WATCH: I love this stunning view of Portsmouth from Portsdown Hill which is away from the crowds

There are many places to get a fabulous view of Portsmouth, with the main carpark at the top of Portsdown Hill one of the most popular - especially with its food vans making it the perfect place to enjoy an ice-cream or burger while admiring our city.

But my own favourite place to go to enjoy views is just a little bit further along the hill close to The George pub at a place, quirkily named on Google maps as Big ol' Hill top.

It is a smaller carpark and you need to bring your own refreshments - so at least it saves you a few pennies - and be aware of the rather narrow entrance as you turn into the carpark thanks to the positioning of the posts. But is so much quieter as a spot to have a picnic, walk the dog (or the family) up and down the hillside towards Drayton - or just sit and soak up the views.

Watch the video embedded in this story to see a taste of this view.

I love the fact that you can see all of the way across to Hayling Island on the east and across to Gosport, Port Solent and Portchester on the west - as well as great views across the Solent out over to the Isle of Wight. You also have the option to walk up the hill from the Drayton end thanks to a number of pathways to the grassy area of the hill from the roads on the south side.

I’d love to know where your favourite views of the city are! Let me know at [email protected].