Gosport’s Hidden Gems: A Brief Exploration
Gosport, renowned for its history as a naval base, is home to many – and despite its outward appearance as a simple town, there is more to the area than what meets the eye. There are landmarks, some already known to tourists and some underappreciated by even the locals, which are a worthwhile destination for a nice day out with family, friends, or as an individual.
Lee-on-the-Solent Beach: A popular tourist attraction, this beach possesses many characteristics to entertain, such as the seafront shops surrounded by palm trees, high street shops (varying from ice-cream to antiques), the playground, arcade and skatepark perfect for children and teens, the war memorial to commemorate the town’s history, and of course the beach itself which thrives during summertime.
Stokes Bay Beach: The beach on the opposite side of town offers a calmer alternative, with cafes like Bayside and Pebbles, the latter often providing live (usually jazz) music for the locals and tourists. The playground and splash park here also accommodate children, as well as the crazy golf course and tennis courts behind the seafront.
Stanley Park: Just behind Stokes Bay, locals are often found walking their dogs amongst the trees and foliage in this nature-filled park. It includes hidden paths within the forest, a botanical garden filled with a variety of flowers, and on the outskirts you’ll find the Alverbank hotel and restaurant for a meal and a drink.
Alver Valley: A country park with free access to all locals and tourists, concealing a plethora of scenic paths and hidden activities, such as blackberry bushes, a bridge over a river to feed the ducks, and a path emerging to reveal a wide open space of fields besides Lee-on-the-Solent neighbourhood.
Gosport Ferry: Utilised by the locals for both work travel and days out, this 5 minute ferry makes for an opportunity for tourists to explore Portsmouth, with Gunwharf Quays, the Historical Dockyards, and the Spinnaker Tower (which is visible from most areas in Gosport). Once work has been done to demolish Gosport Bus Station, a park area will be created just a short distance away from the terminal.
Gilkicker Lagoon: One of the more overlooked locations, this lagoon with glistening waters surrounded by foliage can be found beside Gilkicker Fort along the far side of Stokes Bay, where many locals stop walking. A scenic stroll or bike ride during the sunset suggests promising views of this hidden location.
Walpole Park: Beside Gosport High Street, a lake with a café following the path to the centre. This location makes for an ideal day out with family, with children able to make use of the playground and grassy areas next to it.
PICTURED: Peaceful scene from Walpole Park as one of many hidden gems across Gosport, which is visited by many residents as well as visitors to the area particularly during the summer months.
