Things to do in Portsmouth: 11 of the best activities this weekend including Paddington at Spinnaker Tower

From half marathon races to soaking up some culture in our fascinating museums, here are some of the best activities on offer in the Portsmouth area this weekend - taking place on Saturday, February 17 and Sunday, February 18.

Meet and greet Paddington Bear at Spinnaker Tower

The nation’s favourite marmalade-loving bear is coming to Spinnaker Tower on Friday 16 and Saturday 17. Children will get to meet Paddington Bear at different times throughout the day, and can enjoy free hot chocolate, colouring, and an exciting free trail around the tower. What’s more, Portsmouth residents can enjoy a 20 per cent admission discount when booking. Tickets cost £14.40 and can be bought here: https://www.spinnakertower.co.uk/events/event/meet-greet-paddington-bear/.

Aspex Workshops – Family Saturdays

Those looking to get creative during the half term period need look no further than the Aspex Workshops’ weekly Family Saturdays events. Families can expect to work with artistic techniques such as painting and collage making, and young children of all abilities can take part and join in the fun. The event is free but donations of £3 are encouraged. You can attend at Aspex Workshops Learning Space, Gunwharf Quays – 11am-1pm on Saturday, February 17.

Southsea Model Village opens for new season

Southsea Model Village, in Eastney Esplanade, welcomed visitors back for a new season on Saturday, February 10. It comes after vandals broke in and attacked the model village - in Eastney Esplanade - in December last year, causing damage estimated to cost around £1,000. You can find out more about the beloved attraction here:

Join a Parkrun

Parkruns are free weekly races held across the country – including in Portsmouth. You can find your race on the Parkrun website, and for more details about the best Parkruns in and around Portsmouth, see here: Parkruns: Courses in Portsmouth, Fareham, Havant, Lee-on-the-Solent and Whiteley and what they are like to run.

Join a gym

Its that time of year again when many people make an effort to get their health back on track, or even join a gym for the first time. We’ve put together a list of some of the area’s best gyms, with all the information you need to get started. Here are some of the best options: Portsmouth gyms to join in 2024 including David Lloyd, Village, and the Mountbatten Centre.

Walk The Millenium Promenade

The Millennium Promenade is a 3km walking route which takes those who follow it across Portsmouth’s historic waterfront. Follow the anchors imprinted in the pavement and you’ll find yourself passing landmark like the Spinnaker Tower, Clarence Pier and the Round and Square towers in Old Portsmouth. Start your free tour of the city by finding the first anchor at Spur Redoubt near Clarence Pier.

Visit Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery

Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery has plenty of excellent – and free – displays on local history, and is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10am and 5pm.

A statement on the museum’s website reads: “discover the world of Sherlock Holmes, see fascinating works of art, trace the history of Portsmouth FC and a whole load more besides.”

For more information, visit https://portsmouthmuseum.co.uk/.

Portsmouth/ Langstone Coastal Half Marathons 2024 Weekender

Runners can tackle two scenic races on Saturday, February 17 and Sunday, February 18. Tickets cost £39.50 and the routes start at The Ferry Boat Inn on Hayling Island and The D-Day Story in Southsea respectively. Find out more details here: https://www.fitprorob.biz/event/portsmouth-coastal-half-marathon-2023/.

Visit the Mary Rose Museum

The Mary Rose Museum, in Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard, offers a fascinating glimpse into Tudor history with thousands flocking to see it every year. It is one of the cities main tourist attractions but shouldn't be overlooked by locals either.

Go for a muddy puddle walk

There is still fun to be had in the Portsmouth area when it’s damp underfoot. Inspired by the antics of Peppa Pig, we’ve put together a list of the best walks to enjoy the simple joy of splashing in a muddy puddle. Get your wellies at the ready and explore some of the best family walks near the city which are just as fun come rain or shine: 10 Peppa Pig muddy puddle walks around Portsmouth.

Enjoy a free Portsmouth day out

A great day out in the island city doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Read on here for 8 of the city's best free attractions – and watch our reporter see them all in one day out.