England's naval heartland

Located in the naval heartland of England’s south coast, Portsmouth offers exciting, invigorating sailing conditions perfect for experienced sailors. Steady winds create the opportunity for thrilling tacks and gybes, with many famous races and regatta taking place in the waters of the Solent and the Isle of Wight.

Walk the impeccably restored decks of Lord Nelson’s historic HMS Victory, which led the Royal Navy fleet in the Battle of Trafalgar and was to be the site of Nelson’s tragic death. Cross the Solent to the Isle of Wight, home to the celebrated Cowes Week regatta and a popular, picturesque island resort. Further still, the English Channel gives way to France, where you can indulge in the culture and cuisine of the continent.

Closer to home you'll find the ancient woodland of the New Forest, where royals have hunted game and passed their leisure time for centuries. As well as excellent, easy hiking, the New Forest is home to a number of traditional, affluent towns and villages left largely unchanged for hundreds of years. As a sailing ground and a holiday destination, the Solent has few rivals.