Urban attractions

Portsmouth is a city full of history and spirit with a great deal to see and do in a compact area. We're extremely proud of our past and our future to come, so ensure you pay a visit to our attractions and discover more. 

Visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and take an exciting journey through 500 years of history, finding out the crucial role it has played in times of war and peace. Home to the world famous HMS Victory, HMS Warrior 1860 and Henry VIII's Mary Rose. Visit the spot where Nelson fell at the Battle of Trafalgar, see over 1000 Tudor artefacts perfectly preserved from the Mary Rose or try your hand at some modern navy skills at the interactive Action Stations!

Take the ultimate underwater safari at the award-winning Blue Reef Aquarium and discover a world of underwater adventure. Explore the drama of the British coast, the underwater gardens of the Mediterranean and the dazzling beauty of a spectacular coral reef all in a seafront setting.

Further along the front you'll find the majestic Royal Marines Museum situated in a stately former Officers' Mess. Discover the remarkable story of the Royal Navy's own infantry from 1664 to the present day.

The city has no less than twelve museums where you can find out more about Portsmouth's story and the people that have helped to write it, including its famous sons Charles Dickens, Brunel and Conan Doyle. Visit Dickens' Birthplace now preserved as a museum, or why not try a taste of the world's greatest Sherlock Holmes collection - on view at the City Museum.

Don't miss the occasional openings at some of Portsmouth's best kept secrets - not open all year but well worth a visit. Explore the Square and the Round Towers - fortifications ordered by Henry V to ward off invaders, or Eastney Beam Engine House, home to a pair of magnificent James Watt beam engines. For more information contact the Visitor Information Service. 

For a good look at Portsmouth on the move hop on a Local Haunts bus tour or join one of our regular Guided Walks, It'll give you a new perspective of the city and the experienced guides will teach you stories and secrets that you may not have otherwise discovered. (Use the search box to find out more about bus and walking tours - tickets available from the Visitor Information Service).