If you’re travelling with the family this summer and looking for things to do in Portsmouth, there is more than plenty to do! From family attractions to museums and local events, there is always something for the whole family in Portsmouth and Southsea.
Feeling fascinated by the sea? Get ready to explore dozens of exciting things to do in Portsmouth, which is fun for everyone. Plus, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy your time in this coastal city.
With a whole host of creatures to discover, from sharks to clownfish, jellyfish and otters, there is so much to see! Feast your eyes upon the colourful and exotic inhabitants of the coral reef within the wonders of the aquatic world.
Flexi tickets are available, where you can save 10% on your admission:
- Standard tickets – £10.35
- Junior (ager 3-12) – £7.88
- Concession – £9.22
For further details, visit the Blue Reef website.
2. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Are you ready for a day of adventure? As well as being open all year round, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the perfect spot for the whole family. While you’re there, explore lots of great shopping, places to eat and drink and of course, plenty of opportunities for a picnic. So whether you’re bringing your own snacks or fancy a sit down meal, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the place to be.
There are three picnic areas to choose from!
- Porter’s Garden is a leafy sanctuary that’ll allow you to have a quiet break.
- Port Arena allows visitors to enjoy their lunch while marvelling at the surrounding history.
- If architecture is more your thing, be sure to station your picnic outside Boathouse No.7.
3. Fort Widley
If you love the outdoors, you’re going to love Fort Widley. It’s most definitely the time to make the most of our time in the great outdoors, with a range of activities available.
Enjoy a session with “some of the loveliest horses on the south coast”, with their horse riding lessons – but that’s not all. Their fantastic offerings of archery sessions are also back up and running, with private, sem-private and group sessions available! It’s the perfect fun for all the family. You can also take your archery skills to the next level with their field archery course. Be sure to contact the centre for bookings and more details.
You can also give the following activities a go:
Air rifle shooting
Get ready to take aim! Learn the principles of marksmanship and then set your sights on some exciting shooting challenges to test your skills.
Laser tag
If you’re feeling energetic, laser tag in Fort Widley’s purpose built woodland is a great opportunity to blow off some steam and enjoy the outdoors.
Bush craft
Bush Craft at Fort Widley is an exciting learning opportunity for both the adults and the young ones (minimum 8 years old). Here you’ll get to grips with the elements, learn how to construct a shelter, safely light a campfire and identify wildlife.
Mountain biking
No bike? No problem! Experience mountain biking like no other with this awesome activity at Fort Widley. With plenty of cycle routes to explore, you’ll be given all the kit you need to set off on your family adventure.
Individual private taster sessions, semi-private taster sessions and group taster sessions are on offer.
4. Canoe Lake
Canoe Lake is the ideal spot for some easy entertainment. Here you can hire swan pedalos, crabbing nets & buckets and enjoy the huge free play area. If you love a good picnic, there are plenty of spaces to settle down and take a break. Canoe Lake Leisure provides six all-weather tennis courts, two hard tennis courts, basketball and netball courts – so there is more than enough if you’re feeling competitive. Handy changing rooms are also available.
Tennis is available with or without a membership, with ‘pay and play’ for those just looking for a casual game. You can book up to 24 hours in advance via their website too.
5. Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery
Discover the history of Portsmouth and immerse yourself in Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery! Take a stroll through Portsmouth’s heritage and discover the world of Sherlock Holmes, cast your eyes on some incredible works of art and a whole load more.
What will you see?
Home to a huge variety of exhibitions, you can expect to see:
A Study in Sherlock – One of the world’s largest collections about Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and the famous Sherlock Holmes.
Decorative Arts – A collection of fine and decorative arts from around 1500 to 2010.
No Place Like Pompey – Discover why Portsmouth is so unique!
Be sure to check for events and special displays, including temporary exhibits from internationally renowned museums.
Entry is also free, so you needn’t worry about racking up costs during your visit.
How will you explore Portsmouth?
With so much to see and do in Portsmouth, there are so many family adventures to be had. Now, it’s just finding the perfect place to stay! But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered there.
Keep your eyes peeled for more family friendly things to do in Portsmouth, the latest events, news and much more.