Portsmouth is sometimes viewed as a bit of a rough, dirty city, with not too much going for it. I wanted to show you some of my favourites parts of this surprisingly open and fresh city.
Naval History
The flagship from the most famous naval battle in Britain's history, commanded by our most famous Admiral is still on show in Portsmouth Docks. HMS Victory is a commanding and overwhelming presence, even though she was built in 1765. It is the only one of the largest naval warships (of the time) to survive to present day, and this was the ship that Admiral Nelson died on during the battle!
Soaring viewpoints
In the centre of the shopping and eating district known as Gunwharf Quays, the Spinnaker Tower rises 170 metres above the sea, and provides a fantastic platform from which to look out over the city. On the first deck, the panoramic views are some of the best on the UK, as this is one of the tallest buildings outside the capital city.
Seafronts for miles...
Although a bit industrial in places, Portsmouth is at its heart a naval and sea-port town, and as just that, there are excellent seafronts here. Stay away from the tacky funfair near to the ferry terminal to the Isle of Wight, and instead head to Southsea Castle and that part of the front. Isolated, often empty and achingly beautiful, the sea front here is definitely worth visiting!
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The author
Joe Thorpe
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