New signage has been installed along Portsmouth’s section of the Shipwrights Way, enhancing navigation for walkers and cyclists exploring the five-mile coastal route from Eastney to the Historic Dockyard.
The Shipwrights Way forms part of a Hampshire-wide long-distance path that begins near Farnham and traverses the South Downs before reaching Portsmouth. The route welcomes walkers, cyclists, and horse riders across its entire length.
Fresh signage for 2025 now marks Portsmouth’s coastal section, helping visitors navigate the predominantly flat, paved route whilst highlighting specially commissioned sculptures designed for the trail.
Route Highlights
Starting Point: Ferry terminal at Eastney from Hayling Island
Eastney to Seafront: The path winds past local boatyards before joining Portsmouth’s seafront, offering spectacular views of the Isle of Wight and the iconic Spinnaker Tower.
Key Attractions Along the Route:
- Cockleshell Memorial sculpture at Southsea Rose Garden
- Canoe Lake with its seawater supply
- Southsea Model Village
- Southsea Castle, built during Henry VIII’s reign
- The D-Day Story museum
- Cumberland House Natural History Museum
- Blue Reef Aquarium
Southsea Common: Walkers cross the common via the tree-lined Ladies Mile path, bordered by distinctive elm trees.
Old Portsmouth: The historic quarter features Portsmouth Cathedral with its renowned stained-glass windows, plus the Hotwalls, Square Tower, and Round Tower.
Gunwharf Quays: Shopping and dining destination crowned by the Spinnaker Tower’s panoramic viewing decks.
Final Destination: Portsmouth Historic Dockyard houses the Mary Rose, HMS Victory, and the National Museum of the Royal Navy, where visitors can spot the sculpture of a shipwright’s tool bag.
- Hampshire Council Set to Confirm New Chief Executive
- Fair Oak gets green light for walking and cycling upgrades
The five-mile Portsmouth section runs mostly on paved surfaces with minimal elevation changes. However, wheelchair users may encounter challenges at certain stepped sections, though alternative routes are provided during these segments.
Pedestrians enjoy predominantly off-road pathways, except for a brief stretch along Ferry Road on Portsea Island’s eastern side. Cyclists benefit from dedicated off-road cycle lanes and paths throughout most of the journey.
