But never fear, because Portsmouth and its surrounding area does have an abundance of fantastic places you can visit for free so there are choices come rain (more likely) or shine (we can hope).
Here are 13 fantastic ideas which will not break the bank this February half term!
5. Cumberland House Natural History Museum
There’s lots going on at Portsmouth Natural History Museum, Cumberland House, in Eastern Parade, on top of its usual free exhibitions and attractions. On February 18 from 10am until midday you can learn more about minibeasts. After a minibeast hunt adventure in the garden, build your own mini bug home or minibeast habitat to take away with you or put up near the museum’s minibeast hotel to encourage wildlife to the garden. Then Mineral Day will take place on February 19 from 10am until 3.30pm. You can meet mineralogists from Southampton Mineral and Fossil Society who will bring along a display of their own objects, as well as showing some of the minerals that they have been working on in the museum store. Details at: https://portsmouthnaturalhistory.co.uk/ Photo: Sophie Lewis
6. Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill
Entry is free of charge at the impressive and historic Fort Nelson. Visitors can explore the extensive Royal Armouries collection and watch some of the incredible artillery in action during regular live firing demonstrations, as well as learning the fascinating history of the fort’s use as a military base. This February half term junior detectives can have a go at solving a murder mystery. Budding investigators can pick up a Victorian crime file on arrival, examine the crime scene and gather some evidence to start their quest. The free event takes from February 17 to 21. Visitors are asked to book their free tickets online at www.royalarmouries.org to guarantee their visit, as there are capacity limits in place on site. Picture: Chris Moorhouse (jpns 130324-32) Photo: Chris Moorhouse
7. Southsea Promenade walk
The promenade and new sea defences between Blue Reef and South Parade Pier is the perfect place for a half term stroll. You can even take in the views at the fabulous 'Theatre of the Sea'. You can then carry onto the park area at Canoe Lake or grab an icecream on the pier (because we all know little ones love icecream all year round!) Picture: Chris Moorhouse (150624-83) Photo: Chris Moorhouse
8. College Park
Portsmouth is blessed with so many fantastic parks. One of our favourites is at College Park in Copnor. As well as a the park off Kirby Road boasts a pet area with small animals and aviaries containing exotic birds. Photo: Mike Cooter