This Autumn & Winter in Portsmouth 2025 – adventures on the mainland

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Portsmouth. Touring season brings huge shows to the city’s theatres and venues, there are some big events in the city’s calendar making their return and a whole host of family-friendly activities will run over the October and Christmas school holidays.

As we look ahead toward Christmas, then panto takes centre stage – oh yes it does! There are plenty to choose from in Portsmouth; the Kings Theatre is putting on Aladdin (which sees the return of Shaun Williamson by huge popular demand), while the New Theatre Royal has Snow White and for Portsmouth Guildhall it’s the turn of Cinderella.

If festive shopping holds more appeal, then be sure to visit some of the city’s many artisan markets. Port Solent, Portsmouth Cathedral, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Hotwalls Studios will be among those welcoming some of the best makers the South has to offer, so you can give gifts that are truly unique.

Keep an eye on the Visit Portsmouth website for dates and details on all the city’s festive events, as well as everything else there is to see and do at the Great Waterfront City. There are festive film screenings, Christmas concerts and loads more besides – so make sure you don’t miss out on what’s going on!