Spinnaker Tower Portsmouth
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Spinnaker Tower

4.6
·10k reviews·, United Kingdom

Soar to breathtaking heights for 360° views of Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight from this iconic landmark.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Fewer crowds, more relaxing

CrowdLow
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Spinnaker Tower Portsmouth

Spinnaker Tower

Best Time

Late afternoon

Fewer crowds, more relaxing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Soar to breathtaking heights for 360° views of Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight from this iconic landmark.

4.6
(10k reviews)

"Gorgeous views all round, it was fun watching ferries and other shipping coming in and out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Online 24hrs Ahead

Get a discount by booking tickets online at least a day in advance. :ticket:

☀️ Check Weather Forecast

Clear skies mean spectacular views! Don't miss out on the best vistas. :sunny:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Viewing Decks

Panoramic Viewing Decks

Multiple levels

Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight.

Reddit
The Glass Floor

The Glass Floor

Viewing deck

Dare to walk on the transparent floor, offering a thrilling view straight down to the ground below.

Reddit
Sky Garden

Sky Garden

Top level

An open-air observation deck providing a unique perspective and a breath of fresh air.

Reddit
Afternoon Tea Experience

Afternoon Tea Experience

Cafe

Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea with unparalleled views from high above the city.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Savings

Save money by booking your Spinnaker Tower tickets online at least 24 hours in advance. Prices are significantly higher if you pay on the day, so plan ahead to get the best value for your visit. Reddit

Weather is Key for Views

The Spinnaker Tower offers stunning panoramic views, but these are highly dependent on the weather. Check the forecast before you go and aim for a clear, sunny day to maximize your experience and photo opportunities. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxing
Crowd
Low
When
Clear, sunny days
Why
Best views guaranteed
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Potentially fewer school groups
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A guide to the #spinnakertower in #portsmouth #hampshire #isleofwight #royalnavy #britishhumour #ukcomedy
@philc84
49.2K likes • 354.5K views

🎯 Book Online 24hrs Ahead

Get a discount by booking tickets online at least a day in advance. Reddit :ticket:

☀️ Check Weather Forecast

Clear skies mean spectacular views! Don't miss out on the best vistas. Reddit :sunny:

Spinnaker Tower stands at 170 metres tall, offering breath-taking 23 mile views over Portsmouth Harbour, the city, the Solent, the South Downs and the Isle of Wight. The iconic destination boasts a high speed lift and three sky-high viewing decks. #portsmouth #city #spinnakertower #night #miracle
@dvps.differnt.lif
4.2K likes • 47.4K views
📍Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth, UK🇬🇧 #spinnakertower #portsmouth #portsmouthnh #unitedkingsom
@geounkwn
1.9K likes • 141.1K views

☕ Enjoy Coffee & Cake

The coffee lounge on the middle deck is a great spot for a break. Reddit :coffee:

🚶‍♀️ Consider a Day Ticket

Allows re-entry, perfect for enjoying views at different times of day. Reddit :walking:

Watch @Ashley Roberts take on the very first ‘Herculean Challenge’ for @Global’s Make Some Noise scaling Portsmouth’s iconic @Spinnaker Tower! This is not for the faint-hearted… 🫣
@thisisheart
1.5K likes • 59.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Online 24hrs Ahead

Get a discount by booking tickets online at least a day in advance. Reddit :ticket:

☀️ Check Weather Forecast

Clear skies mean spectacular views! Don't miss out on the best vistas. Reddit :sunny:

☕ Enjoy Coffee & Cake

The coffee lounge on the middle deck is a great spot for a break. Reddit :coffee:

🚶‍♀️ Consider a Day Ticket

Allows re-entry, perfect for enjoying views at different times of day. Reddit :walking:

🎶 Avoid Loud Music

Some visitors found live music too loud for conversation. Reddit :musical_note:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Spinnaker Tower for its spectacular panoramic views and the unique thrill of the glass floor. Many recommend booking tickets in advance for cost savings and suggest visiting on a clear day for the best experience. While some find it a bit pricey, the overall consensus is that it's a worthwhile attraction for its breathtaking vistas and memorable moments. Reddit

"I was lucky with the weather and had gorgeous views all round. It was fun watching ferries and other shipping coming in and out. One ferry had some nail biting moments entering a narrow port area! Next time I will book an afternoon tea up in the clouds."

Kate Arnett

"Great venue but totally closed with lights off until they reopen at 7pm. Views were amazing but the live saxophone was way too much. Had to leave early. We were yelling across the table to converse"

Russell Martin

"Worth booking at least 24hrs in advance on line to get a discount. Pay on the day is £18.95 adult price. Get the lift to the viewing gallery and see great views across Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent and the Isle of Wight. There is a section of glass floor you can walk over looking all the way down to the ground. There are stairs leading further up to the outdoor garden. There is a cafe in the tower or plenty of eating places in the surrounding area."

Shaun Jasper

What People Like

Amazing panoramic views
Thrilling glass floor
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Weather dependent views

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Spinnaker Tower is easily accessible on foot from Portsmouth city centre, located at the waterfront. If you're arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Portsmouth Harbour station. Taxis are also readily available. Reddit

Yes, there are several car parks near the Spinnaker Tower, including the nearby Gunwharf Quays shopping centre. Be aware that parking charges apply. Reddit

To get to Spinnaker Tower from Gosport, you'll need to take a ferry across Portsmouth Harbour. The ferry will drop you off within walking distance of the tower. Reddit

Absolutely! The tower is well-served by public transport. Buses stop frequently near Gunwharf Quays, and Portsmouth Harbour train station is a short walk away. Reddit

The closest train station is Portsmouth Harbour. The main bus routes also serve the Gunwharf Quays area, making it very convenient to reach. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

On-the-day adult tickets are around £18.95. Booking online at least 24 hours in advance offers a significant discount, making it much more affordable. Reddit

While you can buy tickets on the day, it's highly recommended to book at least 24 hours in advance online to secure a discount and guarantee your entry time. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Spinnaker Tower website for the most up-to-date information. Some reviews mention it being closed with lights off until a specific evening reopening time. Reddit

Yes, the best discount is achieved by booking your tickets online at least 24 hours before your visit. Look out for special offers or family packages. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the Spinnaker Tower on the day of your visit, but be prepared for a higher price compared to advance online bookings. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At the top, you can enjoy panoramic views from the viewing decks, walk on the thrilling glass floor, and visit the open-air Sky Garden. There's also a cafe for refreshments. Reddit

The glass floor offers a unique and exhilarating experience, allowing you to see directly down to the ground. It's a highlight for many visitors, but can be daunting for those with a fear of heights. Reddit

The views are spectacular and extensive, offering 360-degree vistas of Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent, the Isle of Wight, and the surrounding coastline, especially on a clear day. Reddit

Kids often enjoy the novelty of the glass floor and the expansive views. The tower can be busy with school groups, indicating it's a popular educational and fun outing for children. Reddit

The main viewing experience is across multiple levels, including the main decks and the Sky Garden. You can move between these areas to experience different perspectives. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a coffee lounge on the middle deck offering drinks and snacks, and it's noted for its good service. Afternoon tea is also available for a special treat. Reddit

The cafe typically offers coffee, tea, cakes, and light refreshments. For more substantial meals, there are numerous dining options available in the surrounding Gunwharf Quays area. Reddit

Absolutely! Spinnaker Tower offers an 'afternoon tea up in the clouds' experience, which is a popular choice for a special occasion or a leisurely visit. Reddit

Yes, the Spinnaker Tower is located within Gunwharf Quays, a large shopping and dining complex with a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to suit all tastes. Reddit

While specific prices aren't detailed, reviews suggest the cafe is a pleasant spot for a break. Dining at Gunwharf Quays offers a range of price points. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The panoramic views from the top decks are incredible for photography. Don't miss shots of the harbour, the glass floor, and the cityscape. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos from the glass floor, but be mindful of other visitors and ensure your camera is secure. It offers a unique perspective looking straight down. Reddit

Cloudy days can offer softer light, which can be good for portraits. However, for expansive landscape shots, clear weather is definitely preferable for maximum visibility. Reddit

Yes, some visitors mention purchasing photos taken by the tower's staff, which can be downloaded later. Reddit

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful light. However, daytime on a clear day provides the best visibility for wide-ranging shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Spinnaker Tower offers a unique experience for families. The glass floor is a definite highlight for children, providing a thrilling and memorable moment. The expansive views also offer a great opportunity to point out ships, boats, and landmarks, making it an engaging educational outing. Reddit

To manage the visit, consider booking tickets in advance to save money and potentially secure a less crowded time slot. Visiting in the late afternoon might be less hectic than the morning, which can be busy with school groups. The cafe offers a convenient spot for a snack or drink, and the surrounding Gunwharf Quays area has plenty of family-friendly dining options for before or after your tower visit. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the key is advance online booking. Purchasing tickets at least 24 hours ahead can significantly reduce the cost compared to on-the-day prices. Reddit While the entry fee is an expense, the panoramic views offer a lot of value. Reddit

To save further, consider packing your own snacks and drinks, or opt for the more affordable cafe options rather than a full afternoon tea. Exploring the surrounding Gunwharf Quays area offers a wide range of dining choices, allowing you to find more budget-friendly meals outside the tower itself. Reddit

💑 Couples

The Spinnaker Tower provides a romantic setting, especially with its afternoon tea experience offering stunning views as a backdrop. Booking an evening slot could also be a lovely way to see the city lights twinkle. Reddit

Consider a day ticket to enjoy the views at different times, perhaps a daytime visit followed by a sunset or evening experience. The unique perspective from the glass floor can be a fun, shared thrill. Afterwards, explore the many restaurants and bars at Gunwharf Quays for a romantic dinner or drinks. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing the Views

The Spinnaker Tower offers a multi-level viewing experience that is its primary draw. Visitors can ascend to the highest observation deck for unparalleled 360-degree vistas. On a clear day, the views stretch across Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent, and out to the Isle of Wight. Many visitors highlight the thrill of the glass floor, a transparent section that allows you to look directly down to the ground, offering a unique and somewhat dizzying perspective. Reddit

Beyond the main viewing decks, the Sky Garden provides an open-air element, allowing you to feel the breeze and experience the views from a different vantage point. The tower's design ensures that no matter where you stand, the expansive scenery is the star. It's recommended to check the weather forecast before your visit, as visibility is crucial for enjoying these breathtaking sights to their fullest. Reddit

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the coffee lounge on the middle deck offers a chance to relax and enjoy the views with a drink and a snack. Some visitors also opt for the special afternoon tea experience, combining culinary delights with the spectacular backdrop. The tower also provides opportunities for photography, with many visitors capturing stunning images of the maritime activity in the harbour and the coastline. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Tickets & Timing

To make the most of your Spinnaker Tower visit and budget, booking tickets online at least 24 hours in advance is strongly advised. This strategy can lead to significant savings compared to purchasing tickets on the day of your visit, where prices are considerably higher. Reddit It's also wise to check the official website for the most current opening hours, as these can vary, and some reviews indicate potential closures or specific evening reopening times. Reddit

Timing your visit can greatly impact your experience. While sunny days offer the best visibility, they can also be busier, especially with school groups during peak times. Visiting in the late afternoon is often recommended by travellers as it tends to be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Reddit If you're interested in a day ticket, which allows re-entry, this can be a good option to capture views at different times of the day, perhaps enjoying the daylight and then returning for evening city lights. Reddit

Consider the weather when planning. While the views are spectacular on a clear day, even on a slightly overcast day, the atmosphere can be dramatic. However, for the most expansive and detailed views, a bright, sunny day is ideal. Some visitors have noted that live music, while potentially enjoyable, can sometimes be too loud for comfortable conversation, so factor this into your timing if you prefer a quieter experience. Reddit

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