Things you have to try while studying English in Portsmouth.

We know you want to make the most out of your time as an English language student in Portsmouth, so here are a few of the most interesting things you and your friends can enjoy. There are many excellent cafés in Portsmouth, this will be great for you while you are learning English as you can practice. Here is a list of some of the best coffee places, tried and tested just for you!

https://lsi-portsmouth.co.uk/coffee-time-portsmouth-things-southsea/

At LSI/IH Portsmouth there are a number of social activities for those learning English. We have a wide range of activities to suit everyone. You can get involved with cultural and educational outings, nights out, clubs for all different interests. A great way to meet others is joining the University of Portsmouth union’s clubs and societies, which you can do while studying at LSI/IH Portsmouth. Then you can socialise with both British people and people learning English, and it’s a great way to practice your spoken English.

https://lsi-portsmouth.co.uk/social-programme/

Spinnaker Tower

<img src="The Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth.jpg" alt="view of the sea and the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth Pier">

Spinnaker Tower at Gunwharf Quay, Portsmouth

You can start your visit by seeing as much of Portsmouth as possible in one trip, by going up the iconic Spinnaker Tower. From the various viewing platforms, you will be able to see 23 miles on a clear day. If you’re feeling brave there is a glass Sky Walk, where you can look down at the harbour 100 metres below. You can grab a drink at the café bar which is 105 metres high and the highest viewing platform is at 110 metres. With their high-speed internal lift, it only takes 28 seconds to get to 100 metres! There are guided tours each day and plenty of things to see and do to keep you busy. If you book online you can get 10% off admission price.

https://www.spinnakertower.co.uk/plan-your-visit

<img src="Portsmouth views by the sea.jpg" alt="Views of the buildings next to the sea in Portsmouth">

Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard

Once you’ve seen it from above why not go to the Historic Dockyard? Portsmouth is steeped in maritime history and there is no better way to see it than visiting the Historic Dockyard. To get to know Portsmouth better this is the best place to do it. There are over 11 different attractions so it will take a few visits to see them all. If you purchase a full navy ticket you can have unlimited visits to the attractions for a year so you can fill as many days as you want. This also includes a boat ride so after seeing Portsmouth from the air from Spinnaker Tower, you can see it from a different angle and see it from the sea. The website offers 20% discount if you book online. Also 30 June 2018 to 6 January 2019 there is an awesome new exhibition, Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed. This features the largest collection of original tattoo artwork ever assembled in the UK. So if tattoos are your thing, have a look here first. You may decide to have a permanent reminder of your trip to Portsmouth!

https://www.historicdockyard.co.uk

Portsmouth Play Zone

Now it’s time to unleash your inner child and have some serious fun! Playzone is the south coasts biggest indoor adventure play area. This has lots of slides, obstacle courses, climbing walls and is fully air-conditioned. This may sound like a place that would be full of younger children, but don’t worry. It is open Tuesday and Friday evenings for over 18’s only and has a fully licenced bar and café serving hot and cold drinks throughout the evening. So why not blow off some steam, go back to your childhood and most importantly really enjoy yourself.

<img src="Group of students during a coffee break.jpg" alt="group of English students chatting during a coffee break">

Group of young people meeting in a cafe.

http://www.theplayzone.co.uk/playzone-portsmouth/adult-activities.htm

Clarence Pier

If you’re looking for a traditional English seaside experience, then Clarence Pier is the place to go. Located at Southsea the pier is one of the largest amusement parks on the south coast. Open all year it has plenty to do and see, and lots of places to eat and drink. There are traditional rides including dodgems, waltzers, mini golf and a carousel, and a sky trail with high wire rope bridges and rope ladders. There are over 28 different parts of the Skytrail for you to navigate if you are brave enough. There are beautiful views along the coastline for you to enjoy too. If you buy a wristband you can have unlimited rides and this includes a session on the Skytrail so is the best way to get the most out of your visit.

https://www.clarencepier.co.uk/

Clarence Pier from the sea