Things to do in half-term: Nine family-friendly attractions in Portsmouth to visit this coming week

It feels like only yesterday that the kids all trudged off back to school - and now they’re coming back again, complaining that they’re bored, that Fortnite is down, or that there’s “nothing to eat” (before turning their noses up when you suggest having an apple).

This might only be seven days of holiday, but keeping the children occupied and entertained feels like having a second full-time job. Thankfully, Portsmouth and the surrounding area is blessed with an abundance of attractions you can take them to during the half-term break.

Here are some of the best family-friendly options for a half-term excursion, that won’t end up breaking the bank

Royal Armouries - Fort Nelson

With free admission, Fort Nelson is a great way to spend a day out with the family. Marvel at the cannons and heavy artillery, enjoy staggering views from the top of Portsdown Hill, and explore a Victorian fort that has been painstakingly restored, with no expense spared.

There is also a gift shop and cafe to look around. Parking is £3, and it takes around two to three hours to see everything the museum has to offer.

D-Day Story, Southsea

This is the only museum in the UK that is dedicated solely to the story of the D-Day landings and Battle of Normandy - so if you’re searching for a unique experience, look no further.

Inside the museum, you will find galleries, videos and interactive exhibits to keep your little ones engaged. Then, when you step outside, they can gaze in wonder at LCT 7074, the last surviving landing craft tank used on D-Day.

Southsea Castle, Southsea

A stone’s throw away from the D-Day Story, these two attractions could be combined into one awesome day out on the seafront. Built in 1544, captured during the English Civil War and expanded with an escape tunnel in the 19th Century, Southsea Castle is one of the richest sites in Portsmouth when it comes to history.

Flip Out, Portsmouth

For those looking for a less hands-on approach - or to simply tire out their children - Flip Out is definitely the way to go. Put your feet up and have a coffee while your kids go crazy at this indoor trampoline park, or jump in with them for a good laugh together.

Canoe Lake, Southsea

Admittedly, this one relies on the weather holding up, but we’re always optimistic here at The News! Canoe Lake is a great place to head down to for a family picnic, or to take a little ride out onto the water in those iconic swans. Just make sure the real swans don’t try and pinch your lunch...

Staunton Farm, Havant

At the base of Staunton Country Park, an ornamental farm boasts beautiful gardens, glasshouses and even some animals. The sheep and ferrets are particularly friendly, and there really is something for everyone here.

Southsea Model Village, Southsea

Southsea Model Village was built in 1956, and is a 1/12th scale village. There are handmade models of both Portsmouth Guildhall and Spinnaker Tower, plus a toy museum and a miniature model fairground.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsea

We couldn’t make a list of things to do in Portsmouth without including perhaps the most memorable family day out imaginable.

Not only does the Historic Dockyard have some excellent indoor exhibits, on the doorstep of the naval base, but you get the unique chance to walk the decks of HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and HMS M.33.

Dockyard tickets now also include the Mary Rose Museum, as well as the Royal Submarine Museum and Explosion Museum across the harbour in Gosport.

Portsmouth Natural History Museum, Southsea

Situated on the outskirts of Canoe Lake, this little museum lets you get up close and personal with both birds and butterflies. It’s a great spectacle of colour when they all start flying around, and is just generally a wholesome excursion.