Portsmouth house buying guide

Famed for its beach, the Victorian suburb of Southsea is located at the southern end of Portsea Island.

But Southsea hasn't just got a Victoria past - there is also a castle built in the time of Henry VIII, as well as the Royal Marines Museum.

But it’s not all history! There is a range of charming cafes and coffee houses too, as well as local, independent shops and trendy restaurants along Albert Road.

Southsea also has good transport links into the centre, as well as a regular ferry rides over to the Isle of Wight.

Copnor is a small, mostly residential suburb of Portsmouth located on the eastern part of Portsea Island.

The area is very green thanks to Great Salterns and the Lake across from Hayling Island, making it a great choice if you want choices of near by day trips into nature.

As a quiet area, it's popular amongst families looking to buy a home in Portsmouth but away from the hustle and bustle.

There is also a good selection of schools to choose from which is a key consideration for any buyers with kids.

North of Portsmouth you'll find Drayton and Farlington, located on the mainline rather than Portsea Island.

It's largely residential, with a lot of the homes built in the 1920s and 1970s as well as large green spaces parks like Zetland Park, Drayton Park and a nature reserve - perfect for young or growing families.

Thanks to the many small hills, a number of properties have views across the lake and harbour - so you can enjoy being close to the coast without being in the heart of the city!