Portsmouth Tourist Information

Backpax Magazine

Visitors Guide to Portsmouth & The South Downs Way

PORTSMOUTH

One of Britain's favourite waterfront destinations, Portsmouth, is crammed with things to do. Portsmouth presents a stark contrast of old and new. The Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth’s newest landmark stands close to the Historic Dockyard which presents some of the finest maritime heritage in the world. The city is home to many museums covering all aspects of the city’s history as well as the award-winning Gun Wharf Quays with over 20 bars, designer shopping, nightclubs, cinema and bowling. Charles Dickens was born here. You can observe his humble beginnings at the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum. Sherlock Holmes was created here, under the pen of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Devotees can uncover more about the great sleuth at the exhibition, A Study in Sherlock, at the City Museum. With a vast array of shops, each shopping district offers something a little different. When you need reviving, try some local real ale. Order a pint of Frigate or Invincible or for something really different try some ‘Weapons Grade’ ginger beer. When you leave, like every old sea-dog, you’ll be saying, “I’ll be back.”

by David McLoughlin

SOUTH DOWNS WAY

160 kilometres of wild English countryside, from peaks and valleys to white chalk cliffs and rugged coastline, the South Downs way is spectacularly tranquil. Take in the views by foot, by bike or on horse-back, stop off at a range of homely pubs and picturesque villages. For that much needed escapism, that rejuvenating freedom of the wilderness, the South Downs Way is the perfect treatment. Accommodation is amply provided for with campsites along the trail and a wide selection of bunk barns like Gumber Bothy where you can enjoy the home comforts of a hot shower, comfy beds and a kitchen.