I just completed a visit to England before the heat wave arrived. Unlike my past trips to the UK which have been very London-centric, I explored more of southern England with many day trips while occasionally popping into London to see friends.
I made a day trip to Portsmouth to check out this beautiful coastal city that has a strong naval history. Having visited warships in the US before, I wasn't interested in paying a hefty admission to see British warships and submarines. I took time to explore the historic attractions, quaint old town and went up the interesting-looking Spinnaker Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
The city centre is bustling because they put a big outlet mall there! There is plenty of activity out in the water with numerous ferries heading to the Isle of Wright and also the European mainland.
Old Portsmouth is only a short walk away from Gunwharf Quays and is a quiet neighbourhood of historic buildings in what appears to be a real residential area. I entered the old port (Camber) area along Feltham Row, where there are relatively new homes with small gardens backing into the sea view.
Southsea is a short drive east of Gunwharf Quays. It is walkable as well but I only had a day trip so time was a bit tight and I ended up taking the car there. There is ample paid street and lot parking and the star attraction is the castle. Built in 1544 by Henry VIII's orders to defend against the French, it was used by the king the year after in the Battle of the Solent, where he saw his flagship Mary Rose sink in battle.
The Portsmouth Naval Memorial commemorates the Royal Navy members who do not have a known grave, such as perishing at sea. Opened in 1924, it was expanded after World War II and now marks some 25,000 sailors from both wars.
Linear Mode
