Portsmouth
Portsmouth & Southsea station was built in 1866.
So I had to escape the London heat, as you know I northern, I cannot cope with it, especially 37/38c. I was looking every day before the heat arrived, where it was to be cooler than London and I didn’t have much look besides the south coast. Portsmouth was a comfortable 28-29c which I can cope with, also I’ve always wanted to visit this historic city so here was my perfect opportunity.
Leaving London Waterloo, it takes roughly 1 and half hours to 2 and half, depending on the train you get. Also you can get the train to two stations in the city, Portsmouth and Southsea and Portsmouth harbour. I went to Portsmouth and Southsea, so see the magnificent guildhall and walk down to the harbour. One thing to note is that the city maybe a very important historical city but a lot was wiped out during WWII bombing raids on the city, being a strategic target due to the city being home to the Royal Navy, so expect to see a lot of post war buildings and generic 60/70’s blocks.
A lot of the buildings that survived are beautifully designed and have intricate designs as you would expect.
Portsmouth Guildhall
Built in 1890 originally as Portsmouth town hall, But suffered major damage during WWII and was largely rebuilt in the 50’s and is now used for events.
From the station i walked straight down to the harbour front as my next destination was some where I’ve wanted to visit from being a child and my father telling all about HMS Victory, at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
HMS VICTORY.
HMS Victory is the pride of the British navy and is still the flagship for the First Sea Lord and is the oldest naval ship still in commission, having being in service for 244 years.
She is best known for being the ship Lord Nelson used and crewed during the battle of Trafalgar, beating the French and also where Nelson was injured and then died on board.
Walking around the ship was incredible, you get a real sense of how it must feel onboard and the Claustrophobic conditions the crew endured. Especially if you use the walk and point audio guides, that allows you to go at your own pace and take in as much knowledge your brain can store.
The dockyards are home to several ships and historic buildings, including HMS Warrior and the infamous Tudor battle ship The Mary Rose. Also besides the dockyard is the current Royal Navy docks, so dont be surprised to see giant aircraft carriers or battleships in the harbour.
Right by the dockyard is the development of GunWharf Quays, a shopping centre with many restaurants and bars, right by the waters edge. It also has a cinema, casino and the iconic Spinnaker Tower, an icon of Portsmouth and the south.
The tower was chosen by the residents of Portsmouth out of 3 designs and was opened in 2005. The design reflects the mast and sails of a ship, also you may visit the observation deck and the cafe for great views across the city and harbour, with views to the isle of white and France on clear days.
Portsmouth Old Town.
A little walk around the harbour in the opposite direction to the dockyard will bring you to the Historic Portsmouth Old Town.
This is heart and soul from where the city grew. Here you’ll find all the cobbled streets and little alleyways. Traditional English pubs on the waters front, along with the fort that was built to protect the city from invaders.
Portsmouth Cathedral.
Founded in the 12th.century this historic building shouldn’t be missed on your visit to the city. It was rebuilt in the 16th.century and in 1591, Elizabeth I worshipped here on a visit.
