Day Trips in Portsmouth

Overview

Portsmouth, located on England’s south coast, is a historic city rich with maritime heritage and cultural attractions. If you find yourself in the area, consider these day trip destinations to make the most of your visit!

D-Day Beaches (Normandy, France)

• Distance from Portsmouth: Approximately 200 miles (320 km)
• Travel time: Around 4 hours by car or ferry

The D-Day beaches in Normandy, France, are a poignant reminder of the historic events that took place on June 6, 1944. Visit Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, or Pointe du Hoc to pay tribute and learn about the D-Day invasion.

Southampton

• Distance from Portsmouth: Approximately 35 miles (56 km)
• Travel time: Around 1 hour by car or train

Southampton offers a vibrant waterfront, historic buildings, and maritime museums. Don’t miss the SeaCity Museum, which tells the story of Southampton’s role in the Titanic disaster, or a stroll along the picturesque Oxford Street.

Isle of Wight

• Distance from Portsmouth: Approximately 6 miles (10 km) by ferry
• Travel time: Around 45 minutes by ferry

The Isle of Wight is easily accessible via ferry and offers beautiful beaches, charming villages, and the iconic Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s former summer residence.

Chichester

• Distance from Portsmouth: Approximately 25 miles (40 km)
• Travel time: Around 1 hour by car or train

Chichester is a charming cathedral city with a medieval center, beautiful gardens, and the nearby Goodwood Estate, which hosts horse racing events and the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Winchester

• Distance from Portsmouth: Approximately 30 miles (48 km)
• Travel time: Around 1 hour by car or train

Winchester boasts a rich history, with its Norman cathedral being one of the largest in Europe. The city is also home to the famous Winchester Castle and the fascinating Winchester City Museum.

Tips for Day Trips in Portsmouth

• Check ferry schedules and book tickets in advance for trips to the Isle of Wight or France.
• Plan your itinerary to make the most of your day, considering travel time between destinations.
• Bring comfortable shoes for walking, as many of these attractions involve some amount of walking.
• Consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple attractions at a single destination to save money.
• Check the opening times and days for each attraction before planning your visit. Some may have limited hours or be closed on specific days.