Make it a short break in Portsmouth

Packed with attractions and brilliant shopping, you’ll find plenty to see and do, not least at the Historic Dockyard - where 500 years of maritime history bristles with naval heritage. 

With just one ticket you’re given entry to all the attractions at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. 

Discover Henry VIII's beloved flagship The Mary Rose - rescued from the seabed after 436 years, in what was the largest marine salvage operation ever undertaken. Alongside the ship's hull discover items from the world's largest collection of Tudor artefacts, which tell the personal stories of those who lived and worked on board. 

Next, follow in Admiral Nelson's footsteps and see his magnificent HMS Victory. The oldest commissioned warship on earth is currently undergoing a multi-million-pound renovation that will keep Victory shipshape for generations to come. Thanks to the makeover, you’ll get to see much more than just the ship – you’ll have a front-row seat into the expert craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology that goes into maintaining such a historically important vessel. 

Next, marvel at the might of the ironclad HMS Warrior - a ship so fast, so strong and so well-armed that it was said to have made all other warships obsolete on the day it launched even though Warrior never actually fired a shot in anger. 

There's all this plus the Submarine Museum, Royal Marines Experience, Harbour Tour (to see ships in the current Royal Navy fleet) and loads more besides - and that's just the Dockyard! There's plenty more once you step back outside… 

A stone's throw from the Dockyard you'll find Gunwharf Quays, Spinnaker Tower and historic Old Portsmouth. 

Gunwharf Quays is the waterfront outlet centre, where 90 big name brands offer up to 60% off RRP. Bag a bargain at the likes of Mulberry, Oliver Bonas, Nike, Rituals and Lucy & Yak, then toast a job well done at one of the 30 bars and restaurants overlooking the picturesque harbour. There's an authentic global food offering, with options including French, Italian, Thai, Mexican and much more. 

The shopping centre is also where you'll find the iconic Spinnaker Tower. Head up to its three view decks for stunning panoramic views spanning 23 miles, across to the Isle of Wight, the Portsmouth cityscape and back towards the picturesque South Downs. 

Wander on from Gunwharf Quays (following the Millennium Promenade so you can't go wrong) and you'll reach Old Portsmouth, an area of cobbled streets and classic pubs. Grab a drink or a bite to eat, whilst enjoying the Portsmouth Harbour seascape. 

Stroll further still, over the new section of promenade, and you'll find Henry VIII's Southsea Castle, from where he watched the Mary Rose sink during the Battle of the Solent. 

Just off Southsea seafront is The D-Day Story where artefacts and personal testimonies put visitors in the shoes of those who took part in the operation on 6 June 1944. 

Being a popular city destination, Portsmouth also has a year-round calendar of events. 

Victorious Festival draws some of the biggest names in music and comedy to Southsea Common over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Elsewhere there's live music to enjoy throughout the warmer months, check out Live at the Bandstand or why not book a trip to coincide with the ever-popular Southsea Food Festival where top chefs and producers fill the streets with delicious eats. 

The Visit Portsmouth website is your one-stop shop to all the events coming up at this Great Waterfront City. It's also where you'll find more information about all the city attractions, as well as places to stay and sample itineraries for further inspiration. 

Create your own bespoke itinerary matched to your tastes, dates and budget on the website’s Trip Builder, building the perfect break in this epic island city couldn’t be easier.