The Best Day Trips for Portsmouth University Students

About the author: Hi everyone! I'm Claire Munro, a recent Digital Marketing graduate from the University of Portsmouth. After spending the best three years of my life in this amazing city, I've made it my mission to help you make the most of your time both in Portsmouth and in London (where I now live!). When I'm not working or writing about my student life, you can find me shopping or hanging out with my friends.

I heard that you and your friends were thinking about planning a day trip together from Portsmouth – well, look no further, I’ve got the perfect plan for you. Whether you’re looking to travel for two hours or 10 minutes, whether it’s hot or cold, whether you fancy a lazy day relaxing or a fun-filled day of adventure – here’s my tried-and-tested list of the best destinations near Portsmouth.

Isle of Wight

🛥️ By hovercraft: Southsea to Ryde (10 mins)

⛴️ By ferry: Portsmouth Harbour to Fishbourne (45 mins)

Shall we start with the perfect beach day in the Isle of Wight? I took the hovercraft to Ryde when I visited, so that’s where I spent my day. If you decide to take the ferry to Fishbourne, it only takes roughly 23 minutes to travel from Fishbourne to Ryde’s beach. But if you don't mind a slightly longer journey, there are plenty more beaches to go to – Shanklin, Sandown, Cowes, and many more. The amazing thing about this island is how easy it is to get around! 

Once you reach the beach, the relaxation can begin. Sun, sea and sand – what more could you want? Perhaps some food and maybe a cheeky little drink? Why not stop at Harbour House for a spot of lunch and a large selection of delicious cocktails. Or, go one step further with the Harbour House bottomless lunch (you read that right, lunch not brunch). You just can’t go wrong with a beach bar – especially when the bar turns into a fun dance spot by night, hosting DJ events regularly. 

Southampton

🚂 By train: Portsmouth and Southsea station to Southampton Central (40+ mins direct)

🚗 By car: Guildhall Walk to Southampton West Quay Car Park (35 - 40 mins)

Do you know what my two favourite words are? Shopping spree! There’s no better way to spend a day than in a huge shopping mall in my opinion, and you won’t be disappointed by Southampton’s Westquay shopping centre. I could spend hours wandering through the endless shops here – I’m talking Zara, Hollister, Superdry and so much more. But what’s a shopping day without snack breaks and a yummy dinner to finish the day off? Head over to the food court, or visit one of the many restaurants scattered around the mall to fulfill your shopper’s appetite.

Shopping not really your thing? Why didn’t you say so! Southampton has plenty more to offer! Why not watch Southampton F.C. play at St Mary’s Stadium? Afterwards you can even follow the game up with a drink from one of the many pubs and bars nearby.

Any history buff will love diving into Southampton’s past with a visit to the SeaCity Museum and the Tudor House & Garden, dating back to 1491. It’s just an eight minute walk from Southampton Central to the museum, then you can either take a 15 minute stroll or a quick five-minute drive to the house and gardens.

Brighton

🚂 By train: Portsmouth and Southsea Station to Brighton Station (1hr 21+ mins direct)

🚗 By car: Guildhall Walk to NCP Brighton Centre Russel Rd Car Park (1hr 8 mins - 1h 30 mins)

If you’re torn between a city day and a beach trip, Brighton gives you the best of both. Start your day off with a wander through the iconic Lanes – a maze of quirky little shops and vintage boutiques. Take a break with a drink and a snack. How about checking out The Pond? It may seem like your average pub, but grab yourself a menu and you’ll find the tastiest Asian street food. 

Once you’ve shopped your hearts out (or perhaps window shopped), it’s time to mosey down to the beach. Get ready to soak up the sun and if you’re still hungry, grab yourselves a classic fish and chips to enjoy while you’re sitting on the pebbled beach. Sitting still not your style? That’s totally fine, hire a paddle board and take yourself out on the water and have the time of your lives!

Dry off and get yourselves over to Brighton Pier – arcade games and ice cream, get me there now! Once you’ve spent all your loose change, a decision must be made: head back to Portsmouth, or stick around and enjoy the city’s bustling nightlife.

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