Even if you know nothing about naval history, nor care to, Portsmouth is definitely an interesting little town with plenty of food and activities to keep you entertained and busy on your hen do there.
Transportation:
During a Portsmouth hen weekend, walking is easy as the city is compact. But buses do run all day and for a small fee you can purchase pass for unlimited bus usage in Portsmouth for the entire day.
Attractions:
While on a hen do in Portsmouth, there are some sites and activities you should consider adding to your itinerary. Some of these sites and activities are:
See the city from the top of Spinnaker Tower
Stroll down the Renaissance Trail which is a self guided walk
Ride the water bus around the harbor
There is never a lack of something to during a Portsmouth hen weekend. Take a trip to the Blue Reef Aquarium for an undersea safari. Liven up your hen party with a night on the waterfront. For a sense of history, visit Lord Nelson's famous flagship the HMS Victory for a tour.
Shopping:
Of course you are going to want to shop on your hen weekend in Portsmouth. For something other than the usual high end names, head right for Southsea Town Centre. The independent retail shops and craft stores are just marvelous. If it is second hand goods you wish to shop for, take your hen party right down to Albert Road. No matter what type of shopping you wish to do during your hen weekend, it can surely be done in Portsmouth.
Nightlife:
The best place to take your Portsmouth hen party is to Gunwharf Quays. There are so many pubs and glimmers of nightlife flickering everywhere that you are sure to find something to please everyone. This concentration of restaurants and bars is located directly on the waterfront making for even a more memorable experience for your hen do. However, if you are looking for something more on the lines of big-city pubs, you may be better off to head down to the lounge bar Drift where you will often find great DJs playing music.
Eating:
Portsmouth touts great choices for restaurants, especially when considering its size. You can head to Albert Street for student fare or cheap Indian food. If you are a foodie and want to enjoy an experience run by a Michelin-rated chef you should go to No 8 Kings Road. Gunwharf Quays and Port Solent also offer a variety of restaurants to enjoy.
Not only is Portsmouth small and easy to travel, it contains all of the same amenities that can be found in bigger cities – but without all the disadvantages big cities often hold.