Upper Mount House

The Georgian townhouse sits just streets back from Southsea's shingle seafront, close enough to hear gulls calling over the naval dockyard.

This is a proper guest house rather than a traditional campsite, though camping pods sit in the grounds alongside B&B rooms — ideal for couples after a coastal break without the full canvas experience, or families wanting a roof option with a bit more character than a chain hotel. Southsea's all about the long promenade walks, the historic fortifications at Southsea Castle, and being Portsmouth's breezier, more relaxed seaside suburb. Dogs are welcome by arrangement, so worth checking ahead if you're travelling with one.

Facilities aren't spelled out, so expect guest house basics rather than campsite amenities — you're staying in someone's home rather than a field. Campfires are allowed but check the rules when you arrive, likely dependent on which pitch you're on. Open all year, which makes it handy for winter city breaks or off-season coastal walks when most campsites have locked the gates. The feel is intimate and urban-coastal rather than rural escape.