The best green spaces in Portsmouth and the surrounding area to enjoy this half-term
These are some of our favourite places to enjoy the sun this half-term holiday.
With half-term in full swing and families looking to make the most of the ongoing heatwave, we have no shortage of green spaces around here perfect for picnics, play and a few hours outdoors.
From lakeside excursions to wide open fields and woodland trails, these are some of the best spots for families in Portsmouth and the surrounding area his half-term.
Are there any you prefer that aren’t on this list, or hidden gems that other people need to be told about? Make sure you let us know.
Baffins Pond - Portsmouth
Baffins Pond remains one of the city’s most beloved family favourites. The pond is home to ducks, swans and geese, making it ideal for younger children who enjoy wildlife spotting. A circular path wraps around the water, while the surrounding lawns offer plenty of room for a picnic or a kickabout.
The park is open all day and is also one of Portsmouth’s Green Flag award-winning spaces, having been awarded the title for multiple years.
Canoe Lake - Southsea
A literal stone’s throw away frm the seafront, Canoe Lake in Southsea is incredibly popular, and absolutely packed out on sunny days.
Families can combine a stroll around the lake with the nearby seafront, splash area and playgrounds. Its mix of open grass, water views and easy access to cafés makes it a simple choice for a relaxed half-term outing.
Holly Hill Woodland Park - Fareham
Set among mature woodland, landscaped gardens and lakes, Holly Hill feels tucked away despite being close to town. Waterfalls, bridges and winding paths make it especially fun for children to explore.
The 28-hectare reserve is managed by Fareham Borough Council and has earned repeated Green Flag recognition.
Alver Valley Country Park - Gosport
Alver Valley Country Park offers one of the biggest outdoor spaces in the area. With woodland paths, ponds, open meadows and routes suitable for scooters and bikes, it’s well suited to children with energy to burn.
Local walking guides have highlighted it as a standout destination year-round thanks to its mix of wildlife and family-friendly trails.
Staunton Country Park - Havant
Staunton Country Park continues to draw in visitors from across the area. The historic estate combines landscaped gardens, woodland walks, a lake and plenty of open space to run around. It also has visitor facilities and café options, making it easy to spend most of the day there.
Visitors have been recommending the park for families for years now, thanks to its well-maintained paths and variety of things to see.