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

5. Southsea Common

Horse and Carters' Parade, Southsea Common, about 1910

Photo: The News archive

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6. Southsea Common

The children's boating and bathing pool, near Southsea Castle. It was constructed so that even the tiniest children could paddle. To the forefront can be seen a sailor in square rig, home on leave perhaps with the family. In the distance the Queens Hotel overlooks Southsea common. The site is now Blue Reef Aquarium.

Photo: The News archive

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7. Southsea Common

Looking across Southsea Common from Clarence Pier. Fantastic crowds walking along Pier Road in the 1920's.

Photo: The News archive

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8. Southsea Common

400 ex-servicemen conclude King’s Birthday Parade with a march-past on Southsea Common. Picture: The News archive.

Photo: The News archive

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