The local area

Discover Southsea in Portsmouth: Your Perfect Holiday Destination for History, Stunning Beaches, and Exciting Attractions.

Enjoy a Fun-filled, Activity-packed Adventure or a Relaxing Getaway in this Coastal Haven.

Things to do

Smell the sea breeze as you step outside on to Southsea Common and the seafront. Southsea Escape holiday home is close to so many exciting sights and activities; the beach is only a short stroll, and the area is surrounded with activities, historic landmarks and museums to explore:

The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard serves up a selection of historic buildings and ships, including the Mary Rose, HMS Warrior and also HMS Victory – the flagship of Horatio Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar. From here, take a harbour tour to get up close and hear about the current warships in the Navy fleet including the latest aircraft carriers HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales, or you could take a short ferry across to Gosport to visit the Submarine Museum.

The D-Day Story is a must-visit, where you can learn about the events of World War II, pay tribute to the brave soldiers who fought in the Normandy Landings and explore the LCT7074 landing craft. Visit the Southsea Castle, built by Henry VIII in the 16th century, to get a glimpse into the town's past. See what's on at the Kings Theatre and experience a show from the opulent Edwardian auditorium. 

Head to Southsea's beautiful beaches for a leisurely afternoon. The town's two-mile-long promenade offers stunning views of the Solent, and the beach itself is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and taking long walks. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, windsurfing or sailing at the Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre.

You’ll find plenty to do for the little ones too – from Clarence Pier amusement park and Blue Reef Aquarium to the fun and games at South Parade Pier. Let’s not forget Southsea Model Village, where you can walk around like a giant amongst 1/12th scale miniature buildings, and Cumberland House Natural History Museum, where kids and adults can walk through the butterfly house and also learn all about the city’s rich wildlife. The Splash Pool is particularly popular with toddlers.

For those who love their live music, be sure to visit the Wedgewood Rooms. This iconic music venue has played host to some of the biggest names in music, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Coldplay. Regular gigs and events are also held at Portsmouth Guildhall.

If you’re looking for some retail therapy, Gunwharf Quays has the answer, with over 90 designer stores. It also has harbour facing bars, restaurants, bowling & cinema.

There are also numerous independent cafes, bars and restaurants, supermarket, pharmacies, and convenience stores all within a short (~5 mins) walk.

Let's not forget the endless activities within a short walk of Southsea Escape:

🎢 Fairground rides, seaside amusements, and arcades on both South Parade and Clarence Piers.
⛳️ Mini golf by Canoe Lake, Treasure Island Golf, Indoor crazy golf at the Putt Hutt, 10th Hole Cafe with a 9 hole Pitch and Putt.
🦢 Pedalos on Canoe Lake.
💦 Splash Pool*,
🚍 Vintage Bus Tours (certain days/times)*,
🏐 Beach volleyball courts*,
🎵 Live music at the bandstand*

*Summer time only, check websites for details.

There are also numerous independent cafes, bars and restaurants, supermarket, pharmacies, and convenience stores all within a short (~5 mins) walk.

Day trips

Within the surrounding area there are also numerous other attractions to visit that would make great day-trips out:

Paulton's Park and Peppa Pig World (35-40 mins drive)
Marwell Zoo (35-40 mins drive),
Arundel Castle (40-45 mins drive)
New Forest National Park (35-40 mins drive)
Beaulieu National Motor Museum (55 mins-1hr drive)
Isle of Wight (Crossings via Hovercraft, passenger Ferry or Car Ferry).

Southsea is a destination that offers a little bit of everything. From its rich history and stunning beaches to its vibrant entertainment scene, there's always something to see and do.