Hilsea
,Hilsea is a residential suburb located in Portsmouth, United Kingdom. It is known for its close proximity to Hilsea Lido, a popular outdoor swimming pool and recreation area. The area features a mix of housing, including both traditional and modern homes.
Hilsea is well-connected to the rest of Portsmouth via road and public transportation, making it a convenient place to live for commuters.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Hilsea and Surroundings
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Hilsea Lido, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim or a walk in the surrounding park. Grab a coffee at a nearby café and bask in the morning sun.
afternoon
:Head to the local shopping area to explore unique shops and boutiques. Enjoy lunch at a cozy restaurant and take a stroll around the nearby historical sites.
evening
:Wind down with a relaxing evening walk along the waterfront. Consider dining at a local pub for some classic British fare.
Adventure at Portsdown Hill
morning
:Take a short drive to Portsdown Hill for breathtaking views of Portsmouth. Spend the morning hiking or cycling along the trails.
afternoon
:Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on the hill while taking in the scenery. Afterward, visit Fort Nelson to delve into local history.
evening
:As the sun sets, return to Hilsea and enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery. Consider visiting a bar for some live music.
Highlights
Good
- Good transportation links, including nearby railway stations and bus services.
- Access to local parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
- Community-centered environment with local shops and amenities.
- Proximity to the historic city of Portsmouth, offering a range of cultural attractions.
Bad
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may experience higher levels of crime.
- Public services may be stretched due to population density.
- Weather can be variable, with damp and windy conditions common.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hilsea Lines
Explore the historic earthworks of Hilsea Lines, a series of ramparts and defensive structures built in the 19th century, perfect for a leisurely walk and enjoying views of the surrounding area.
Portsmouth Canoeing
Experience a thrilling day on the water with kayaking or canoeing sessions offered along the River Fratton and beyond, suitable for all skill levels.
Hilsea Swimming Pool
Enjoy an outdoor swim at the Hilsea Swimming Pool, which features a large open-air pool perfect for relaxing or getting some exercise during the warmer months.
Play Parks
Visit one of the local play parks in Hilsea, such as the play area at Hilsea Common, which offers a safe environment for children to play and areas for families to enjoy picnics.
Portsdown Hill
Take a hike or bike ride along Portsdown Hill, which provides picturesque views of Portsmouth and the Solent, along with various trails suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fishing at the River Fratton
Try your hand at fishing along the River Fratton, where you can enjoy a peaceful day by the water, with opportunities to catch a variety of fish.
Dog Walking in Hilsea Common
Bring your furry friend for a walk in Hilsea Common, which offers large open spaces, woodland areas, and trails that are great for exercising pets.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Hilsea with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilsea Lido
A historic open-air swimming pool with picturesque views of the surrounding area, perfect for capturing vintage-style photos.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Offers stunning views of historic ships and the waterfront, making it an ideal spot for unique maritime photography.
Hilsea Common
A large green space with scenic views, ideal for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
North Portsea Island Coastal Scheme
Features paths along the coastline with panoramic views of the Solent, perfect for nature and seascape photography.
Portsdown Hill
Provides breathtaking panoramic views of Portsmouth and the surrounding area, making it great for both day and night photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hampshire Sausage
A succulent pork sausage with a hint of sage, often served with creamy mashed potatoes and onion gravy. Don't miss the chance to savor this local specialty at The George & Dragon, known for its classic British fare.
Must-Try!
Portsmouth Fish Pie
Indulge in a comforting dish of flaky local fish, such as cod or haddock, smothered in a creamy sauce and topped with buttery mashed potatoes. The Horse and Jockey is renowned for its delectable version of this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hilsea better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Hilsea Market
Explore the vibrant Hilsea Market for a diverse selection of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and tempting street food stalls. Savory pies, aromatic curries, and delicious pastries are among the many treats awaiting visitors.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness and Courtesy
In Hilsea, as in much of the UK, politeness is highly valued. It is important to use 'please' and 'thank you' when interacting with others, whether in shops, restaurants, or public spaces.
Queuing
The British take queuing very seriously. When waiting for services, always join the line at the back and wait your turn. Skipping the queue is considered rude and frowned upon.
Respect Personal Space
Personal space is important in British culture. When speaking to someone, try to maintain a comfortable distance and avoid overly physical gestures unless you know the person well.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hilsea with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Hilsea, as in much of the UK, tipping is customary in various service industries but not obligatory. It is common to leave a 10-15% gratuity in restaurants if the service is satisfactory. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a small amount is appreciated. In pubs and cafes, tipping is less common, but customers may leave small change or round up their bill.
Payment
Payment practices in Hilsea align with the general trends observed throughout the UK. Cash is still accepted, but electronic payments through debit and credit cards are widely preferred. Contactless payments and mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly common, making transactions quick and convenient.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hilsea.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a pleasant time to visit Hilsea. The weather starts to warm up, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C. Visitors can expect blooming flowers, longer daylight hours, and many outdoor activities. Popular spots like parks and gardens come alive with color, making it a great time for walks and local events.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, with temperatures averaging 15°C to 22°C. Sunny days are common, perfect for enjoying recreational areas and events. This season offers opportunities for outdoor festivals, beach trips to nearby locations, and various recreational activities. Make sure to book accommodations in advance due to higher demand.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) offers a quieter atmosphere as the tourist crowds diminish. Temperatures start to drop, ranging from 10°C to 18°C. The scenery transforms with vibrant fall colors, making it an ideal time for photography. Expect occasional rain, but also many local harvest festivals and markets.
Winter
Winter (December to February) is the coldest season, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C. Although it may be chilly, Hilsea can be charming with festive decorations during the Christmas season. Expect fewer tourists and potential winter activities, along with cozy local pubs to enjoy traditional warm meals and drinks.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Havant Thicket
A picturesque area with a mix of woodlands and heath, offering various trails suitable for all skill levels.
Portsdown Hill
A hill offering panoramic views over Portsmouth and beyond, with numerous walking paths and historical significance.
Queen Elizabeth Country Park
A large country park featuring several walking trails, nature watching opportunities, and picnic areas.
Wittering Beach
Though primarily a beach, the surrounding areas provide scenic walking paths along the coast.
South Downs National Park
A vast national park with diverse landscapes, perfect for hiking with numerous well-marked trails.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hilsea through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Hilsea by plane.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
The primary international airport serving London and its surrounding areas, known for being one of the busiest airports in the world.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
London Gatwick is the second largest airport serving London, located to the south of the city.
London Stansted Airport (STN)
An international airport located northeast of Central London, primarily serving low-cost airlines.
Birmingham Airport (BHX)
An international airport located in Birmingham, the second-largest city in the UK, serving various domestic and international routes.
Southampton Airport (SOU)
A regional airport located in Southampton, offering flights to various European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White British
The largest ethnic group in the area, comprising the majority of the population.
Other White
Includes populations from various other White ethnic groups, such as Irish and European migrants.
Asian or Asian British
Includes South Asian communities, such as Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi populations.
Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME)
A broad category that includes Black African, Black Caribbean, and other minority ethnic groups.
Mixed or Multiple Ethnic Groups
Comprises individuals from mixed heritage backgrounds, contributing to the diversity of the area.
Other Ethnic Groups
Encompasses a variety of ethnicities not covered by the aforementioned categories.
The Soul of Hilsea
Discover the essence of Hilsea through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is a widely played sport in Hilsea, with local leagues and teams competing at various levels.
Rugby
Rugby has a strong following in Hilsea, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth.
Cricket
Cricket is a traditional sport in the area, often played in local parks and clubs during the summer months.
Running
Running is popular among residents, with local running clubs and events like park runs taking place regularly.
Tennis
Tennis is enjoyed recreationally, with local courts available for play and community tournaments organized.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored activity, with many residents taking advantage of nearby paths and cycling events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Hilsea's culinary scene caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with numerous eateries offering creative plant-based dishes. Look out for the 'V' symbols on menus, indicating specially crafted vegetarian and vegan options.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors requiring gluten-free options can rejoice, as many restaurants and cafes in Hilsea feature dedicated gluten-free menus or are willing to accommodate dietary needs upon request. From gluten-free pastries to hearty mains, there's something for everyone.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hilsea with these cultural adventures.
