Nestled on the southern side of Portsmouth – with views across to the Isle of Wight – lies a traditional British seaside town that doesn’t become overcrowded in the heights of summer. Southsea, a bustling hub, is bursting with stunning independent pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops which line the quaint streets.
The small resort town’s pebbly beach has plenty of quieter areas even in the peak of summer and has a year-round dog-friendly area between the Royal Marines Museum and Henderson Road so you can even bring your furry friend along with you. The horizon is broken by sea forts, which were originally built to protect maritime access to Portsmouth Harbour when the UK felt under threat from Napoleon. They make for an atmospheric view, whatever the season.
And it seems the resort town has not lost its small town appeal as writer Laura Nightingale returned to Southsea after two years and one particular thing amazed her.
Southsea may be a charming area but some would say its property prices are even more charming with £337,000 being the average house price. According to Rightmove, house prices in Southsea have an overall average of £278,884 over the last year.
Flats sold for a price tag of £212,989, with semi-detached properties fetching £432,321. Laura noted that Southsea was just as beautiful as she remembered.
She said: “From buzzing nightlife and fantastic shopping opportunities, to gorgeous beach walks and a thriving cultural scene, it is jam-packed with things to do for all ages.
“Everything can be reached on foot and it’s a beautiful place to go for a stroll. Southsea Common is a large green area running parallel to the shore from Clarence Pier to Southsea Castle, and it’s perfect for a picnic.”
A popular tourist destination during the Victorian era, the town is rich in history and is home to the D-Day Museum and Southsea Castle. It’s promenade is the ideal place to ride a bike, go for a beach walk or relax on a bench and watch the view.
Just a few steps back from the promenade, tourists will find the pretty and historic Southsea Rose Gardens.
