With a more ‘seaside resort’ feel and packed with independent cafes, restaurants and shops, Southsea has a very different feel to its neighbour, Portsmouth.
Less than two-miles square and mostly flat, Southsea is an easy town to explore on foot and popular with both holiday makers and locals. With plenty of eateries, a large grassy common for picnicking and a bustling seafront, it makes for a great day out.
Southsea Common
The large grassy expanse between town and seafront gives Southsea a spacious feel. Perfect for ball games, sunbathing or strolling, the Common is also home to numerous annual events, such as the Southsea Show, Kite Festival, D-Day 75 and the popular music festival, Victorious. With great views of the ocean, as well as pitch and putt and a skate park, Southsea Common is a great base for a day trip to the town during your holiday.
Southsea Splash Pool
If the sun is shining during your holiday, Southsea Splash Pool is the perfect place to cool off the children without battling sand. Suitable for children under 8, it has two paddling pools, play equipment and grassy areas to sit on.
Southsea Castle
Walk through Tudor history as you explore Southsea Castle – one of several forts constructed for King Henry VIII in 1544. Sitting magnificently on Southsea’s waterfront, enjoy great views of both the city and sea. With a café, gift shop and its very own microbrewery, combine historic discoveries with a spot of relaxation. Southsea Castle is free of charge between March and October, and the Courtyard Café is open all year.
Culinary delights
With so many cafes and restaurants lining the streets of Southsea, it can hard to decide where to try while on holiday. Here are Fresh Air’s top picks:
- Coffee Cup. Nestled by the beach huts, this small, independent café has amazing ocean views for a morning brew.
- The 10th Hole. A buzzing tearoom on Southsea seafront, serving delicious breakfasts, lunches and sweet treats.
- Algarve’s Grill. Mouth-watering Portuguese food and cocktails; open for lunch or dinner.
- Sakura. A highly-popular local restaurant serving Japanese cuisine, including sushi and noodles dishes. Takeaway is also available if you’d rather enjoy your food in the comfort of your holiday let.
- Becketts. A meticulously renovated restaurant and cocktail bar, Becketts is distinctively unique, lively and stylish. A great venue choice for brunch, lunch or dinner – or perhaps just a cocktail?