Your Portsmouth guide
Portsmouth is a city brimming with maritime heritage, cultural riches, and modern allure, making it a magnet for tourists from near and far. As the birthplace of the British Royal Navy, Portsmouth boasts a vast naval history all of which is showcased through iconic attractions like the HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose Museum. Beyond its maritime legacy, Portsmouth dazzles with its vibrant cultural scene, featuring world-class museums, galleries, and theatres that celebrate art, history, and performance. The city's scenic waterfront provides stunning al fresco dining and vibrant harborside activity, while its charming cafes, restaurants, and shops beckon visitors to explore and indulge. With its blend of seafaring tradition, breathtaking views, and diverse attractions, Portsmouth offers a truly unforgettable experience for tourists eager to discover the timeless charm and maritime splendour of this historic city.
Need some travel inspiration? Here are three reasons why Portsmouth needs to make your travel list:
- Isle of Wight Ferries - Portsmouth serves as a major gateway to the Isle of Wight, with regular ferry services operating between the city's port and the island. The ferry journey offers scenic views of the Solent and the coastline.
- Ben Ainslie Racing Headquarters - Portsmouth is home to the headquarters of Ben Ainslie Racing, a British sailing team led by Olympic gold medalist Sir Ben Ainslie. The team competes in prestigious sailing events around the world.
- Birthplace of Charles Dickens - Portsmouth is the birthplace of the renowned Victorian author Charles Dickens. The house where he was born, now known as the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum, is open to visitors.
Transport
There are two main train stations located in Portsmouth. These are Portsmouth Harbour and Portsmouth & Southsea.
- Portsmouth Harbour will connect you to London Waterloo and Cardiff. This station is fully staffed and has accessible ticket machines. There is partial step-free access across the station but there are ramps for platform-to-train access. For more information on accessibility features please follow the link to the website
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/travelling-with-us/at-the-station/portsmouth-harbour. - Portsmouth & Southsea has step-free access across the entire station. Ramps are available for easy transfer from platform to train. There is an accessible toilet on site and this station is fully manned, meaning there will be plenty of staff available for assistance. Portsmouth & Southsea will connect passengers to Brighton, Cardiff, and London Waterloo. Visit the website for more details
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/travelling-with-us/at-the-station/portsmouth-and-southsea.
Portsmouth First Buses have low floor access and a designated wheelchair space on board their buses. Wheelchair users will have priority to use this over prams, buggies, and standing passengers. Please visit the website for more information and routes.
https://www.firstbus.co.uk/bus-accessibility
Though there are not many options for taxis in Portsmouth you will still be able to book an accessible vehicle via Starline Minicabs should you need one. You can call 01243 531666 or visit http://www.starlineminicabs.co.uk/hire-our-fleet/disabled-access-vehicles/.
Hotel
It's important to stay at a hotel that is fully accessible to your needs. We recommend you book at one of Portsmouth's many disability-friendly hotels. We have listed three top-notch hotels below that we think you'll love!
Portsmouth Mariott Hotel ⭑⭑⭑⭑ prices from £103* per night
This hotel has mobility accessible rooms including modified bathrooms to accommodate wheelchairs. The main entrance is accessible, as are the rooms, restaurants, and the fitness centre. To book and read more about the accessibility features of this hotel please visit the website. Alternatively, you can call +44 23-9238 3151 for more information.
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/pmeha-portsmouth-marriott-hotel/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0
Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth - North ⭑⭑⭑⭑ prices from £154* per night
Wheelchair users will find the main entrance accessible, as well as the restaurants and public toilets. There are three accessible rooms available to book, with one including a walk/roll-in shower. You can call 00800 80 80 0800 or visit the hotel's website for further details and to book.
https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/gb/en/portsmouth/pmesp/hoteldetail/amenities
Ibis Budget Portsmouth ⭑⭑⭑⭑ prices from £78* per night
The Ibis Budget is a great saver-option that doesn’t compromise on accessibility. It is accessible to wheelchair users and has six rooms designed specifically for guests with reduced mobility.
ou can book via the website or you can call 023 9273 6386 to find out if this option is right for you. Please note that the website does not show pictures of the accessible rooms.
https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/ibis-budget-portsmouth.en-gb.html
*prices correct 13.03.24 on booking.com
