Coastal English city most Brits skip that’s ‘underrated’ as a holiday destination – with Dubai-like attraction
Watch our video on the top five most underrated cities to visit in the UK
A BRIT who has visited all 76 cities in the UK has revealed one which he says is the most underrated for a staycation.
Travel guide creator Peter Naldrett has raved about the coastal city of Portsmouth.
Peter, who visited every city for his book coming out later this month, has revealed the things that make every city special.
And the Sheffield-based travel writer says that even though Brits transit through Portsmouth en route to the Isle of Wight and France, it shouldn’t be overlooked as a staycation destination in its own right.
He told Sun Online Travel: “A lot of people will just go through Portsmouth and use it for transit but they should really stay for an extra day or two.
“You should tack those days on either side of your holiday because Portsmouth is just a treasure trove in its own right, with two or free days worth of fascinating museums.
“There’s so much for the whole family, so it’s worth buying an annual pass to the where you can visit 11 attractions within 12 months.
“A day, or a few hours before a ferry crossing, certainly isn’t enough to really discover Portsmouth’s world-class attractions.”
One of the main attractions is the Spinnaker Tower, which Peter says gives Portsmouth an “air of Dubai”.
The 170-metre has views for up to 23 miles on a clear day.
After 28 seconds in a high-speed lift, guests can take in views of the Historic Dockyard, HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, the South Downs and even the Isle of Wight.
Not only can you take in the coastal views but you can even abseil down the side of the building, with tickets on sale between April and September.
There are lots of other attractions to add to your list when visiting, with Peter saying: “You don’t need to be a military enthusiast to enjoy Portsmouth either because everything is simply fascinating.”
Visitors to the Historic Dockyard can see historic wartime vessels like the Mary Rose – King Henry VIII’s flagship battleship that was sunk during the Battle of Solent in 1545.
The Tudor warship lay at the bottom of the sea until it was excavated on live TV in 1982 and added to its purpose-built museum aptly called the .
Sunken artefacts are also on display and there’s even a 4D cinema.
Another one of those fascinating attractions is the , one of the UK’s most well-known warships and the world’s oldest naval vessels in commission.
The hugely historic vessel is where Lord Nelson died during the Battle of Trafalgar, with a plaque now commemorating his final moments.
Visitors will be able to learn more about the historic battle thanks to an audio guide.
In his book, Peter encourages holidaymakers to go on the walkway underneath the hull for an “unforgettable experience” as you’ll be able to gaze up at the huge ship from below.
Gives the seafront at Portsmouth an air of Dubai
With 11 attractions in the Historic Dockyard there’s plenty of places to visit, including the – a huge World War Two submarine.
Other sites include the HMS Warrior (a Victorian battleship), the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, the Museum of Naval Firepower, Boathouse 4 and the Dockyard Experience.
Visitors can also go on a Harbour Tour for “unparalleled views of the modern frigates, destroyers, and aircraft carriers that call Portsmouth their home.”
, which give visitors unlimited access to attractions for 12 months, start from £51 for a full-paying adult.
And Portsmouth isn’t just somewhere that’s great for big kids, it’s a great place for youngsters too.
Peter added: “My kids absolutely loved Portsmouth too especially because of the fish and chips and ice cream.
Deep Blue Fish and Chips and Britannia Fish and Chips are among the highest-rated chippies on Google.
Direct trains run from Portsmouth to Waterloo Station in London, with journeys taking just over two hours.
Portsmouth is a 60-minute drive from both Bournemouth and Worthing.
Who is Peter Naldrett?
PETER Naldrett is a former journalist who works as a geography teacher and an author.
He has already published two books, including On Location, Treasured Islands, and Around the Coast in 80 Days.
His adventures around the UK means he knows exactly what makes a city tick like the prominence of water.
Peter believes water plays an important role in the city from seasides to rivers and fountains, so if you’re not enjoying a place, make a beeline for some water.
Bright Lights, Big Cities, which is being published on September 12, 2024, will be his third book.
You can pre-order a copy of his book, .
Last week, Peter explained why Brits should visit Salford – tiny cultural powerhouse on the outskirts of Greater Manchester.
And we’ve recently revealed our favourite spots for a September break.
