But with spring just around the corner it is the perfect time to get out for a walk.
With our perfect location of being both right on the coast and at the edge of the South Downs National Park, Portsmouth and its surrounding towns have a whole host of fantastic walks to enjoy this winter to enjoy the changing season. And the great news is so many of them are right near a cafe so you can grab that all important hot chocolate!
Here are just some of our favourites - just make sure you wrap up warm, take your sunglasses, or both!:
13. Old Portsmouth to Clarence Pier
If you are looking for a breath of fresh air this winter then there is nothing better than a coastal walk. The stretch from Old Portsmouth to Clarence Pier includes the sea defences at Long Curtain Moat where there are plenty of view points to enjoy and benches to sit at. If the mood takes you then you can walk over Southsea Common (as the Esplanade between the hovertravel terminal and Blue Reef is currently closed) and continue along the prom past Southsea Castle and beyond. Picture: Sarah Standing (160223-5520) Photo: Sarah Standing
14. Cams Hall/Fareham Creek
A fabulous stroll along Cams Hall and Fareham Creek will certainly blow the cobwebs away this winter. You can take a short stroll along just part of the Creek, or park up at the carpark at the the end of Shearwater Avenue and then head for the water to then do an entire circuit along the coastline (and a bit on a road). Just watch out for a few golf balls! There is also the pub and the wonderful Dovecote to pop into for a drink and snack. If you are feeling adventurous the shoreline can be followed all of the way along to Portchester Castle. Taken by Alison Treacher Photo: -
15. Farlington Marshes
In a perfect position at the top of the city, Farlington Marshes is a great choice for an winter stroll with so many birds to see along the way. You can either do the whole circular route, or can cut through the grass for a shorter walk taking in the scenic frosty views. Photo: Contributed
16. Hilsea shoreline
The stretch from the Hilsea Lido area to the Mountbatten Centre is the perfect short coastal stroll in the north of the city taking in the views and enjoy the changing scenery - and its paved paths make it perfect in this changeable weather. There are plenty of places to stop and take a seat and is perfect for those walking or cycling along the route - and the swans are very much in residence. With a small playground halfway along and a park at both Mountbatten and Hilsea Lido it is also perfect for families who can also grab a drink and a snack at the South Coast Wakepark cafe. Photo: Kelly Brown