 of the best breakfast places in Portsmouth
Here’s a countdown of the top 10 breakfast and brunch spots that you can only find here in Portsmouth - as chosen by our students.
