Portsmouth 100 - the perfect time to visit

15th June 2026

2026 really is an ideal time to visit Portsmouth - with 100 years of city status being marked with a packed programme of events taking place throughout summer and beyond.

It was in April 1926 (on the exact same day the future Queen Elizabeth II was born, as it happens), that Portsmouth was formally given city status. Now - fast forward 100 years - there's plenty to see and do as the city celebrates its 100th with a full year of events, activities and things to do.

What's on for Portsmouth100?

From free live music performances to interactive workshops and art festivals, there's a lot planned to mark the big occasion. At the centre of it all, though, will be a pride of colourful lions.

From 13 July to 13 September, the Pride of Portsmouth will roar into life. Featuring more than 40 lion sculptures - each decorated by a talented artist in their own unique styles - the pride will be positioned across locations the length and breadth of Portsmouth. A dedicated app and website will showcase each one and map them all out - how many will you spot?

Other Portsmouth100 events include a performance from the open air summer concerts, fireworks display and Pro-Am golf tournament. The easiest way to find out what's going on (and get more information about the centenary celebrations more generally) is by heading to portsmouth100.co.uk.

Other unmissable events

Of course, whilst the Portsmouth100 celebrations may be adding a new raft of goings on to the calendar this year, there's still the usual packed programme of events to enjoy. This year sees the likes of Victorious Festival, Live at the Bandstand, the Great South Run, Portsmouth International Kite Festival and more return to these shores. Summer will also see the welcome return of the Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix.

Likened to "Formula 1 on water", the full-season event sees some of the world's best sailors compete in fast and furious races taking place right around the globe (with other locations alongside Portsmouth including Bermuda, New York, Sydney, Rio and Geneva). The British team came out on top last time around - can they repeat the feat in 2026? 

If you're a sailing fan then you really should visit on the SailGP weekend - as that will also be the same time that the 2025/26 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race reaches its conclusion. The teams of intrepid explorers will dock once more into Gunwharf Quays, where they set off from on the adventure of a lifetime some 12 months ago - so expect emotional scenes and a celebratory atmosphere.

Don't forget the year-round Portsmouth attractions

Whilst these big events and centenary celebrations are grabbing the headlines, be sure to make some time in your itinerary to stop off at some of Portsmouth's big attractions - which will not only be open throughout but will also be offering special activities to mark the momentous year.

First off, how about Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where one ticket grants entry to a whole host of truly iconic ships and museums? Go on board HMS Warrior, see the expert craftsmanship going into the restoration of HMS Victory, and breathe in the same air as Henry VIII's beloved Mary Rose. Plus, there's a harbour tour and the brand new Royal Marines Experience - set to open later this year.

Mere minutes from the Dockyard gate is the waterfront outlet centre Gunwharf Quays. It's home to more than 90 big brand designer outlets (offering up to 60% off RRP) - with names including Coast, Mulberry, Oliver Bonas, Nike, La Creuset, Lindt and more.

Once your bags are full, relax at one of the site's 30 bars and restaurants - with many enjoying stunning views out over the marina. If you're still feeling active, book into the bowling alley, try your luck in the casino, watch a film at the multiplex cinema, or head to the contemporary art gallery, Aspex, all located on site. 

Also within Gunwharf Quays is the iconic Spinnaker Tower. An emblem of modern Portsmouth, the towering attraction has a high-speed lift up to its three view decks, where you can take in 23-mile views of city, coast and country. Head up to View Deck 3 where an open roof puts you amongst the elements, brave the glass floor with views down to the harbour below, or take it more gently by enjoying a very high tea at Clouds - some 105m above sea level.

Next, stroll along the newly refreshed promenade from Old Portsmouth to Southsea, where there's even more to explore.

The D-Day Story is the UK’s only museum dedicated entirely to the 1944 Operation Overlord campaign. Inside you’ll find artefacts from the time and personal testimonies of those involved; outside is LCT 7074, a Tank Landing Craft built to carry up to 10 tanks and their crews, which later spent time as a floating nightclub in Birkenhead before being fully restored and returned to Portsmouth.

Southsea Castle dates back to the Tudor period, and the infamous Henry VIII is even said to have stood on its ramparts during the Battle of the Solent (not a great day for the king, who could only watch on as his beloved flagship the Mary Rose sank). Those with a keen eye will also notice the castle's unusual geometry - its angles and curved walls reportedly were also influenced by Henry VIII, who wanted to utilise designs at that time more typically seen on the continent, as they would provide his archers with better sight lines and fewer blind spots.

With a full day of exploring under your belt you can finish up in nearby Southsea town centre. Here, a wealth of independent pubs, bars and restaurants serve up quality food and drink, whilst iconic gig venues and theatres keep the entertainment coming all year round.

Plan your trip to Portsmouth

For event listings across the centenary year (and beyond), plus travel guidance, places to stay and the option to build a tailored plan, head to visitportsmouth.co.uk.