Portsmouth's Naval Heritage and Top Attractions

Portsmouth's significance stems from its outstanding natural harbor, which has been the Royal Navy's main base since the Spanish Armada. The city's attractions, particularly around the harbor, are steeped in naval history. Her Majesty's Naval Base, Portsmouth (HMNB Portsmouth) is Britain's premier naval station, and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is home to iconic ships like Lord Nelson's HMS Victory, Henry VIII's Mary Rose, and the pioneering ironclad HMS Warrior.

From Roman fortifications to Henry II's fortifications and Richard II's palace, Portsmouth has long been a military stronghold. It played a role in the assembly of Henry V's troops and suffered heavy bombing in WWII due to its strategic value.

1. HMS Victory

At Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the HMS Victory stands as a testament to naval history. Restored to its 18th-century state, it's where Nelson died during the Battle of Trafalgar. Nearby, the National Museum of the Royal Navy offers a deeper dive into naval history.

Official site: www.hms-victory.com

2. Mary Rose Museum

The Mary Rose sank in 1545 and was raised in 1982. The museum displays the ship's hull and over 26,000 artifacts, providing insight into Tudor seafaring life.

Official site: www.maryrose.org

Top-Rated walking tours in Portsmouth

3. HMS Warrior

The restored HMS Warrior, a 19th-century iron-hulled warship, now serves as a museum. Visitors can explore the crew quarters and learn about life at sea. The ship is also available for events like dinners and weddings.

Official site: www.hmswarrior.org

4. Emirates Spinnaker Tower

The Emirates Spinnaker Tower offers panoramic views of Portsmouth and beyond. Visitors can enjoy the Sky Walk, interactive displays, and even abseiling experiences.

Official site: www.spinnakertower.co.uk

5. Royal Navy Submarine Museum

In Gosport, the museum showcases submarines like Holland I and HMS Alliance, along with interactive exhibits on submarine life.

Official site: www.nmrn.org.uk/submarine-museum

6. Round and Square Towers

The Round and Square Towers have protected Portsmouth's harbor for centuries. They now host events and offer great views.

Official site: www.squaretower.co.uk

7. Portsmouth Cathedral

Portsmouth Cathedral, dating back to 1185, features Norman and Wren-style architecture and naval memorabilia.

Official site: http://portsmouthcathedral.org.uk/

8. Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum

The museum celebrates Dickens' life with Regency furniture, manuscripts, and events.

Official site: www.charlesdickensbirthplace.co.uk

9. Portsmouth City Museum and Art Gallery

The museum houses art, craftwork, and exhibits on Arthur Conan Doyle and the city's history.

Official site: www.portsmouthcitymuseums.co.uk

10. The D-Day Story

This museum details the Normandy invasion with immersive displays and the Overlord Embroidery.

Official site: https://theddaystory.com

11. Stansted Park

Stansted Park offers walks, an arboretum, and the historic Stansted House with the Bessborough art collection.

Official site: www.stanstedpark.co.uk

12. Southsea

Southsea features a promenade, beach, historic sites, and museums like the Cumberland House Natural History Museum.

Official site: http://portsmouthnaturalhistory.co.uk/

Where to Stay in Portsmouth for Sightseeing

Luxury Hotels: Seacrest Hotel, Florence Suites Boutique Hotel, and Portsmouth Marriott Hotel.

Mid-Range Hotels: Somerset House Boutique Hotel, G! Boutique Hotel, and The Queens Hotel.

Budget Hotels: Premier Inn Southsea, Hotel ibis Budget Portsmouth, and Travelodge Portsmouth.