With both beaches and the countryside on our doorstep – as well as a whole host of tourist attractions which keep visitors flocking to Portsmouth – we can be spoilt for choice for things to do, even on a miserable day. We know there is an abundance of walks and parks to visit, but we have all had days where we are scratching our heads thinking of new ideas. So we have put together this guide of places to visit which may help to inspire you and your family.
1. Game Over
Tucked away in an Old Portsmouth basement is complete heaven for any gamers in the family thanks to the city's only Video Game Cafe. Game Over can be found at 16 High Street and offers two-hour sessions were you can enjoy a huge variety of game sand consoles from the Vectrex to the Game Cube, from Playstation 1 to Pong on the Binatone TV Master IV. Each session costs £5. www.gameover.cafe Photo: Game Over
2. Hilsea Pump Track
The pump track in Hilsea is free to use and open to all ages and abilities with BMX bikes and scooters with its bends, loops and jumps making it a popular destination. Its proximity next to a park, Hilsea Lido and the splash park, and South Coast Wakepark make it a perfect spot for all of the family. Photo: MRW
3. Southsea Model Village
A must-visit place with the family is the fabulous Southsea Model Village which boasts not only its own miniature buildings and people but also its own miniature railway as well. The village at Eastney Esplanade is open at weekends from 10.30am - 4.30pm and at school holiday and other peak times. Entry costs £6 for adults and £5 for children. https://www.southseamodelvillage.biz/ Picture: Keith Woodland (170421-2) Photo: Keith Woodland
4. Canoe Lake
With a great park, mini golf, and of course the swan boats, Canoe Lake is a fantastic family destination to visit all year round. The area also has cafes is right next to Cumberland House and is, almost literally, a stone's throw away from the beach too. Picture: Habibur Rahman Photo: Habibur Rahman