Download - The Portsmouth Guest Guide
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Become a cultural tourist, delve into history and shop to your heart’s content.
the Portsmouth
2013
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www.visitportsmouth.co.ukIssue 1
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Welcome
the Portsmouth
2013
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Our aim is to share some ideas on how to spend your time in Portsmouth and in particular Southsea – we hope you will
enjoy exploring the UK’s only island city.As you will see there’s plenty to experience in Portsmouth – whether it be visiting the popular attractions at the Historic Dockyard (including the recently opened Mary Rose Museum) or discovering the miles of beach that runs along the Southern end of the isle of Portsea, you are sure to have plenty of fun during your visit.To help you plan your days out, we’ve compiled a few handy itineraries (see page 4) and our cover artist Dave Thompson shares his favourite haunts on page 8.We wanted to show what a funky, creative place Southsea is today – and a visit to the Strong Island website is highly recommended. www.strongisland.co.ukWe hope you enjoy your time in Portsmouth ...
Welcome to the first ever Portsmouth Guest Guide.
Jo AndrewsManaging Director The Marketing Collective
The Portsmouth Guest Guide is distributed within members of the Greater Portsmouth Hoteliers Association and Portsmouth & Southsea Hoteliers Association.
The Portsmouth Guest Guide is published by The Marketing Collective Ltd. Telephone 023 80001655.
Information correct at the time of publication. The Marketing Collective Ltd. do not endorse any of the products and service presented in the Guide, and cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage or inconvenience incurred as a result of changes to advertised information. Always check details before making arrangements. With thanks to: Portsmouth City Council, Portsmouth Hoteliers Association & Kate Thompson. Printed by Halcyon Print Management 01435 868890
www.themarketing-collective.com
MD & Editor Jo Andrews | Designer Tina Scahill.
Hampshire Top Attractions gives the city visitor a taste of the great places to visit whether your on holiday or looking for a family day out on your doorstep. Its also packed with special offer vouchers. Ask your venue reception for a copy.
The Portsmouth Visitor
Information Service is located within
the D-Day Museum on Southsea
Seafront and our highly trained staff
have a wealth of information at their
fingertips to help you make the most
of your stay in the city:
Tel: 023 9282 6722
Email [email protected]
www.visitportsmouth.co.uk
PAGE
4 Itineraries
6 Portsmouth Museums
8 Dave Thompson
10 Albert Road
11 Spinnaker Tower
12 Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
14 Royal Marines Museum
14 Mozzerella Joes Competition
15 Tenth Hole Cafe
16 Aspex Gallery
17 Make Craft
18 Blue Reef Aquarium
19 Like a tea tray
20 Hampshire Top Attractions
22 The Isle of Wight with Wightlink
23 Hamble Valley
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Here’s a handy guide to making the most of your stay in Portsmouth. We’ve a list of must do’s and a few ideas to take you off the beaten track.
Itinerary One Itinerary Two
Itineraries
seaside Fun for All the Family:The UK’s only island city boasts a
magnificent promenade running from
Eastney to Old Portsmouth.
Along the length of the beach are a
plethora of attractions for all ages – many
evoke memories of traditional seaside
holidays of the past with swan-shaped
pedaloes on Canoe Lake and the nearby
pitch and putt. The Tenth Hole, a popular
cafe sitting alongside the course, is well
known for its eye-poppingly large cakes
and is a great place for breakfast too.
Southsea Castle is the place where Henry
VIII watched the Mary Rose sink, now
it’s a great place to visit and the kids will
have hours of fun exploring the passages
below ground.
The Yellow Kite cafe is based at the
castle and uses the best local fair trade
ingredients. It is a splendid place to stop
for a bite to eat and it’s also worth noting
a champagne bar is open every Friday
evening from 6pm to 9pm during the
summer.
Every weekend throughout the summer
there is live music from an assortment
of musicians at the Band Stand. Pack a
picnic and prepare to enjoy great music,
a party atmosphere and one of the best
backdrops in the world. (You will see
everything from warships to sailing ships,
hovercrafts, ferries and pleasure boats
traversing the Solent).
Clarence Pier boasts fourteen rides and
attractions that will have you screaming
with delight – and just next door you can
see the world’s longest running and only
commercial hovercraft service in Europe.
It is the quickest way to get to the Isle of
Wight and a popular pastime is to watch
as the crafts land on the beach.
There is a fascinating walk from Clarence
Pier to Old Portsmouth. You can follow
the route along the raised section with
the harbour to one side and the old town
to the other and see such landmarks as
Portsmouth Cathedral, the Square Tower
(often open for arts and crafts/vintage
events) and the Round Tower where
generations have welcomed home their
sailor sweethearts, waving as the navy
ships pass close-by
shopping, shopping, shopping:There’s no doubting the attraction of
Gunwharf Quays when it comes to
shopping. Once the former home of
HMS Vernon, the Royal Navy’s Torpedo
Branch, the site now boasts 90 designer
outlets at this great location with easy
parking – and after you’ve finished with
the shops, there are wonderful bars and
restaurants to revive you.
Nearby is Commercial Road which
houses all the major high street names
and the Cascades Shopping Centre.
While in Southsea you will find Knight and
Lee (John Lewis) in the Palmerston Road
precinct along with a large Debenhams
department store.
If you prefer to shop in independent
boutiqes, head for Marmion Road and
Albert Road where you will find everything
from antiques, artworks and artisan
chocolates. Take the time to wander and
enjoy the laid-back, atmosphere.
At the end of a shopping spree, make
your way to the Belle Isle in Osborne
Road for great food, a buzzing
atmosphere and a pitcher of Sangria.
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The Portsmouth Guest Guide: Itineraries
Itinerary ThreeCreative Portsmouth:With its long association with great
authors such as Charles Dickens and Sir
Arthur Conan Doyle, Portsmouth’s literary
heritage is well known.
Rudyard Kipling also lived for a time in
the city, you will find a house in Campbell
Road which bears a blue plaque to mark
his time in the city from 1871-77.
Portsmouth is still a creative city, with a
thriving contemporary art scene. Turner
Prize winning artist Grayson Perry
studied for a BA in fine art at Portsmouth
Polytechnic and it is home now to a
thriving creative scene.
Keep your eyes peeled on a Friday for
pieces of artwork left dotted about the
city for an appreciative audience to take
home. My Dog Sighs (featured on BBC2’s
The Culture Show) is a great proponent of
the free art scheme and you can see more
of his work by visiting www.mydogsighs.
co.uk. To see some of his spectacular
wall art in the flesh, walk down Exmouth
Road from Albert Road, past the colourful
terraced houses towards Marmion Road
and just before the junction there is a
garage on the right hand side with a
spectacular piece of his work. (Take the
time to watch My Dog Sighs - A Can is
Born on Vimeo).
On Albert Road, there’s plenty of street art
to admire, remember to look up and you
might see something quite unexpected.
At 1 Albert Road is the immensely popular
Garage Lounge – perfect for morning
coffee, wonderful lunches or fantastic tea
and cake.
Or why not wander through the
Palmerston Road precinct to sample the
delights of Like a Teatray in the Sky on
Osborne Road. Great food, lovely people,
a fun vibe and some of the most delightful
crockery you are ever likely to see.
On the August Bank Holiday weekend
(24 -25) the Victorious Festival takes place
at the Historic Dockyard with the likes of
Level 42, Maximo Park, The Cribs and
Charlotte Church – great music, stalls,
fashion and fun.
www.victoriousfestival.co.uk
If you want to know more about the
creative vibe going on in Portsmouth look
no further than www.strongisland.co.uk
for all the quirky goings on in the city.
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D-Day Museum Portsmouth’s D-Day Museum is the
UK’s only museum dedicated solely
to covering all aspects of the D-Day
landings in Normandy, France, on
6 June 1944. D-Day was a turning point
in the Second World War, and a
moment when the course of world
events depended on the allied troops
taking part.
A dramatic film-show using archival film
footage, shown in the museum’s small
theatre, captures the wartime mood.
Personal accounts and the stories of
the individuals who took part are an
integral part of the museum.
At the heart of the museum,
commemorating the D-Day landings in
1944, the 272 foot (83 metre) Overlord
Embroidery is the world’s longest
embroidery of its kind and the modern
equivalent of the Bayeux Tapestry. This
impressive museum is a memorable and
truly moving experience.
Situated on the seafront and open
daily the museum is also home to
Portsmouth Visitor Information Service.
www.ddaymuseum.co.ukOpen daily 10.30am -5.00pm (5.30pm
April – Sept), last admission 30 mins
before closing. Admission charge.
Southsea CastleBuilt in 1544, Southsea Castle was part
of a series of fortifications built by King
Henry VIII to protect the country from
invaders. This fascinating site is where
the king watched his favourite warship,
the Mary Rose, tragically capsize and
sink in 1545.
Explore the underground tunnels,
ramparts and enjoy panoramic views
from the top of the Keep to the Isle
of Wight and Solent before enjoying
locally-sourced healthy eating options
at the Yellow Kite café. This free
seafront attraction is open from March
to October.
www.southseacastle.co.ukOpen Tues – Sun, March – October,
10am – 5pm, last admission 30 mins
before closing. Free entry.
Portsmouth City Museum With free admission Portsmouth
City Museum is a popular attraction
for the whole family. You’ll discover
the interactive ‘A Study in Sherlock:
Uncovering the Arthur Conan Doyle
Collection’ where you can turn detective
and follow the trail of the ultimate
sleuth, Sherlock Holmes, and his
creator Arthur Conan Doyle, who lived
PoRTsMouTH museums
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Contact Us:
For full details please call
023 92826722 or look online at
www.portsmouthmuseums.co.uk
or email
Closures: All museums are closed
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day,
Boxing Day & New Year’s Day.
and worked in Portsmouth. Download
this thrilling free experience as you
follow in the footsteps of Sherlock on a
navigational trail. Use your smart phone
to download Magnifying Sherlock
for free from the Portsmouth Writers’
App, or hire out an iPod from the City
Museum reception desk.
The ‘Story of Portsmouth’ looks at how
life has changed in the city over the
centuries and a fine and decorative
art gallery features a wide range of
materials from the 17th century to the
present day.
From March to September 2013
you can visit the ‘Teddy Bear Story’
exhibiton from the V&A Museum of
Childhood, which celebrates the most
popular and loved toy in the world. This
touring exhibition explores the history
of the teddy bear from the first designs
based on real animals to modern
character and designer bears. There is
also a teddy themed interactive area
especially for children and families to
explore – with a Three Bears’ House
and woodland story telling area with
books, dressing up and other activities.
Secret Egypt will follow this exhibition,
opening October 2013.
www.portsmouthcitymuseums.co.uk Open Tues – Sunday + Bank
Holiday Mondays April – Sept, 10am –
5.30pm, Oct – March, 10am – 5pm, last
admission 30 mins before closing.
Free admission.
Charles Dickens’ Birthplace MuseumThe great author was born in
Portsmouth in 1812. You can learn more
about the celebrated author of Oliver
Twist, Nicholas Nickleby and many
other novels by visiting the Charles
Dickens Birthplace Museum. This small
house in the heart of the city is where
the great author’s life started and is
a fascinating look into his humble
beginnings.
www.charlesdickensbirthplace.co.ukOpen Tues – Sunday + Bank Holiday
Mondays April – Sept, 10am – 5.30pm
Last admission 30 mins before closing
Admission charge.
Cumberland House Natural History MuseumPortsmouth is a very special place for
wildlife in Britain. It has many different
habitats in a very small area, and at
Portsmouth Natural History Museum
you can explore them all. Between May
and September you can walk through
the butterfly house filled with living
insects and plants. The temperature
is kept at a high level so that we can
support exotic butterflies as well as
some beautiful foreign plants. In winter
months it is still possible to search for
caterpillars under the palm leaves but
the butterflies themselves do not fly in
the colder part of the year.
www.portsmouthnaturalhistory.co.ukOpen Tuesday to Sunday plus Bank
Holiday Mondays, 10am – 5,00pm
(5.30pm April – Sept), last admission 30
mins before closing. Free entry.
Eastney Beam Engine HouseHome to a pair of James Watt beam
engines and reciprocal pumps, restored
to their 1887 condition.
www.portsmouthmuseums.co.uk
The engine house is open the last
full weekend of every month (except
December), 1pm – 5pm. Please phone
to check the engines are in steam.
Free admission.
EventsThe museums have a varied event
programme to suit all ages with a focus
on family fun in the summer months
contact us for more information or go
online.
The Portsmouth Guest Guide: History Comes to Life
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The cover image for the Portsmouth Guest Guide was created by southsea artist Dave Thompson. He shares his inspiration and love of Portsmouth in this interview with Kate Thompson.
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His retro artworks revisit a bygone age
of glamour, recreated in the muted
tones of 1930s travel art.
Southsea based artist Dave Thompson
certainly knows how to capture a mood
with his images that depict key sites in
the island city he has called home for
the past 30 years.
He explained: “We came here 30
years ago from Newcastle. We had
just finished a three month road trip
of America and wanted to settle by
the sea, and Southsea fitted the bill
perfectly.”
Dave has worked as a commercial
artist for many years with advertising
agencies and for the past 20 years as a
freelance illustrator. He uses the latest
digital technology to create his artworks
but draws on an artistic background.
“The effects I used to create by air-
brushing can all be done on an iMac
now. When I started out, cut and paste
was exactly that, you cut things out with
a scalpel and glued them down to build
up an image. “You can achieve so much
on a screen now but I’m glad I come
from an art background.”
Dave admits his style has been
influenced by the artists who were
famous for creating the travel posters
for the London Underground. He
admires the work of Norman Wilkinson.
“I work from good photographic
references and build up the image that
way. My pictures are quite architectural.
The skill is in taking the images right
back to basics. What’s left out is more
important almost than what is left on
the page, it’s about strong lines and
shadows.
“And of course every image has my
trademark seagulls,” he said.
Ironically in the past Dave was
commissioned to create the artwork for
bus timetables for London Transport
following in the footsteps of some of the
great artists who created travel posters
for the Underground.
Dave worked with Rick and Helen
Steenhuis at the Hiscock Gallery in
Southsea to promote his images of
Portsmouth – and his works can also
be bought at their White Dog Gallery
in Lee-on-the-Solent as well as other
selected galleries.
His views of Portsmouth and beyond
have proved so popular that his body
of work now includes scenes from
Brighton and London.
Looking to the future Dave has more
local scenes to capture and is even
thinking about doing more images with
people.
“It has been great to see how my
images have taken off – there is a great
appeal for all things retro,” he said.
DAVE THOMPSONOh I do like to be beside the seaside...
Dave’s Top Tips for places To visiT
BEST SHOPS: “I love the feel of Albert Road. The shops are independent and interesting - I’m often to be found on a Friday night with my wife having a drink at the Vaults.”BEST RESTAuRANT:“I’m partial to a curry and we really enjoy a meal at the Thai restaurant in Albert Road called Hong Kong - the food is really excellent.”BEST VIEW IN SOuTHSEA: “It’s got to be the Solent - there’s always so much going on.”Dave’s work can be viewed online
at www.hiscockgallery.co.uk
or by visiting the Hiscock Gallery
in stanley street, southsea.
MY inspiration
The artist himself: Dave Thompson
*imag
es h
ere
are
by
Nor
man
Wilk
inso
n
The Portsmouth Guest Guide: Focus on Art
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Albert Road
artists and actors, an environment
for creativity to prosper where all are
welcome. Alternative artworks adorn
many of the buildings, “Little Camden on
the Coast” ? “A new Brighton Lanes?” NO
Albert Road is unique and retains its true
Portsmouth identity. This is why 100,000
people came to celebrate our wonderful
street on Love Albert Road Day 2009”
That’s how Ian Parmiter sums up why
Albert Road is so special. He recently
caused a stir by piling all the old suitcases
his shop is well known for selling one
on top of the other to create a teetering
tower of luggage and then took pride
of place astride the golden dog that
graces the rooftop of his shop.
Ian is regularly featured in the plethora
of TV programmes that encourage us
all to become amateur antiques experts
- Put Your Money Where your Mouth
Is and Antiques Road Trip. Ian is self
taught and in his third decade of trading,
specialising in quirky antiques, architectural
items and 20th Century Design.
A colourful character well known locally for
his sartorial flair that sees him favour natty
tweeds and a stylish peroxide mallen streak,
Ian has worked tirelessly to promote the
street that has been home to his business
for the past 25 years. The Love Albert Road
Festivals he pioneered attracted thousands
of people to listen to the live music and
soak up the vibe. His cool role as the
unofficial Ambassador
of Albert Road led to him being honoured by
Portsmouth City Council with a Civic Award.
“We love Albert Road Southsea, its like a village by the sea”
Little Johnny Russels
Enjoy a relaxing cold beer or glass of wine in the garden, evening DJs and live music and late license at weekends. Gourmet burgers, salads and jacket potatoes are served on saturdays and sundays and in winter, enjoy sunday roast near the open log fire.
12 – 14 Albert Road, southsea, Po5 2sH
Tel: 02392 826 502
www.littlejohnnyrussells.com
strong Island
Portsmouth & southsea’s No.1 Cultural Resource. unfunded and independent, strong Island is a local online resource designed to promote, showcase and inform people about the cities cultural scene.
Be it past, present or future strong Island keeps you up to date with photos, interviews and articles about the city.
Head Hairdressing
head is the best barbers in Portsmouth, offering top quality men’s hairdressing at an affordable price. With free wi-fi, filter coffee, great tunes, comfy sofas & late opening Monday to Friday. Phone for an appointment or simply sit & soak up the experience that is head!
53, Albert Road,Portsmouth,Po5 2sF
Tel: 07867 527693 or 07788 270643
www.headhairdressing.co.uk
Parmiters Antiques
Extraordinary & unusual items purchased, Entire house contents bought, top prices paid, Art & sculpture, Vintage Luggage, Militaria, Medals & all types of
Coins, China & Glass”
Find us in Albert Road southsea open 7 days a week Mon-sat 10am to 5pm sun 11am to 4pm
Tel: 02392293040 or 07850131414
www.ianparmiter.co.uk
“if you crave the true spirit and culture of southsea look
no further than albert road, a diverse mix of alternative
and independent shops, bars, cafes, live music venues,
vintage clothes and antique shops, with the crowning
glory The Kings Theatre standing as a beacon to mark
this historic and interesting place. A bohemian area people
truly love and care about and frequented by musicians
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View things differently at the top of Britain’s best viewing tower – the stunning 170 metre tall icon on the south Coast.Spinnaker Tower
offers views of one of
the most fascinating
sea and landscapes,
spanning 23 miles
and over 1700 years
of history. The new
i-VIEW interactive
screens bring the view
to life, and to your
fingertips. By using
incredible gigapixel panoramic photos,
this interactive view interpretation
allows you to zoom in to get a better
look at points of interest in the view
– including Nelson’s Victory and the
famous Mary Rose wreck site – as well
giving the history and stories behind
them.
There’s no need to miss out on inspiring
sea views if your trip to the seaside
brings on the rain - head instead for
Spinnaker Tower and watch the rain
clouds roll in, from the comfort of Café
in the Clouds, 105 metres above the
sea. The effects
of the changing
weather on the sea
and sky makes the
view even more
spectacular.
If you’re feeling
brave you can
venture across the
amazing glass Sky
Walk, with virtually
nothing between
you and the waves below – dare you
walk on air?! Then head up to the Sky
Deck - open to the elements and the
energising sea breeze, it’s a real hair
raising experience!
Spinnaker Tower is located in Gunwharf
Quays shopping outlet centre and just
a few minutes walk from Portsmouth
Historic Dockyard.
Venue details:
Spinnaker Tower
Gunwharf Quays,
Portsmouth, PO3 TT
www.spinnakertower.co.uk
The Portsmouth Guest Guide: Out and About
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Portsmouth Guest Guide: History
PoRTsMouTH Historic Dockyard
sails into a
NEW ERA
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These are exciting times to visit Portsmouth
Historic Dockyard following the opening of a
brand new Museum for the Mary Rose, thirty
years after she was watched on television by
millions being raised from The Solent.
The £35 million project to build an
internationally-renowned museum and complete the
conservation, reunites the hull of the Mary Rose with many of
the 19,000 Tudor artefacts recovered from the seabed and is
a truly mesmerising experience.
Showcasing the very best in 21st century
architecture and construction, and the
finest collection of 16th century artefacts
in the world, for the first time visitors
can see the ship with its preserving
sprays switched off and witness the final
phase of the hull’s conservation through
windows into a ‘hotbox’ as up to 100 tons
of water is now removed from the ship’s
timbers.
New galleries contain some of the
thousands of objects recovered, in
context, running the length of the ship,
corresponding to deck levels so visitors
can experience what the decks would have looked like
moments before the Mary Rose sank. Six themed galleries
tell the personal stories and working lives of the crew on
board.
The Mary Rose is in very distinguished company at
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard as it’s the only place in
the world where visitors can feel at first-hand what it was
really like to serve and fight on board the ships that shaped
Britain’s history – alongside modern warships of the Royal
Navy. It’s a full day out that stays with all ages forever.
The three ships featured are among the most famous
warships in the world - Mary Rose, HMS Victory and HMS
Warrior 1860. Their appeal endures because of the graphic
and moving stories associated with them. But it’s more
than that. It’s the social history about life on-board and in
the wider society; the bravery and heroism of generations
of serving personnel and their families and their compelling
stories; the technology that meant Britain led the world
and the anecdotes which have fashioned our language for
centuries.
This year also sees continuing work on the new Babcock
galleries at the National Museum of the
Royal Navy, due to open in spring 2014,
the centenary of the start of World War I,
marking the Navy’s vital role.
HMS – Hear My Story will be the major
exhibition situated in the brand new
galleries, telling the undiscovered stories
from the ordinary men, women and ships
which have made the Navy‘s amazing
history over the last 100 years, the
century of greatest change.
Add the interactive Action Stations where
visitors can fly a helicopter or climb the
UK’s tallest indoor climbing tower and a
Harbour Tour that brings passengers up close and personal
with modern Royal Navy
warships, showing why
Portsmouth remains
one of the world’s most
important harbours;
then it’s clear why
Portsmouth Historic
Dockyard often appears
as people’s favourite
museum!
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Visitor Centre
Victory Gate, HM Naval Base,
Portsmouth PO1 3LJ.
Visitor Centre (open daily
between 10am - 5pm)
023 9283 9766
www.historicdockyard.co.uk
The Portsmouth Guest Guide: Heritage
Image taken by: Steve Wallace
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The Royal Marines Museum, with its stunning seafront location and vast picnic lawns, celebrates the history of the Royal Marines from their origins in 1664 to present
day. Formerly the officers Mess, the magnificent, stately buildings
provide the perfect setting to explore and learn about
the thrilling stories of the extraordinary people who have become the elite fighting force – the Royal Marines.Through a series of
interactive displays and
exhibition galleries spreading
over three floors, you can follow
a Commando recruit through
his gruelling training and on to
deployment around the world;
creep through the jungle and
experience the sights and
sounds of tropical swamps, and there’s even a snake, or take
a trip down memory lane in our WW2 home front kitchen.
Marvel at the extensive collection and unrivalled
archive exhibits gathered from around the world to
illustrate the remarkable acts of heroism and bravery
of the Royal Marines. Featuring over 8000 distinctive
medals, the highlight of the Medal Room is the
complete collection of all 10 Victoria Crosses awarded
to Marines, first in 1854 to the more recent in 1945.
This family friendly Museum has hands-on interactive games,
simulators, sight/sound and touch experiences and a new
assault course. There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor activities
including demonstrations and children’s participatory holiday
and half term events from ‘Rescue Mission’ and ‘Making the
Peace’ to ‘Midnight Strike’ and ‘Commando Fit’ all included
in the ticket price. Finish your visit by climbing aboard the
rigid raider and assault course whilst enjoying lunch in our
award winning café the Quartermaster’s Kitchen or a browse
in our Museum shop. Visit as many times as you like, free,
for a whole year by gift aiding your admission ticket.
The museum features an extensive family events calendar and
regular special exhibitions, see our website for more details.
Royal Marines Museum
Venue details:
Royal MArines
Museum, Southsea,
Hampshire, PO4 9PX
023 9281 9385
www.royalmarines
museum.co.uk
Win a Meal for Four at Mozzarella JoesWalking along Southsea beach is sure
to give you an appetite, and there is no
better place to stop for a tasty bite to
eat than Mozzarella Joes.
No other eaterie on the beach has a
better view of the Solent, you can watch
the ships and sailing boats go passing
by as you tuck into freshly baked pizza,
tasty pasta or delicious burgers.
We are giving away a meal for four to
enjoy, and all you have to do to be in
with a chance of winning is email
and quote Portsmouth Guest Guide
competition. Closing date 31st
December. Winner will be drawn
before the 31st January 2014 and
the meal must be taken before the
31st March 2014
15
The Tenth Hole is the tea rooms adjoining southsea Golf Links and it is a joy to behold. Run by a young and enthusiastic team, the cafe situated on Eastern Parade is a popular haunt for locals and visitors alike. Especially at the weekend when they like to sit outside and enjoy everything from a cooked breakfast, tasty lunch or sumptuous tea.
Venue details:
The Tenth Hole, Eastern
Parade, Southsea,
Portsmouth, PO4 9RF
02392 830 009
www.thetenthhole.co.uk
The Tenth Hole
Here’s a real gem, tucked away in sunny southsea – and well worth a visit.
Breakfasts include the traditional
full-English variety as well as smoked
salmon and scrambled eggs served
on a toasted English muffin, Billy’s
Breakfast Burger (sausage meat burger,
2 rashers of crispy bacon, and a fried
egg in a toasted muffin) or Croque
Madame (toasted bloomer bread,
topped with hand carved ham, rarebit
sauce & a fried egg).
In addition to doorstep sandwiches and
jacket potatoes, you can also choose
from a lunch menu that includes the
Tenth Hole salad (roasted butternut
squash, beetroot, toasted pinenuts,
goat’s cheese, spicy cous cous) and
quiche of the day (with coleslaw, salad
& new potatoes).
Renowned for its eye-popping display
of cakes, the Tenth Hole can also
satisfy your palate with tasty, good
quality food as well as blow you away
with a towering confection of cream
and sponge.
You can order high tea which includes
a round of sandwiches, choose from:
ham & mustard mayo; egg mayonnaise
or cheddar & chilli jam; two mini scones
served with clotted cream and jam and
a selection of delectable sweet treats.
High Tea costs £10 per person and
includes a pot of tea or mug of coffee.
As you walk into the Tenth Hole it is
the variety of cakes that immediately
grabs your attention. The selection of
cakes includes everything from coffee
and walnut sponge to cheesecakes,
pavlovas and a particular treat known
as chocolate lumpy, bumpy cake.
The cafe is so keen on its cake it has
a featured confection of the week – at
the time of writing it was a delicious
chocolate and custard choux ring with
strawberries.
A perfect visit has to include a round on
the links – they date back to 1914 and
in the cafe, there are some great photos
of genteel folk tackling the torment of
the nine hole course.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve never swung
a golf club before, you are sure to enjoy
time spent making your way around
the course. The pitch and putt is open
seven days a week from 8am and the
last tee off is at 5.30pm (adults £3.70,
concessions £3.50).
And not just a game for a sunny day, it’s
almost more fun in inclement weather
with the wind blowing off the sea and
the thought of a yummy breakfast at
the Tenth Hole to come.
Another nice touch is the hot water
bottles and blankets for those brave
enough to opt for al fresco lunch or tea
when the sun isn’t shining.
To find out more about what’s going on
at the Tenth Hole go to
www.thetenthhole.co.uk
The Portsmouth Guest Guide:Eat and be Merry
16
The seasons at Aspex are based around
questions – for example, Does Making
Things Make Us Human? or Where Does
Progress End? Exhibitions, talks and
participatory events are programmed
around these questions, helping explore
possible answers
with the help of their
visitors.
At the heart of the
gallery is the Aspex
Café Bar – a family
friendly space with
plenty of room
for buggies, baby
changing facilities
and food warming
facilities. For the
grown-ups, a range of
mezze, paninis, homemade cakes are
available, alongside great illy coffee,
ales, ciders and specially selected
wines. If you are in the city for a
meeting, you can use the Café Bar for
informal get-togethers, or alternatively
you can hire a larger private space
within the gallery for more formal events.
It’s not only in the Café Bar where little
ones are catered for – Aspex have a
wide range of workshops for younger
visitors, including Art Clubs for 8-13
year olds running throughout the school
holidays, and Mini Makers for toddler to
8 year olds and their
parents on Saturday
mornings. They have
also started to offer
craft workshops for
adults, supported by
Make Craft Café in
Southsea, where you
can learn some of the
skills and techniques
used by the artists
and craftspeople in
the exhibitions.
Aspex is not only a great place for art &
the family…it also has a wide range of
gifts, greetings cards and more that you
won’t find anywhere else to buy in their
Craft & Design space!
And the best thing about Aspex is…
admission is FREE! Open 11-4 Daily
find out more at www.aspex.org.uk
Formed in 1981 in the heart
of southsea, Aspex moved to
the historic Vulcan Building in
Gunwharf Quays in 2006. They
specialise in exhibiting the work
of exciting local, national and
international emerging artists,
alongside a thriving participation
programme that encourages people
of all ages to get involved with art,
craft and creative activities.
Venue details:
Aspex The Vulcan
Portsmouth, PO1 3BF
023 9277 8080
www.aspex.org.uk
Open 11am - 4pm daily
Free admission
Aspex Gallery
17
Nikki Bates was inspired to launch Make
after winning a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style
competition following her graduation
from the University of Portsmouth.
“The idea for Make was born out of a
frustration I had as a student on the
first year of my degree in 2008. I was
studying for a degree in illustration
and found it difficult to get hold of
equipment I wanted for projects because
I wasn’t following a particular course.
“I was lucky that I was in a creative
setting and I could find ways to get
hold of the equipment I needed
but for a lot of people that’s sadly
not the case,” she said.
Make offers a one-of-a-kind creative
space for people who want to embrace
craft but do not have the equipment,
space and in some cases, the know-
how to pursue it in their own homes.
And you can enjoy a refreshing
cuppa and a delectable slice of cake
to help the creative process.
In the same vein as an Internet café,
customers can come to hire sewing
machines and space. Aside from this
there is also a chance to learn.
The ethos at Make is simple - it is based
within the local community, sourcing local
people and products where possible.
“I wanted to offer something
different to sitting in a school or a
community centre,” she said.
Workshops are taught by local
craft professionals – known as
‘Makers’- in subjects as varied as
dressmaking, knitting and crochet,
patchwork and making rag rugs.
There are Wednesday night social
gatherings when you can turn up
with a craft project of your own
and create in the company of other
crafters, Tuesday Mummy Mornings
and a children’s knitting group.
As well as the workshops ‘Make’
plays host to organised events such
as birthdays, corporate gatherings,
hen days and children’s parties.
‘Make’ is also a great space to unwind in,
meet like-minded crafters at one of their
social nights or just pop down during the
day and relax with your latest project.
Venue details:
Make 4 Albert Road,
Southsea, England, PO5 2SH
023 9282 2026
www.facebook.com/
makesouthsea
MAKE it Happen – Get Crafty in Southsea.
‘Make’ is an independent studio on Albert Road in Southsea offering craft workshops in a quirky and creative setting.
DID You KNoW...
It’s oFFICIAL crafting is good for your health. The Craft Council has proved, participating in crafts has an amazing effect on reducing stress levels and helping you to relax.
The Portsmouth Guest Guide: Arts and Culture
18
Portsmouth’s award-winning
Blue Reef Aquarium is a great place
for visitors of all ages to find out more
about the wonders of the deep -
whatever the weather.
Whether you‘re dodging the showers
or escaping the heat, Blue Reef’s
innovative displays, informative talks
and feeding demonstrations will keep
the family fully entertained.
At the aquarium’s heart is the giant
ocean tank where an underwater tunnel
offers incredibly close encounters with
puffer fish, triggerfish and hundreds of
vibrant tropical fish amid the beauty
of a recreated coral reef.
Over 50 other living displays reveal the
sheer variety of life in the deep, from
tropical sharks and stingrays to giant
lobsters, elegant seahorses and playful
otters.
Don’t forget your towel and a
bucket and spade to make the most
of the aquarium’s outdoor Blue Reef
Beach Club.
Overlooking the bustling Solent the club
boasts its very own 50-tonne sandy
beach and rockpool sandpit alongside
a splash play area.
Venue details:
Clarence Esplanade,
Southsea, Portsmouth
PO5 3PB
023 9287 5222
www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk/
portsmouth
Wonders of the
DEEP
19
If you only see one thing in Southsea... – If you only get to enjoy one
thing in Southsea it has to be the
free concerts at the bandstand
by Southsea Castle. There’s
music, people, sunshine, a great
atmosphere and the Solent full
of little boats, Royal Navy ships,
helicopters – and the Isle of Wight.
Southsea Castle
www.southseacastle.co.uk
023 9282 7261
Where is the best place to see street art?– Fratton Park is one of the biggest
legal graffiti sites around and it
evolves on a weekly basis. From
the first weekend in August we will
be transforming the skate park on
Clarence Parade. It dates back to
the 1950s and is a really cool place
now being run as a charity.
Twinkle, twinkle, little bat How I wonder what you’re at! Up above the world you fly, Like a tea tray in the sky. Twinkle, twinkle, little bat How I wonder what you’re at!
Where is the best place for a romantic meal?– We like Sant yagos round the
corner from the John Lewis store
in Palmerston Road precinct. The
service is great and the food and
cocktails are wicked.
Sant yagos
www.santyagos.co.uk
02392 179636
Like a tea tray in the SkyIt’s no surprise to discover Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is the favourite book of tearoom owner Nicky aka Lilou.Like a Teatray in the Sky takes its name from the poem by
Lewis Carroll and stepping over the threshold is like entering
a different world, which she has painstakingly put together
with partner Fark.
The mis-matched furniture, 70’s geometric prints, covetable
china cups and saucers all make for a creative space that is
immediately welcoming and intriguing.
You can guarantee an interesting soundtrack - often with a
gallic influence (think Nouvelle Vague or the soundtrack from
The Artist) – and then there is the Dodo expertly created on
the wall by street artist Fark.
Nicky along with her mum are responsible for the delicious
food on offer: stop for lunch and enjoy her attention to detail
and afternoon tea is nothing short of a work of art.
“We wanted to create an atmosphere where people can relax
– this is more than a tearoom and we love the fact it is still
evolving. “You will find writers, knitters, artists – and lots of
people who just like the vibe we’ve created here,” said Fark.
Venue details:
Like a Tea Tray In The Sky
31 Osbourne Road,
Southsea, PO5 3LR
02392 731903
Follow us on
Facebook / Twitter.
The Portsmouth Guest Guide: Inspiration
20
Family FunVisit Peppa Pig World at Paultons Theme Park,
home to more than 60 family rides and attractions as
well as a collection of exotic birds and animals.
The name’s Bond - James Bond … Share in some of
that 007 magic, when you visit the record-breaking
show at Beaulieu’s National Motor MuseumYou can let off some steam with a morning of physical
activity at the New Forest Activities Centre or journey
to the Hawk Conservancy Trust in Andover where
you will find vultures, barn owls and hawks.
Sticking with the natural world, Marwell Zoo has an
astounding range of wildlife and prides itself on its
conservation work. While at Birdworld near Farnham you
can see Penguins feeding and free flying Kookaburras
Or take to the trees for an exhilarating adventure
experience with Go Ape at Moors Valley Country Park
and Itchen Valley Country Park near Eastleigh.
Visit Staunton Country Park where the grand fishing
lake and sensory garden will entrance the whole
family, while the farm is a delight for youngsters.
Family-run Longdown Activity Farm in Ashurst
has daily activities and plenty of cute animals.
A day at the seaside awaits you at Southsea Beach and
there’s always plenty of fun to be had at the Pyramids Centre with its pools and funky flumes. See spectacular
views from the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth and if
you are brave enough, venture across the glass floor.
There are over 100 hands-on interactive science and
technology exhibits idea for all the family at Intech Science Centre and Planetarium in Winchester.
Gardeners WorldExplore 200 acres of beautiful gardens at Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway in the New Forest, world-
famous for the Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons,
azaleas, camellias and rare trees and shrubs.
The Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Romsey is a 180-
acre garden paradise with a magnificent collection
of more than 42,000 plants and boasts one of the
largest Winter Gardens of its kind in Europe.
While the National Trust’s Mottisfont is set in glorious
grounds by the River Test., with a medieval priory
that was gradually changed into a country house.
Gilbert White’s House and Oates Museum nr Alton are
also well worth a visit. The naturalist is regarded as Darwin’s
inspiration and his house and gardens are a national treasure.
The New Forest Museum is packed full of displays
and activities about the New Forest National Park,
including a Family Fun Tree interactive exhibit.
Step Back in TimeWinchester is a spectacular cathedral city, where more than
15 centuries of Christian faith is captured in the glorious
architecture. After marvelling at Winchester Cathedral’s
history, why not stop for a cuppa at their elegant café? The
Great Hall in the city is home to ‘King Arthur’s Round Table’.
Close by in Alresford is the Watercress Railway Line
Discover & Explore
Visitors staying in Portsmouth are in a great position to explore the best that Hampshire has to offer. Whether you choose to take a short break or stay a little longer, there are plenty of adventures awaiting you – and here are just a few ideas to get you started...
21
www.ham
pshiretopattractions.co.uk
where you can climb aboard a carriage pulled by
either a steam or loco engine to travel through some
of the county’s famous watercress beds and alighting
at a number of character stations along the route.
Basing House in Basingstoke was once the country’s
largest private home, owned by the powerful courtier
William Paulet, Marques of Winchester. The Great
Barn, which dates back to Tudor times, is the
largest surviving, fully intact building of its kind.
Take a trip back to Victorian times with a visit to Milestone’s Museum in Basingstoke and explore a network of full size
streets inside a purpose built museum, telling the story of
Hampshire’s social, industrial and commercial history
Experience sights and sounds at Manor Farm, a
delightful historical working farm where children
can meet the animals, lend a hand in the farmhouse
or attend a Victorian school lesson.
Tudor House in Southampton tells over 800 years of
history with interactive guides and audio-visual displays,
which bring the house to life. The story of Southampton’s
maritime history is told at SeaCity Museum.
Situated on the banks of the Beaulieu River, in the heart of
the New Forest, you will find the unique and picturesque
village of Buckler’s Hard where warships for Nelson’s navy
were built. Buckler’s Hard in the New Forest story tells
the fascinating history of this unique village from its origins
as a port for importing sugar cane to its ship building.
Ahoy There...From Portsmouth explore the Isle
of Wight with Wightlink ferries or
if travelling from Southampton, red
funnel ferries and discover royal
residences, dramatic coastline and a
funky vintage vibe.
Just down the M27 is Southampton’s
neighbouring city of Portsmouth. Visit
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, home
to the world-famous ships HMS Victory
and HMS Warrior 1860. 2013 will see
the opening of the new Mary Rose Museum and the National Museum of the Royal Navy boasts
a magnificent collection illustrating our proud naval heritage.
The Blue Reef Aquarium offers a dazzling undersea
safari and if you travel to the top of the iconic Spinnaker Tower you can take in stunning views of the Solent.
Along the beach to Eastney, you will find the Royal
Marines Museum with an extensive collection of
displays gathered from around the world.
A short trip across the water takes you to Gosport where
you will find the Royal Navy Submarine Museum. You
can get a real feel for the life of a submariner by going on
board HMS Alliance, a WW2 submarine. Also, Explosion! the
Museum of Naval Firepower which tells the story of naval
warfare from the days of gunpowder to modern missiles.
To find out more about these and numerous other attractions, please visit www.hampshireattractions.co.uk For special offers and discount vouchers for more than 36 attractions visit www.hampshireattractions.co.uk/offers
The Portsmouth Guest Guide: Out and About
22
Just 23 miles wide and 13 miles deep, the
diamond-shaped island boasts some of Britain’s
most varied countryside – more than half of it
classified an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Unspoiled landscape, miles of golden beaches
and dramatic cliffs are just some of the delights
to discover, and families in search of fun, animal-lovers,
walkers, cyclists, history buffs and people of all ages with
an interest in food, heritage, wildlife and scenery will find a
treat in store.
Famous in Victorian times as the favourite home of Queen
Victoria and notorious more recently for music festivals,
sailing, and the startling dinosaur finds on its crumbling south
coast, the Isle of Wight
is crammed with both
natural and man-made
attractions, and is also
now among Britain’s
leading regional food
centres. One of the few
places in the country
where apricots are
grown, the Isle of Wight
is also home to the earliest asparagus. It boasts Britain’s
largest crop of tomatoes, 12 different kinds of garlic, wild
bass from waters around Bembridge and a world-beating
blue cheese – all of them fresh, full of flavour and home-
grown for fewer food miles. In fact the Island is packed
with local food champions and, with their help, Wightlink
has plotted a route through scenic countryside to create the
Wight Taste Trail.
One of a collection of free themed guides, designed to cater
for the differing tastes of Isle of Wight visitors, the Wight Taste
Trail profiles the very best food producers on the Island as
well as showcasing restaurants, pubs, delicatessens and farm
shops dedicated to local produce. As well as spotlighting
local food champions and inspirational chefs, the guide gives
information on Farmers’ Markets to visit, locally-made ice
cream to try, the best places to buy fresh fish, and where to
find the Ultimate Island Cream Tea.
Other Wightlink guides include a 32-stop Wight History Trail
around the living history of the Island, Wight Safaris adventure
walking guide, and Secret Wight, featuring a range of outdoor
challenges in parts of the Island away from the well-trodden
tourist path.
GET a Taste of Wight
Venue details:
Wightlink
0871 376 1000
www.wightlink.co.uk/
wighttastetrail
Easily accessible by car or on foot, the Isle of Wight is just over half an hour from the mainland, travelling on Wightlink’s fleet of seven car and passenger ferries from Portsmouth –Fishbourne or Lymington–Yarmouth or on its passenger-only catamaran service from Portsmouth Harbour–Ryde Pier Head.
23
From coast to countryside, whether your passion is heritage, culture, shopping or a fun-filled family day out, the world-renowned Hamble Valley has it all. Located to the east of Portsmouth, this area of outstanding natural beauty is quite literally at your feet.Known as the Strawberry Coast, The
Hamble Valley is set alongside the
stunning River Hamble, tucked between
the bustling cities of Southampton,
Winchester and Portsmouth
and stretching along 25 miles of
Hampshire’s coastline.
There is so much on offer with a variety
of unique family attractions from Manor
Farm, the Victorian working farm which
was the setting for the BBC’s Wartime
Farm series to Bursledon Windmill
and Bursledon Brickworks. Discover
delightfully quaint villages and charming
towns and over 1500 acres of unspoilt
countryside with five country parks.
Enjoy beautiful waterside vistas and
amble through woodlands, marshes and
meadows on one of the many walking
trails including the Strawberry Trail,
a long distance walk along the River
Hamble, the Cobbett Trail, a short walk
around the village of Botley and the
Hamble Rail Trail.
Hamble River events take place
throughout the year, attracting
world class yachtsmen and racing
enthusiasts. Competition within the
sailing world is strong and many sailors
come to showcase their skills.
Events include Hamble Week, the
Hamble Winter & Spring Series, the
Bursledon Regatta and national World
Series competitions.
The essence of a sailing lifestyle
is captured through the marinas,
chandleries, restaurants and boutiques,
located along the shoreline. Indeed,
numerous opportunities present
themselves to way anchor and
investigate the local vintage ales.
The Hamble Valley welcomes families
and is a child-friendly destination with
plenty of free and low cost activities to
keep the young and the young at hear
entertained.
Whether you are on a romantic short
break or visiting for the week with
a young family, you’ll wish you had
discovered the Hamble Valley sooner.
For further information on
glorious days out on the
River Hamble or your personal
journey through the
Hamble Valley, visit
www.hamblevalley.comFollow us on Twitter @HambleValley
Share some family time
Great places to eat
Walk along the river
Heritage
see more of the Hamble Valley and take a virtual tour by scanning this QR code.
The Portsmouth Guest Guide: Out and About
24
Discover miles of smiles on the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is perfect for a day trip or holiday. Whether you discover the 60 miles
of stunning coastline or visit one of the Island’s great tourist attractions, it’ll be an
unforgettable experience.
BLUE - 100C 68M 12kRED - 100M 63Y 29K
GREY - 80K
And the best way to visit is with Wightlink. Our car ferries can take you there in under 45 minutes
from Portsmouth whilst our foot passenger catamarans take around 22 minutes
from Portsmouth Harbour.
TO BOOK, CALL 0871 376 1000Calls cost 7p per minute, plus network extrasat least 1 hour before you wish to travel
wightlink.co.uk