A very early view here with the Naval Memorial and a sparse, recently landscaped Common giving a open vista across to the seafront. The postcard is postmarked 1937. The finial on the top of the dome on the bandstand carried the symbols of the City of Portsmouth, the Star and Crescent, reflected the new status of Portsmouth which had been made a city in 1926.
A very early view here with the Naval Memorial and a sparse, recently landscaped Common giving a open vista across to the seafront. The postcard is postmarked 1937. The finial on the top of the dome on the bandstand carried the symbols of the City of Portsmouth, the Star and Crescent, reflected the new status of Portsmouth which had been made a city in 1926.

From the circus to the miniature railway - Southsea Common's history in photos

Southsea Common has been a place to meet and hold events for years.

By Deborah Croker
Monday, 10th August 2020, 4:40 pm
Updated Tuesday, 11th August 2020, 10:13 am

Here are some great images dating back to around 1898.

The gallery gives an insight into the past – included are the circus, the old boating lake, ploughing up the common, Kings Birthday Parade and the miniature railway that once ran.

So many memories and so much has happened on this green space over the years.

MORE RETRO PHOTOS: Cascades Shopping Centre | Southsea piers | Pubs we’ve loved and lost

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1. Southsea Common

Billy Smart’s circus taking over Southsea Common in the summer of 1958.

Photo: The News archive

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2. Southsea Common

Western Parade, Southsea in 1898. Look at those sun blinds.

Photo: The News archive

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3. Southsea Common

Lord Beresford inspecting Portsmouth Volunteer Corp on Southsea Common. Undated

Photo: The News archive

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4. Southsea Common

The King’s birthday parade on Southsea Common. A 1907 postcard showing the days when the King’s birthday was celebrated.

Photo: The News archive

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