The Weekender

Focus on Portsmouth

England's 'waterfront city' has been a thriving naval port for centuries and is the perfect place to learn about Britain's military history.

Head to the Historic Dockyard and jump aboard HMS Warrior, Mary Rose or HMS Victory – Nelson's flagship most famous for its role in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Before you leave the dockyard drop into the Royal Naval Museum, then head to the Royal Navy Submarine Museum and the Museum of Naval Firepower, both at Gosport.

War and quays

Nearby at Southsea, you'll find the Royal Marines Museum and the D-Day Museum & Overlord Embroidery, which tells of the Normandy landings in 1944.

If you're more Army & Navy than army and navy, head to Gunwharf Quays for a fab selection of ship-shape shops, eateries and drinking holes – plus a cinema, a bowling alley and a contemporary art gallery.

Enjoy panoramic views and brave the largest glass floor in Europe, on top of the Spinnaker Tower, which stands proud at 170 metres. On a good day you can see the Isle of Wight from its observation decks.

If you'd rather check out the island in person, take a 40-minute ferry ride from Gunwharf to Fishbourne, or hop on a hovercraft that'll whizz you from Southsea to Ryde in 10.

Venture into old Portsmouth, at the mouth of the harbour, for a flavour of the city in days gone by. This conservation area boasts cobbled streets and an Anglican cathedral.

The Isle Of Wight coastal path running along the edge of chalk white cliffs, view toward The Needles

Closer to home?

Check out the Catwalk Theatre, learn about the latest make-up and beauty trends, or simply chill in the Chambord Bar at London's Fashion Weekend, outside the Natural History Museum until 24 February.

Head to the Midlands for the National Boat, Caravan and Outdoor Show and the French Property Exhibition – both on until 24 February at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham.