Waterside glamping near Portsmouth
A maritime city, international port, and beach resortâPortsmouth does it all.
- â
- â
- Portsmouth
Popular camping styles for Portsmouth
Waterside glamping near Portsmouth guide
Overview
Portsmouth is one of the UKâs most important ports and a popular cruise port of call, with passenger ferries setting sail for France, Spain, and the Channel Islands. Discover the cityâs maritime heritage at the Historic Dockyard, climb the Spinnaker Tower for a magnificent view across the Channel, or enjoy a picnic in Victoria Park. Sunny days are best spent at Southsea Beach, where youâll also find the cityâs only camping ground. While youâre there, visit Southsea Castle, cruise around Canoe Lake on a pedal boat, and stroll along the South Parade Pier.
Top things to do in Portsmouth
Some of Britainâs most-recognisable historic ships, including HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, have found a permanent dock at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the cityâs flagship tourist attraction. If camping near Portsmouth, itâs likely that this and the National Museum of the Royal Navy Portsmouth are on your list of things to do, but there's plenty more to see too.
Hop aboard a harbour boat tour, head up the Emirates Spinnaker Tower for far-reaching south coast views, or visit King Henry VIIIâs Southsea Castle. Shingley Southsea beach also stretches east of the castle as a must-visit spot for seaside fun.
Just across the harbour from Portsmouth is Gosport, where thereâs more maritime history, beaches, and watersports. In the other direction, itâs not far to the classic seaside destination of Hayling Island. Southampton, the historic city of Winchester, the South Downs National Park, and the New Forest are all about half an hourâs drive away.
Where to go
West Hampshire
The neighbouring port of Southampton is the gateway to the New Forest National Park. With its ancient forests, wildlife reserves, and wooded glades, itâs a paradise for campers. Choose from 5-star holiday parks with all the mod-cons, peaceful tent-only campsites surrounded by nature, or quirky glampsites hidden among the trees. All with access to the parkâs network of walking, cycling, and horseback riding trails.
English Channel Coast
South coast beach resorts Brighton and Worthing are within day-trip distance of Portsmouth, but there are beach breaks right on the cityâs doorstep too. Neighbouring Hayling Island is a family favourite windsurfing hotspot, with blue flag beaches and sandy shores. Bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts can also explore the Chichester Harbour AONBâtake a boat cruise or bike tour for the best views.
South Downs
With more than 600 square miles of open countryside, the South Downs AONB provides plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds. Hike through rolling hills and river valleys along the South Downs Way, camp out at secluded backcountry campsites, and enjoy stargazing around a campfire. Donât miss the twisted yew forest at Kingley Vale and the soaring white sea cliffs at the Seven Sisters.
Isle of Wight
Ferries from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight take less than 30 minutes, and Englandâs largest island has historic towns, beaches, and countryside all in easy reach. Explore nearly 500 miles of hiking and cycling trails, try windsurfing or parasailing along blue flag beaches, or visit the medieval Carisbrooke Castle. Camping on the island is just as funâcamp by the beachside, spend a night in a houseboat or vintage caravan, or time your visit for the annual Isle of Wight music festival.
When to go
Portsmouth is a year-round destination, whether attending a summer festival or browsing the Christmas markets in winter. July and August are busiest, with a steady flow of travellers arriving at the port, and itâs best to book ahead if visiting at this time. Each season has its highlight. Go hiking and wildlife-watching in the South Downs in spring, admire the fall foliage in the New Forest, or head to the beach in summer.
Know before you go
- Portsmouth has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip.
- Portsmouth has public transport links to many of the surrounding towns and attractions, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
- Most campsites require advance booking, and many ask for the full payment upfront. Be sure to check opening dates, as some campsites close in the winter months.
- Wild camping is illegal throughout Hampshire.
