Microgap experiences

Experience all the fun of a gap year with experiences that you don't need to go to the other side of the world to enjoy. As part of Visit Britain's #MyMicrogap campaign, we've pulled together some of the most interesting and interactive experiences you can enjoy on a short trip to Portsmouth.

Try your hand at craft activities at The Hotwalls Studios

The Hotwalls Studios brings artists and designer-makers together in an exceptional heritage location. Previous activities with artists have included everything from loom weaving to puppet-making workshops - so there's no shortage of variety! Head to the studios for a look around, or book yourself onto a course to try out a new activity yourself.

Make artsan skincare products at Southsea Bathing Hut

Join Southsea Bathing Hut’s Founder, Samantha Worsey, for fun and informative workshops exploring the craft of natural skincare. All workshops will be held in the beautiful surroundings of its natural skincare apothecary.

In 2014, Samantha read about Portsmouth’s long-lost heritage as a soap-making city and decided to bring it back. From humble beginnings on Samantha's kitchen table, Southsea Bathing Hut has grown steadily to now include over 30 products from hand soap to facial skincare.

Learn about Gin and Rum making at The Portsmouth Distillery Co.

Tour the Portsmouth Distillery, set in the stunning Fort Cumberland at Eastney.

Enjoy a full tour of the facilities, with expert explanations about the processes used in the creation of the company's fine spirits. Learn about the passion and history, before visiting the jewel in the distillery crown for a tasting and a chance to soak up some of the history of the fascinating historic monument it calls home.

Learn to sail, kayak or paddleboard at the Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre

Get out on the water and go home with a brand-new skill. Ideally located on the stunning shores of Langstone Harbour, the Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre in Portsmouth has a very wide range of activities for all ages and abilities. With both water and land-based options, there really is something for everyone.

Go horse riding at Fort Widley, Portsmouth

Ride around the Fort whilst admiring the views over Portsmouth to the south and the South Downs national park to the north. The Walk Outs at Fort Widley are suitable for those with little or no experience of riding who would like to experience the feeling of being on a horse, without the pressure of any formal instruction.

Try your hand at sea fishing

Portsmouth is a great location to try your hand at sea fishing and while away a few hours contemplating the great blue yonder. Cast off from the beach or South Parade Pier or go out on a charter for deep sea fishing.

There are a number of charters available, including the Sea Juicer and Kelley's Hero.

Go bird watching at Farlington Marshes Nature Reserve

This reserve offers wonderful walks all year round, but during the winter it really comes to life, playing host to a staggering number of migratory, overwintering wildfowl.

Try a Hot House Experience on No Man's Fort

No Man's Fort is a grand luxury hotel and events venue that stands in the waters of the Solent.

Relax in a tranquil space as you enjoy our indoor fire pit – complete with a Ration Kit including marshmallows, liquor and much more. The Fort has four beautiful treatment rooms, plus one double room where couples or friends can experience indulgent treatments at the same time. There is a relaxation suite for after your treatment where you will be able to take time out and enjoy a drink.

The spa is open seven days a week and a twilight session can be booked on request. The Forts also offer guests use of a sauna, hot tubs, hot house, game rooms and the Lighthouse Suite, which has panoramic views of the Solent.

Give back at Southsea Beach Clean

Join like-minded volunteers for a morning of beach cleaning, then relax on the beach with an ice cream or a coffee following a job well done.

Go wild by abseiling down the Spinnaker Tower

Experience an amazing adrenalin rush and take on a 100-metre descent down the side of Portsmouth’s iconic landmark, the Spinnaker Tower. With unmissable views across Portsmouth harbour, the Solent and the Isle of Wight, there is no better reason to experience life on the edge!

Take in a range of wild activities at Peter Ashley Activity Centre

Located at the historic Fort Purbrook and Fort Widley, the Peter Ashley Activity Centre offers a great range of activities, including:
Bushcraft
Rifle Shooting
Archery
Orienteering

Learn a new skill or try your hand at something new as part of a fun, interactive course.

Try wakeboarding at South Coast H2O, Portsmouth

South Coast H2O offers a variety of sports and have unique facilities, including one of the UK’s longest system 2.0 cable wakeboarding runs! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a total amateur, there's something for all. If you're brave enough you can even test yourselves on the ramps and rails.

Battle with friends on No Man's Fort

No Man's Fort is a grand luxury hotel and events venue that stands in the waters of the Solent. It also hosts laser battles in the lower level labyrinth which consists of 21 rooms connected by winding corridors - making it the perfect arena for a spot of competitive fun.