By Jane Yule

 

Douglas Stafford’s Head Office home of Portsmouth has just been polled as the fifth best place in the UK to visit this year by Metro. Portsmouth has so much to offer for a weekend away or a little summer holiday – you might want to add it to your bucket list. We are very proud of our fantastic hometown, so we thought we would share just some of our favourite things to do this year…

 

 

America’s Cup World Series

 

The exciting America’s Cup World Series takes place in July (21^st – 24^th). Portsmouth-based Land Rover Ben Ainslie Racing (BAR) Team will be just one team taking part. Tickets are required but with viewing platforms along the seafront and lots of activities in between the action there is plenty to see and do. This event really does bring Southsea to life!

 

 

 

Victorious Music Festival

 

If festivals are more your style, then Victorious is definitely for you. A relatively new event for Portsmouth as the two-day event is only in its third year, it is expected to receive more than 100,000 visitors in 2016. Held on the 27^th and 28^th August, ticket prices include free entry to all seafront attractions and a fantastic line up.

 

 

 

The Emirates Spinnaker Tower

 

The main attraction at Gunwharf Quays Premium Retail Outlet is the Emirates Spinnaker Tower, standing at an impressive 170 metres tall. Do you dare to walk across the amazing glass Sky Walk? We advise you grab something to eat and drink at the many restaurants and bars after doing this!

 

 

 

Historic Dockyard

 

If heights aren’t your cup of tea, then Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard is a stone’s throw away, with attractions including HMS Warrior and the remains of Henry VIII’s warship: The Mary Rose. Walk along the cobbled streets to Nelson’s flagship, The Victory, or take a harbour tour to see the busy port in action.

 

 

 

Spitbank Fort

 

Finally, a definite for the Portsmouth bucket list: Spitbank Fort. This is a boutique hotel built into one of the historic forts out on the Solent. Accessible only by boat, the Spitbank Fort is the perfect destination for a quiet retreat; a night will set you back £700.