Best Places to Stay in Portsmouth
The revitalised docks area and Gunwharf Quays are top spots for a stay in Portsmouth, especially if you want to be close to attractions, shopping, and all the conveniences you need. Here, you’ll find iconic sights like HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose Museum, not to mention the historic Portsmouth Dockyard. It’s also a short walk to where you can catch the hop-on tour boats around Portsmouth Harbour. While you’re here, don’t miss the famous Spinnaker Tower, the Aspex Portsmouth arts venue, and a range of shopping outlets. If you arrive by train, Portsmouth Harbour station drops you right in the lively heart of the city. And for those venturing across to the Isle of Wight? You’ve got three ferry options to Ryde and Fishbourne, as well as one to Gosport, just across the water. For international ferries, head to the north end of the port at the larger terminal. If you’re heading into the city centre, get off the train at Portsmouth and Southsea station for a taste of the original city centre, featuring high-street shops, pubs, bars, parks, and the university.
Make your way to Southsea for a relaxed seaside vibe. Enjoy a stroll along the esplanade or a dip at the beach. You're just a hop away from the cathedral and Clarence Pier amusement park, all backed by the green expanses of Southsea Common. There's loads for the kids, too—from the D-Day Story museum and Cumberland House Natural History Museum to the aquarium and the indoor adventure centre, Exploria.
Where to Stay with Your Family in Portsmouth
Portsmouth is brilliant for families, with heaps of fun activities to keep everyone entertained, whatever the weather. The Holiday Inn Portsmouth is ideally located between Southsea beach and the bustling Gunwharf Quays shopping hub, plus it's close to the exciting Clarence Pier amusements. This modern hotel offers great value, with plenty of family and twin rooms available. A standout perk is that kids aged 17 and under can stay for free when sharing a room with their parents, and up to two kids aged 12 and under eat free with an adult ordering from the main menu. Plus, there's an indoor heated pool, perfect if the sea's a bit too nippy.
Where to Find Cheap Hotels in Portsmouth
Finding a cheap hotel in Portsmouth is a breeze, even in the busy city centre. The Ibis Portsmouth Centre is clean, modern, and comfortable, with room options for all kinds of group sizes, often priced around €50 a night. There are also three Premier Inns: Premier Inn Portsmouth City Centre, Premier Inn Portsmouth Dockyard, and Premier Inn Southsea. Each is conveniently situated—whether you’re looking for city centre vibes, historic docks, or beach access. They offer everything you love about Premier Inn, including comfy beds and reliable service, and you can usually find rooms for under €70 a night. If you're happy to be a little further out, the Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth - North offers stays at around €65 a night. Their en-suite rooms are spacious and stylish, and there’s a bright restaurant with outdoor seating for those sunny days.
Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller
Tons of great options abound for solo travellers exploring Portsmouth. The Ship Leopard Boutique Hotel is perfect for adults, boasting a charming Georgian façade right by the historic dock. The rooms are modern with lovely views of the harbour, plus they offer breakfast. For a more luxurious option, the Florence Suite Boutique Hotel is a stylish four-star spot with elegant décor, plush furnishings, and a sunny courtyard for dining. Stattons Hotel, another chic four-star boutique in Southsea, promises modern luxury and comfort, with some lovely single rooms for solo guests. If you're a solo business traveller, consider the Village Hotel Portsmouth. It's a budget-friendly four-star hotel just outside the city centre in the Lakeside area, and it’s super handy for access from the M27. On top of that, it has a gym, pool, pub, Starbucks, and plenty of spaces for meetings or work, along with speedy Wi-Fi to keep you connected.
