Welcome to Portsmouth, a city bursting with naval heritage, captivating coastal scenery, and modern attractions. Often called the Great Waterfront City, it offers a perfect blend of learning and play, making it an outstanding destination for a family holiday or short break.

From exploring mighty warships and scaling observation towers to enjoying traditional seaside fun and discovering hidden history, Portsmouth delivers memorable experiences for children of all ages.

After a busy day of exploring, families need comfort, space, and convenience. Choosing a short-term let with Air Maison means you benefit from self-catering facilities, separate sleeping areas, and a true home-from-home experience right in the heart of the action. This guide will take you through the very best family days out, ensuring your visit to Portsmouth is unforgettable.

Dive into History and Adventure

Portsmouth’s past is proudly displayed, but these major attractions have gone to great lengths to ensure history is engaging and exciting for younger generations.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

No trip to Portsmouth is complete without visiting this world-class attraction. While it sounds serious, the Dockyard is packed with interactive elements perfect for children.

The Mary Rose Museum houses Henry VIII’s warship and thousands of Tudor artefacts. It is presented using dramatic lighting and soundscapes, making the experience immersive. Look out for the dedicated children’s trails and displays which showcase the lives of the people aboard the ship.

Climb aboard HMS Warrior, Britain’s first iron-clad warship. Kids love exploring the different decks, climbing the steep ladders, and imagining life at sea in the Victorian era.

The D-Day Story, Southsea

Located right on the seafront, The D-Day Story museum tells the crucial story of the D-Day landings through the eyes of the people involved. It is accessible and respectful, making it suitable for older children who are studying history or interested in modern warfare. The museum features personal stories, powerful displays, and the magnificent Overlord Embroidery, providing a moving and thought-provoking experience that complements the fun of the seaside.

Seaside Fun and Coastal Charm

Southsea is Portsmouth’s coastal heart, offering a traditional yet vibrant seaside experience that is essential for any family itinerary.

Southsea Seafront and Canoe Lake

The seafront promenade is perfect for strolling, scooting, or cycling, offering views across the Solent. Canoe Lake is the centrepiece of family activity here. You can hire colourful pedalo boats (including giant swans, an absolute must) for a gentle paddle, or simply enjoy feeding the ducks and geese. 

Clarence Pier Amusements

For classic, unadulterated fun, Clarence Pier delivers. Located on a jetty just along the seafront, it offers a range of fairground rides, arcade games, and amusements - Perfect for an hour or two of entertainment. The neighbouring mini golf is also a great option for some light-hearted competition.

Southsea Castle

Built in 1544 by King Henry VIII to defend the Solent, Southsea Castle is a must-visit while exploring Portsmouth. It is free to enter (seasonal opening, please check their website) and has plenty to offer kids of all ages. It offers fantastic photo opportunities and you can even catch a glimpse of the Isle of Wight from the top of the Keep.

High Views and Underwater Worlds

When the weather turns or you are looking for an iconic city experience, Portsmouth has several fantastic indoor and high-level attractions.

Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays

Dominating the skyline, the Spinnaker Tower offers unparalleled views of Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight. The experience is an exciting one for children, especially the incredible glass Sky Walk floor, where you can walk right over the drop.

Viewing platforms are enclosed and safe (don't worry!), and the interactive screens help kids identify famous landmarks and ships below. The views alone make this a must-do attraction, offering a brilliant perspective of the city you are exploring.

Blue Reef Aquarium, Southsea

Right on the seafront, the Blue Reef Aquarium is a perfect destination for rainy day activities in Portsmouth. It features an array of marine life from local waters and tropical oceans. The highlight for most children is the impressive underwater tunnel, where tropical sharks, rays, and fish swim all around and over you. 

Exploria & Flip Out Portsmouth

For guaranteed energy expenditure, head to the dedicated indoor play centres. Exploria is one of the largest indoor play parks in the area, offering bouncy zones, slides, and adventure play for a wide range of ages. Flip Out Portsmouth provides trampolining and adventure courses, catering brilliantly to older children and teens who need a physical challenge. These venues are your essential backup plan for days when the coastal weather is less than ideal.

Explore the Outdoors and Hidden Gems

Portsmouth also has a wealth of free and lower-key attractions that offer great value and unique local charm.

Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery

Tucked away from the busiest seafront, the Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery is free to enter and houses fascinating exhibits on the history of Portsmouth, including the life of author Charles Dickens, who was born here. They often run family-friendly activities and exhibitions, making it a great cultural stop without the hefty price tag.

Portsmouth Natural History Museum

Another fantastic low-budget option, particularly engaging for younger children, is the Portsmouth Natural History Museum located near Canoe Lake. It features exhibits on local wildlife, insects, geology, and a much-loved butterfly house (seasonal). It is small enough not to feel overwhelming, but full of interesting things to spark curiosity.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm. Last admission is 4.30pm to the museum and 4pm to the Butterfly House.

Southsea Model Village

Near Canoe Lake, this enchanting miniature village captivates young visitors. Featuring tiny thatched houses, castles, and windmills, all serviced by a miniature railway, it is a unique attraction that feels like stepping into a storybook.

Be sure to check Southsea Model Village's website for opening times and other information before making your plans.

Practical Tips for Your Family Stay

Finding the Perfect Base

Portsmouth is a city best explored when you have a comfortable and convenient base. For families, the practicalities of a short-term let often far outweigh a standard hotel stay. An Air Maison property provides:

• Space: Separate bedrooms mean parents can relax after the kids are asleep.
• Convenience: A full kitchen allows you to prepare family meals, snacks, and save money on eating out.
• Location: Our properties are perfectly situated near key transport links and popular attractions, ensuring less travel time and more play time.

Top Tips for Family Travel in Portsmouth

• Transport Fun: For a unique experience, consider taking the Hovercraft from Southsea across to the Isle of Wight for a quick, thrilling day trip. Locally, the city is easy to navigate by bus or even the handy bike and scooter hire systems for older children.
• Food: Gunwharf Quays has numerous family-friendly restaurants with plenty of space and varied menus. Along the Southsea Common, you will find traditional seaside cafes perfect for ice cream and a quick bite.
• Timing: Check the tides and naval activity schedule - watching a major warship sail out of the harbour is an unexpected thrill.

Ready to book your Portsmouth getaway?

Portsmouth offers a dynamic and educational backdrop for a brilliant family holiday. Whether your children are fascinated by the mighty ships of the Historic Dockyard, enjoy a little competitive spirit on the pier, or simply want to run around on the wide expanse of Southsea Common, the city is equipped to deliver adventure.

By combining naval history with expansive green spaces and engaging indoor activities, Portsmouth truly is one of the UK’s best destinations for family days out.

When planning your ultimate Portsmouth family adventure, choose an Air Maison short-term let for the perfect, comfortable home base. Check our availability today and start planning your stay.