2025 6 Top Hotels to Stay

The coastal city of Portsmouth is experiencing a renaissance. No longer just a stopover for ferries or a destination solely for naval history buffs, it has evolved into a vibrant waterfront city with a booming culinary scene, world-class outlet shopping at Gunwharf Quays, and a stunning coastline in Southsea.

Whether you are visiting for the Victorian Festival of Christmas, the Great South Run, or a summer seaside getaway, choosing the right base is crucial.

Here is a curated guide to the top-rated hotels in Portsmouth for late 2024 and 2025, categorised by travel style.

1. The Grand Dame: The Queens Hotel

• Best for: Luxury seekers, history lovers, and sea views.

• Location: Southsea (overlooking the Solent).

If you want the "wow" factor, The Queens Hotel is the undisputed choice. This Edwardian masterpiece has recently undergone a multi-million-pound restoration, returning it to its former glory. It stands proudly on the edge of Southsea Common, commanding uninterrupted views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight.

• Why it’s top-rated: It strikes the perfect balance between historic grandeur and modern luxury. The high ceilings and chandeliers in the lobby set a tone that continues into the rooms, many of which feature balconies.

The Highlight: Dinner at the 1865 Restaurant, which serves excellent British cuisine in a setting that feels like a scene from The Great Gatsby.

2. The Boutique Trio: The Florence Collection

• Best for: Couples, quiet retreats, and personalised service.

• Location: Quiet residential streets in Southsea (minutes from the beach).

"The Florence" actually refers to a collection of sister properties managed by the same group: Florence House, Florence Gardens, and Florence Suite. These are consistently the highest-rated boutique options in the city. Located just a short walk from the seafront, they offer a much more intimate experience than the big chain hotels.

• Why it’s top-rated: They feel like a home away from home. The decor is eclectic and colourful, steering clear of "hotel beige."

The Highlight: Their Gastro Pub (The Garden Southsea) is a hidden gem for breakfast and evening meals, featuring a lovely outdoor space for summer drinks.

3. Historic Charm: Ye Spotted Dogge

• Best for: Atmosphere, history buffs, and an "olde worlde" feel.

• Location: Old Portsmouth.

Often topping review charts with near-perfect scores, Ye Spotted Dogge is not your average hotel. It is a historic property located in the heart of Old Portsmouth, surrounded by cobblestone streets and fortifications.

• Why it’s top-rated: It is arguably the most atmospheric stay in the city. Guests rave about the preservation of historic features—think exposed beams and creaky floorboards—paired with modern luxury bathrooms.

• The Highlight: The location. You are steps away from the "Hot Walls" (historic fortifications turned into art studios) and the best spot in the city to watch ships enter the harbour.

4. Modern & Social: Village Hotel Portsmouth

• Best for: Families, fitness enthusiasts, and business travellers.

• Location: Lakeside North Harbour (North of the city centre).

If you prefer slick, modern amenities over creaky historic floors, the Village Hotel is the top choice. While it is located slightly outside the main tourist hubs (about a 10-15 minute drive to the Historic Dockyard), it makes up for it with facilities that other Portsmouth hotels simply cannot match.

• Why it’s top-rated: The amenities are superior. It boasts a full-sized indoor swimming pool, a massive state-of-the-art gym, a sauna, and a steam room.

The Highlight: The "Pub & Grill" and on-site Starbucks make it a self-contained resort. It is perfect for rainy days when you want to keep the kids entertained without leaving the hotel.

5. The Dockyard Specialist: The Ship Leopard Hotel

• Best for: Adults-only peace and proximity to the Naval Base.

• Location: The Hard (Directly next to the Historic Dockyard and Train Station).

This is a favourite for those coming specifically to see the Mary Rose Museum or HMS Victory. It is an "Adults Only" hotel, which ensures a quiet night's sleep despite being in one of the busiest parts of the city.

• Why it’s top-rated: The location is unbeatable for sightseeing. You are literally across the street from the train station and the entrance to the dockyard. The rooms are surprisingly plush for a pub-hotel, with high-quality linens and modern bathrooms.

The Highlight: The view. Request a front-facing room to watch the ferries and naval destroyers glide into the harbour right from your window.

6. Waterfront Luxury: Portsmouth Marriott Hotel

• Best for: Reliable comfort and consistency.

• Location: Cosham (North Portsmouth, near the motorway).

A consistent heavy hitter in the ratings, the Marriott offers the reliability you expect from the brand. It is often used as a base for those exploring the wider Hampshire area because of its easy access to the M27.

• Why it’s top-rated: The bedding is famously comfortable, and the service is professional and polished.

The Highlight: The rooms have been refreshed recently, and the "Cast Iron Bar & Grill" serves a fantastic steak.

Whether you’re visiting for romance, relaxation, family fun, history or a spot of retail therapy, Portsmouth has a hotel that fits the moment perfectly. From the elegant sea-view balconies at the Queens Hotel to the quiet charm of Ye Spotted Dogge and Florence House, the city offers stays with real personality. Families can count on the buzz of the Village Hotel, naval-history fans will love the Ship Leopard Hotel, and shoppers can’t beat the convenience of the Holiday Inn Express right inside Gunwharf Quays. Whatever brings you here, there’s a perfect place to rest your head as you explore everything Portsmouth has to offer.