Things to Do in Southsea

A large open space along the seafront, used for walks, picnics, and events. Plenty of benches and paths.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Grab a takeaway coffee from Southsea Coffee Co. on Osborne Road and sit on a bench facing the Spinnaker Tower.

A 16th-century coastal fort built by Henry VIII. You can walk the ramparts and visit the small museum inside. Free entry to the castle and grounds.

🕐 10:00–17:00 daily (Apr–Oct), 10:00–16:00 weekends only (Nov–Mar)

💡 Climb up to the gun platform at sunset—you get a clear view across the Solent to the Isle of Wight.

A public square in front of the neoclassical Guildhall. Used for markets, concerts, and community events. No charge to walk through or sit on the steps.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Check the Guildhall’s Facebook page for free lunchtime music performances on Fridays in summer.

The dockyard’s harbour walk, action stations exhibition, and the Mary Rose Museum shop are free. You can see the ships from outside.

🕐 10:00–17:30 daily (last free entry 16:30)

💡 Walk along the harbour edge behind the main ticket gate—you get a close view of HMS Victory’s rigging without paying.

A small museum covering the Normandy landings, with the Overlord Embroidery as its centrepiece. Entry is £12 but the ground-floor exhibits and shop are free to browse.

🕐 10:00–17:00 daily (Oct–Mar closes 16:00)

💡 Visit during the last hour before closing—staff often let you stay a bit longer, and it’s quieter.