A Visitor's Introduction to Gosport, Hampshire

Why is Gosport Worth a Visit?

Gosport is worth visiting for its unique naval history, fascinating museums, and beautiful coastal views. As a major hub for the British Navy for over 800 years, the town is steeped in maritime history, which is showcased in its attractions like the Royal Navy Submarine Museum and Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower. Beyond the history, visitors can enjoy waterfront walks, sailing, and ferry trips to Portsmouth, where they can further explore the region’s naval heritage.

Whether you're interested in military history, outdoor activities, or simply want to enjoy a quieter seaside retreat, Gosport offers a rich variety of experiences and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Gosport Highlights: Things to See and Do in Gosport

1. Royal Navy Submarine Museum
The Royal Navy Submarine Museum is one of Gosport’s top attractions, offering visitors the chance to explore the history of submarines and the lives of those who served on them. The museum’s highlight is HMS Alliance, a World War II-era submarine that you can step aboard to experience what life was like for the crew. Exhibits include early submarine designs, artefacts from naval history, and interactive displays. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history and offers a fascinating glimpse into life beneath the waves.

2. Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower
Located in the historic Priddy’s Hard area, the Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower is a unique museum dedicated to the history of naval weaponry. Housed in an 18th-century gunpowder depot, the museum tells the story of naval firepower from the days of sail to modern warfare. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring cannons, torpedoes, and missiles, as well as interactive displays that explain how these weapons were developed and used. The museum also offers beautiful views across Portsmouth Harbour, making it a scenic and educational stop.

3. Gosport Ferry and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
One of the most convenient ways to explore Gosport and its neighbour Portsmouth is by taking the Gosport Ferry, which provides quick and easy access to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. The ferry crosses Portsmouth Harbour in just a few minutes and offers great views of the waterfront. Once in Portsmouth, visitors can explore iconic naval attractions such as HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose Museum. The ferry runs frequently throughout the day, making it an easy way to explore both towns.

4. Alver Valley Country Park
For those looking to enjoy nature, Alver Valley Country Park is a beautiful outdoor space located on the edge of Gosport. The park offers a mix of woodland, meadows, and wetlands, with plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore. It’s a great spot for wildlife watching, picnicking, and family-friendly activities. The park is also home to a large children’s play area, a café, and several nature trails that showcase the area’s rich biodiversity.

5. Stokes Bay
Stokes Bay is one of Gosport’s most popular coastal spots, offering stunning views across the Solent towards the Isle of Wight. The pebble beach is perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or simply relaxing by the sea. Stokes Bay is also a popular spot for watersports, including sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. On a clear day, you can watch the boats and ferries sailing across the Solent, making it a peaceful place to unwind and enjoy the coastal scenery.

6. Little Woodham Living History Village
For a step back in time, visit Little Woodham, a living history village that recreates life in the 17th century. This immersive experience allows visitors to wander through a small village and interact with costumed re-enactors who demonstrate traditional crafts and daily activities from the 1600s. You can see blacksmiths, weavers, and farmers at work while learning about life in the past. It’s a fascinating and educational experience, especially for families and history enthusiasts.

7. Fort Brockhurst
Part of a series of forts built to defend Portsmouth Harbour, Fort Brockhurst is an impressive 19th-century fortification located in Gosport. Managed by English Heritage, the fort is open to the public on select days and offers guided tours that delve into its history and military significance. The surrounding moat and gardens provide a peaceful place to walk, and the fort itself offers insight into the Victorian era’s military architecture and defence strategies.

8. Diving Museum
For a unique and fascinating look at the history of diving, the Diving Museum in Gosport is a must-see. Housed in a former Victorian battery, the museum tells the story of diving from its earliest days to modern times. Exhibits include vintage diving suits, underwater exploration equipment, and displays on the development of deep-sea diving technology. The museum is run by passionate volunteers, many of whom are experienced divers, offering interesting insights and personal stories about the history of this adventurous profession.

9. Lee-on-the-Solent
Just a short drive from Gosport, Lee-on-the-Solent is a charming seaside village with a lovely promenade, a pebble beach, and stunning views across the Solent. It’s a great place for a quiet day by the sea, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and ice cream parlours to enjoy. Lee-on-the-Solent is also home to the Hovercraft Museum, which features a collection of historic hovercraft, including the last remaining SR.N4 cross-Channel hovercraft. The village’s relaxed atmosphere and beautiful seafront make it a perfect destination for a leisurely day out.

10. Haslar Marina
For those interested in sailing or simply enjoying the maritime atmosphere, a visit to Haslar Marina is highly recommended. Located on the edge of Portsmouth Harbour, Haslar Marina is one of the largest marinas on the south coast and offers stunning views of the harbour and the Solent. Visitors can stroll along the marina’s pontoons, admire the yachts, and enjoy a drink or meal at one of the waterside cafés or restaurants. It’s also a great spot for watching the ferries and boats sail in and out of the harbour.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:
Gosport is easily accessible by road, ferry, and public transport. The town is located on the A32, which connects it to nearby cities like Portsmouth and Fareham. By train, visitors can take the train to Portsmouth Harbour and then hop on the Gosport Ferry for a short crossing to Gosport. Southampton Airport is about 30 minutes away by car for those arriving by air. There are also regular bus services connecting Gosport to surrounding towns.

Parking:
Gosport offers several parking options throughout the town, particularly near its main attractions. Gosport Ferry Car Park and Haslar Marina Car Park are convenient for those visiting the waterfront, while parking is available at Stokes Bay for beachgoers. The town also offers street parking and long-stay car parks, though it can get busy during peak tourist seasons and events.

Dining:
Gosport has a diverse selection of dining options, ranging from traditional British pubs to waterside eateries. The Fighting Cocks, a cosy pub near Alver Valley Country Park, is known for its hearty pub fare and relaxed atmosphere. Pebbles Fish & Wine Bar at Stokes Bay offers seafood dishes with beautiful views of the Solent. For a casual bite, The Boathouse Café at Haslar Marina serves light meals and snacks, perfect for a relaxed meal by the water.

Shopping:
While Gosport is more focused on history and nature than shopping, there are still several shops and boutiques in the town centre. The Gosport Market, held on Saturdays, is a great place to pick up fresh local produce, crafts, and antiques. For more extensive shopping, visitors can take the Gosport Ferry to Portsmouth, where they’ll find Gunwharf Quays, an outlet shopping centre with a wide range of fashion and lifestyle stores.

When to Visit:
Gosport is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and the coastline is at its most beautiful. Summer is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like sailing, walking, and exploring the local beaches. The Falklands Conflict Memorial Weekend in June and the Gosport Marine Festival in July are popular events that draw visitors to the town. Winter offers a quieter atmosphere, with fewer crowds and a peaceful coastal retreat.

Local Events:
Gosport hosts several events throughout the year, many of which celebrate its naval and maritime heritage. The Gosport Marine Festival is a highlight, offering water-based activities, live music, and stalls along the waterfront. The town also participates in the annual Heritage Open Days, during which many historic sites and buildings open their doors to the public for free. Christmas brings festive markets and light displays to the town centre, creating a cosy atmosphere during the winter months.

Exploring Beyond Gosport:
Gosport’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider Hampshire area. Take the ferry to Portsmouth to visit the Historic Dockyard, Spinnaker Tower, and Gunwharf Quays. The nearby South Downs National Park offers stunning landscapes for walking and cycling. For a coastal escape, head to Hayling Island or take a day trip to the Isle of Wight, easily accessible by ferry from Portsmouth.