Great days out

Great days out begin and end with Portsmouth Park and Ride

 

If you’re looking for inspiration for days out in Portsmouth or want to know more about events and activities taking place in Portsmouth and Southsea, please take a look at the information below.

See our discounts section for great value offers at selected retailers for park and ride customers.

Please show retailers proof of purchase to be eligible for any discounts. This can be a ticket or Flexipass on the First Bus app, RingGo app or ticket from the bus driver.

For more events and information, check out Visit Portsmouth

Attractions

A child and her grandmother walk beneath the tropical treasures tunnel at the Blue Reef Aquarium in Portsmouth

Blue Reef Aquarium

Portsmouth’s Blue Reef Aquarium offers an immersive undersea experience, from British marine life to vibrant tropical reefs. Highlights include a walk-through shark tunnel, outdoor play and splash zones, year-round events, and over 40 displays featuring rays, sharks, terrapins, and exotic amphibians.

Blue Cascades logo on a white background. The text reads Cascades shopping centre Portsmouth

Cascades Shopping Centre

Cascades Shopping Centre is an undercover retail destination in the heart of Portsmouth. Home to over 60 retailers, including popular high street brands and distinctive independent stores including fashion, beauty, dining, and family-friendly activities.

Two boys enjoy Canyon River water ride at Clarence Pier

Clarence Pier

Clarence Pier in Southsea is a top family attraction, offering rides, arcades, indoor adventure golf, and dining at Wimpy. Open March to October, it’s ideal for all ages and combines classic fairground fun with modern entertainment. Located on the seafront near key landmarks, it’s perfect for a fun-filled day out.

The Charles Dickens Birthplace logo features a stylised pot of ink with a depiction of the author's profile and a feather quill

Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum

Thursdays and Sundays 10am to 4.30pm (last entry at 4pm)

Step inside the birthplace of renowned Victorian author Charles Dickens, in Old Commercial Road, where he lived between 1809 and 1812. Featuring some of his treasured personal belongings and the room where he was born, on 7 February 1812. Opening times may vary – check website for details.

A woman pours gravy onto a roast dinner

Coastal Kitchen

Five distinct venues in Southsea and old Portsmouth

The Coastal Kitchen Family spans five distinctive venues in Southsea and Old Portsmouth, blending two generations of hospitality. From beachfront dining at The Briny to hearty breakfasts at The Canteen, indulgent cakes at The Tenth Hole, relaxed bistro vibes at The A Bar, and curated wines at Camber Wines, each offers exceptional food and drink in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The front entrance of the D-Day Story with 'Monty' statue

The D-Day Story

Explore the momentous events of 6 June 1944 at The D-Day Story, Portsmouth. Inside, immersive exhibits and the stunning 83-metre Overlord Embroidery bring the story of D-Day vividly to life. Step aboard LCT 7074, the last preserved D-Day tank landing craft. Discover its journey from wartime service to nightclub.

Family using touch screen

Exploria

A soft play park that creates a fantasy world of fun and physical activity to keep kids engaged and entertained.

Two women create pottery at Fatclay Pottery

Fatclay Pottery

Fatclay Pottery offers hands-on classes for all skill levels, with expert guidance in wheel throwing and hand-building. Small groups ensure personal attention, and all materials are provided. Come curious and leave with something beautiful, messy hands, and a relaxed mind.

Theatre seating

New Theatre Royal

A Victorian Grade II listed theatre in the heart of Portsmouth. Throughout the year, the New Theatre Royal presents and produces a diverse range of performances.

The words Pitt St are arranged in a colourful design

Pitt Street Skatepark

Portsmouth’s indoor skate haven welcomes all wheeled sports including skateboards, scooters, BMX, quads, and blades. Open to all ages and skill levels, Pitt St. is a Community Interest Company offering a friendly, inclusive vibe. Enjoy food and drinks on-site, take part in beginner sessions, or join a coaching programme.

Lovely big ship

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

The UK’s premier destination for exploring 500 years of naval history where you can step on-board world-famous ships, explore heroic submarines and uncover some of the Navy’s best-kept secrets.

Queens hotel

Queens Hotel, Southsea

The Queens Hotel is close to the beach and other attractions, including museums and galleries. Use park and ride to make the hotel your base to explore the city on foot, hire a bike or rental e-scooter or take advantage of the city’s excellent bus connections. Take time to visit the Queens for a refreshing coffee break, light lunch or a cocktail or two …

Southsea Castle stands resplendent against a blue sky

Southsea Castle

Free entry

Stand where King Henry VIII watched the Mary Rose sink. Built in 1544, Southsea Castle was a military stronghold for over 400 years, guarding Portsmouth Harbour.
Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Solent and Isle of Wight from its ramparts. Inside the Keep, discover the castle’s rich history and view fascinating artefacts. Open April to October, Tuesday to Sunday.

Family looking out of Spinnaker Tower

Spinnaker Tower

Enjoy an unforgettable experience as you take in breathtaking views from the tower. Walk across the stunning glass skywalk and watch the boats bobbing in the waves beneath your feet.

Discounts

7 Bone text in pink

7 Bone

20% discount for dine-in only on the date of travel

Serving up premium burgers, thick shakes, and feel-good vibes every day of the week. Walk in or order ahead with Click + Collect. Find 7 Bone at 16 Guildhall Walk.

A cup of coffee and breakfast plat sit beside a Club House menu

The Club House

10% discount on main menu foods items. Excludes bakery and cake items and specials menu.

Nestled between Southsea Tennis Courts on Clarence Esplanade, The Club House is open 7 days a week serving speciality coffee, breakfast, and lunch, using fresh, local produce. Cakes and sweet treats are baked fresh each morning.

The front entrance of the D-Day Story with 'Monty' statue

The D-Day Story

15% off walk up tickets

Explore the momentous events of 6 June 1944 at The D-Day Story, Portsmouth. Inside, immersive exhibits and the stunning 83-metre Overlord Embroidery bring the story of D-Day vividly to life. Step aboard LCT 7074, the last preserved D-Day tank landing craft. Discover its journey from wartime service to nightclub.

Florio's D'Italia logo

Florio's

10% discount on food and drink

Florio’s D’Italia is a family-run, pizzeria, café, and deli offering homemade pizzas, focaccia, Italian desserts, and top-quality Neapolitan coffee, plus a selection of speciality Italian groceries.

Pie & Vinyl logo

Pie & Vinyl

10% off food

An award-winning independent record shop, located in the heart of Southsea, offering a huge selection of new releases with limited indie editions and reissues available.

We also sell PIES!

The words Pitt St are arranged in a colourful design

Pitt St. Skatepark

Under 16s get 50% off Monday to Friday

Portsmouth’s indoor skate haven welcomes all wheeled sports including skateboards, scooters, BMX, quads, and blades. Open to all ages and skill levels, Pitt St. is a Community Interest Company offering a friendly, inclusive vibe. Enjoy food and drinks on-site, take part in beginner sessions, or join a coaching programme.

Family looking out of Spinnaker Tower

Spinnaker Tower

10% discount on day admission tickets for adults, seniors, students and children (excludes family admission tickets).

Enjoy an unforgettable experience as you take in breathtaking views from the tower. Walk across the stunning glass skywalk and watch the boats bobbing in the waves beneath your feet.

Treasure Island adventure golf logo

Treasure Island Adventure Golf

10% discount on Treasure Island adventure golf tickets

Enjoy an incredible Treasure Island golf adventure, featuring two distinct nine-hole courses that promise a fun-filled experience for the entire family. Located opposite Clarence Pier and close to Southsea Beach.

Vanilla ice cream logo

Vanilla Ice Cream

10% discount

Located opposite Clarence Pier and close to Southsea Beach. A family-run business offering Mr Whippy ice cream, churros, whippy trays and other delicious, sweet treats.

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