Portsmouth in Hampshire is a haven for families, with plenty to keep everyone occupied. Be a part of history at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, discover the unique blend of shopping at Gunwharf Quays or take a journey through wartime Britain at the Royal Marines Museum.

At Portsmouth Historic Dockyard you will take an unbelievably ‘real’ journey through time. Come face to face with fascinating artefacts and historic ships that helped shape British history. Find out about Admiral Lord Nelson, Henry VIII, World War Veterans and Portsmouth Dockyard workers. Learn about life on board three of the world’s most famous warships ever built - HMS Victory, HMS Warrior 1860 and the Mary Rose.

Elsewhere at the Dockyard - see, touch and smell the history of the Royal Navy at the Royal Naval Museum, one of the UK’s leading maritime museums. Test your skill, bravery and brain power on the action-packed high seas adventure at Action Stations. Take a 45 minute tour around Portsmouth Harbour and see the ships of the modern Royal Navy fleet in port.  Portsmouth Historic Dockyard hosts a variety of events throughout the year that are enjoyed by young and old alike. Events include a ‘Celebration of Steam’ and ‘A Victorian Festival of Christmas’.

Just a five minute walk away is Gunwharf Quays, offering a unique blend of outlet shopping, leisure, and entertainment. There are over 90 designer outlets at this bustling waterfront development on Portsmouth's historic harbour. A wide choice of 30 cosmopolitan restaurants, bars and cafés also makes Gunwharf Quays a top spot for food-lovers. There is also a year round events programme includes music, children's entertainment, food markets, a variety of exhibitions at the contemporary art gallery.

Another of Portsmouth’s top attractions is the Royal Marine Museum, where you can journey through wartime Britain. Walk through air-raid shelters, WWII landing craft, a D-Day control room and a crashed glider. You can learn about jungle warfare and even come face to face with snakes and scorpions. 

The Blue Reef Aquarium is perfect for a family visit to Portsmouth, with regular talks and feeding demonstrations. Wander along the walk-through underwater tunnel, see cute otters and fascinating fish. 

Finally make the most of the natural playground that is Portsmouth at Southsea seafront. The pebble beaches and gigantic green spaces mean that you can soak up the sea air and let the kids let off some steam, when the weather is fine.