Ā© blue_rain
Portsmouth is the perfect destination for a weekend away, with more reasons to visit than you might think. Indeed, the waterside city has plenty of things to see and do beside climb the Spinnaker Tower. You’ll find activities for everyone in the family.
Travelodge has a couple of Portsmouth hotels, complete with comfy beds, modern bathrooms, and free wifi so you can relax away from home. Here is our quick guide to the best of the city:
1. Visit The Mary Rose Museum
One of the most famous and family-friendly attractions in Portsmouth is The Mary Rose Museum. Great for children learning about the Tudors, but fascinating for all, the museum holds the original Mary Rose that was Henry VIII’s warship. The Mary Rose sank in 1545 and was discovered in the 1970s, before being brought up to the surface in the 1980s. After many years of conservation, the Mary Rose is intriguing to explore. As well as the ship, there are over 19,000 artefacts waiting for you to discover. Not to be missed!
2. Visit Old Portsmouth
Wandering around Old Portsmouth is the perfect way to spend an afternoon – rain or shine. The little streets are fun to explore and the historic buildings are quintessentially quaint. Enjoy a coffee or a teacake in one of the cosy pubs or cafĆ©s when energy flags.
3. Go On a Shopping Spree
There are many places to shop in Portsmouth and you can find everything from well known high-street brands to quirky vintage shops and emporiums. Close to the Travelodge Portsmouth Hotel, Gunwharf Quays is the place to bag a bargain. It’s home to over 95 retail outlet stores including Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Hobbs and Jaeger. While for non-shoppers in the family, it also has a bowling alley, huge cinema, art gallery, restaurants and fitness centre. Why would you need to ever leave!? Southsea, on the other hand, is the perfect destination for unique shopping finds. As well as individual retro shops, chocolatiers, shoe and interior design boutiques, plus trendy bars, you will also find the Hampshire Farmers Market. A great place to sample local produce.
4. Eat and Drink
Ā© nicksmith156
Portsmouth is home to a wonderful selection of bars and restaurants for both adult and junior taste buds. El Nico is in a grade II listed building in Old Porstmouth and a cool destination for a tapas celebration. While The Georgian at Antiques Storehouse offers the best cream teas in Portsmouth, including some gluten-free and dairy-free selections. Grabbing some fish and chips in The Harbour is also a classic way to finish a day spent in the sea air and is always a great British treat!
5. Try Your Hand at Watersports
Portsmouth is home to a fabulous watersports centre, giving you a chance to get right into the sea. There are a number of courses that are suitable for all levels. Almost anyone can try their hand at kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, powerboating or paddleboarding. Be prepared to get wet and wild! Getting out onto the water is a great way to build a good appetite, and keeping children active will help to keep the weekend happy.
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