The last stop on our three generations trip was the waterfront city of Portsmouth - the UK’s only island city and the birthplace of Charles Dickens. Two random facts you can thank me later for when you next go to a pub quiz! Why not take a gander at where else we’ve been on Day 1 and Day 2 of our mum-daughter-grandaughter break.
But for now … here’s what were all got up to in sunny Portsmouth!
What To Do
The only museum in the UK dedicated to the Allied Invasion
It re-opened in March ’18 after a £5m revamp!
The perfect sunny spot for history buffs
Grab a freshly made sandwich at the newly opened cafe
Take a wander around Southsea to stretch your legs
The D-Day Story and Overlord Embroidery
Telling the brave and dramatic story of the D-Day landings during World War Two, this small but informative museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Make sure to also check out the Overlord Embriodery - Impressive and lengthy embroided panels that work together to depict the Battle of Normandy and the D-Day Story. It took five years to stitch by hand! The museum also has a lovely coffee shop to grab a bite to eat after your visit. I would definitely recommend taking a stroll around Southsea (where the museum is located) and breathe in some sea air.
GunWharf Quays is full of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants
The iconic Emirates Spinnaker Tower
The view from the top
On a clear day you can see for miles
Snack time - with a view!
A proper ‘high’ tea!
Would you walk 100m above the ground?
It’s a long way down!
Gunwharf Quays and Spinnaker Tower
If you like the finer thing in life but with a smaller price tag then you could easily shop till you drop at GunWharf Quays, which is full of designer outlet stores. This buzzing part of Portsmouth is also perfect for people watching as there are over 30 pubs, restaurants and cafes to choose from. We were spoilt for choice.
But the real star of the show at the Quays is undoubtably the Emirates Spinnaker Tower.
Our three days finished in the most spectacular fashion as we caught an ear-popping lift 105 metres above the ground for a real ‘high’ tea at the Clouds restaurant. Scoffing on dainty sandwiches and proper scones (I’m a cream first kinda gal) whilst looking out at the impressive view of the waterfront was a very special experience. Then it was down a floor to the viewing deck and to swallow the wobbles as you stepped over the glass Sky Walk, if you dared. I have to say my 1 year old daughter is more fearless than me and her grandma!
Where To Eat
The way to all our hearts - food!
Spaghetti and peas. A winning combo.
Leave enough room for pudding. It’s so worth it!
The perfect spot for wine buffs at Abarbistro
Hands down the best meal of our trip was at Abarbistro. I don’t know if it was because it was the last supper but everything just worked. From the atmosphere in the sunny candy coloured restaurant, to the mouth-watering food (Everleigh wolfed down the spaghetti in the only way acceptable) and the sparkling company, it was the perfect way to spend an evening.
There’s also a wine merchants upstairs with over 200 wines for you to try before you buy. They regularly hold wine tasting nights which would be such a fun night if you grabbed a bunch of your closest pals to join you.
Where To Stay
Spoilt for space at the Marriott Portsmouth
No swimming costume - no problem!
The last place we called home for this trip was the 4 star Marriott Hotel, just outside the city centre. We stayed in a recently refurbished family room and had two huge double beds each, it was great to spread out starfish style. The breakfast was vast and fresh, including a chef at an omelette station whipping up on-the-spot orders. Any excuse for a quick dip, we made sure to test out the swimming pool too, the only slight issue was forgetting Everleigh’s cozzie - not that that spoilt her fun.
Being able to hang out with my mum and daughter without the stresses and demands of daily life was wonderful. I couldn’t get enough of watching them interact and play together and it also meant I got a break from motherhood for a while, which any tired mum will tell you is invaluable! Three different cities in three days was full on but each destination had it’s own charms and plenty to explore so the mini-break whizzed by. I can say for certain that all three of us found something that appealed, I just wish it didn’t have to come to an end.
Huge thanks to Tourism South East for sponsoring this trip. As always all opinions are 100% my own.
