My winter survival guide: light up your winter in Portsmouth

As the chilly sea breeze begins to bite in November, the skies over Portsmouth draw the curtain on the day as early as 4.00pm, marking the start of the winter season.

For many students new to the area, this period is not only an academic challenge but also a delicate dance with the climate and their own moods. Damp sea winds, short daylight hours, and looming assignments deadlines can easily lead to winter blues.

I have carefully prepared this survival guide for you. To act as a thoughtful friend, helping you uncover the beauty hidden in the cold season, ensuring your winter days are not only warm and comfortable but also filled with memories to treasure.

Create Your Warm Haven: Essential Cosy Items

In the damp cold of a Portsmouth winter, creating a warm personal space is especially important. Beyond the usual hot water bottles and thick blankets, a few thoughtful items can elevate your comfort.

First, I recommend a USB-heated desk pad. It not only keeps your workspace warm but also ensures your fingertips stay cosy while typing or reading. When choosing one, pay attention to size: too large and it takes up valuable desk space; too small and it won’t cover your working area effectively.

Next, for me, a smart temperature-control mug warmer is a game-changer. This simple gadget keeps your hot drink at an ideal 55–65°C. So you’ll never have to worry about your drink going cold mid-inspiration.

Don’t forget a soft blanket and a few pairs of thick woolly socks. Research shows that keeping your feet warm can increase your perceived temperature by 3–5°C.

Together, these items create more than just physical warmth; they build a safe, comforting haven for your mind during the long winter nights.

A Winter Ritual in the Kitchen: Brewing British Warm Drinks

When the sea wind rattles the windows, preparing a pot of authentic British warm drinks in the kitchen becomes one of winter’s most soothing rituals. Mulled Apple Juice, a non-alcoholic version of the traditional Christmas mulled wine, is not only simple to make but will also fill your room with a delightful aroma.

Beyond the basic recipe, you can add a slice of fresh ginger for extra warmth or a star anise for more complex fragrance. Once ready, it’s best to serve the drink from a thermal carafe to keep it warm for longer.

It’s worth noting that this beverage is rich in vitamin C, which can help boost immunity during winter. Inviting a few friends to share the pot while chatting in the fragrant warmth may just be the perfect way to combat long British winter nights.

Explore the City’s Christmas Magic: Encounter Festive Lights

During the winter, Portsmouth transforms into a dreamlike kingdom under the spell of Christmas, shining with dazzling lights.
To fully experience this magic, check the events calendar on the Visit Portsmouth website regularly. It not only lists real-time updates on Christmas markets, light shows, and special events but also offers detailed route planning and ticketing information.

Join the Warmth of Campus Life: Don’t Miss These Events

The University of Portsmouth understands the psychological challenges winter can bring and has specially curated a series of warm and engaging activities. In addition to checking the University’s official events page for updates, the RES LIFE monthly newsletter acts like a thoughtful guide, always giving you a sneak peek of the month ahead.

Many events take place over the winter months. Events like the Beyond Borders Café where you can meet students from around the world. Sharing winter traditions from different countries, you might be surprised to learn that Christmas in Italy lasts until January 6th, or that students from Nordic countries are already experts at finding light in the darkness. These events are more than just ways to pass the time: they are vital bridges to building a sense of belonging when you’re far from home.

Take Care of Your Body and Mind: Enjoy a Bright Winter

With only 7–8 hours of daylight during the British winter, proactively caring for your physical and mental health is especially important. 

Nutrition experts suggest that foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon and walnuts) and Vitamin D supplements can help maintain emotional balance in winter. Do check with your GP if that could be right for you.

Even in the cold, a daily 20-minute midday walk outdoors is essential. The Southsea seafront path is an ideal spot, where the fresh sea air can invigorate your senses and moderate sun exposure aids Vitamin D synthesis.

Remember, if you experience persistent low mood, the University’s wellbeing service is always there as a confidential and free source of professional support.

When the last snowflake melts into Portsmouth’s sea breeze and the campus cherry blossoms begin to bud for spring, you’ll look back on these special days and realise that winter has given you far more than academic knowledge. This season, you’ve learned how to warm yourself with a hot drink, find joy in sparkling lights, and, most importantly, you’ve discovered the strong and warm-hearted person within.

May every cosy moment you create with this guide become a shining pearl in your study abroad memories, giving you strength long into the future. Winter in Portsmouth will eventually pass, but the courage and warmth it leaves you will continue to light up every season of your life.