Spinnaker Tower stands on the waterfront at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth and rises 170 metres above the harbour. It opened in 2005 and takes its name from the sail carried by yachts. A lift takes visitors to three levels: a glass floor at 100 metres, the Cloud Cafe at 105 metres, and an open-air Sky Garden at 110 metres. On a clear day the views reach up to 23 miles, across the harbour, the Solent and the Isle of Wight.
From the millennium plan to 2005
The tower was first planned as the Portsmouth Millennium Tower, to mark the turn of the millennium. It opened in 2005 and forms the centrepiece of the Renaissance of Portsmouth Harbour Project.
Construction began in November 2001 with a concrete dam built to protect the site from the sea. Piles were then driven into the seabed to form the foundations.
The design was chosen by local residents from a selection of options. The shape recalls a spinnaker sail billowing in the wind, which gives the tower its name.
How a visit works
A lift carries you to the top of the tower in under a minute. The ticket is valid all day, so you can leave and return on the same ticket.
There are three viewing levels. The glass floor is at 100 metres. The Cloud Cafe is at 105 metres. The open-air Sky Garden is at 110 metres and is the highest point. There is no time limit once you are up.
For those who want more, abseiling down the side of the tower is possible between April and September.
Food and drink
The Cloud Cafe serves drinks and afternoon tea with a view over the harbour. Afternoon teas need to be booked in advance. A café on the ground floor serves cakes and tea.
The menu includes cream tea and sparkling wine, and the food is made with good quality, branded products.
Getting there and access
The tower is beside the shops and restaurants of Gunwharf Quays. The closest car park is the Gunwharf Keys underground car park. Free and paid parking is available nearby, as well as paid street parking.
The entrance, seating and restrooms are wheelchair accessible, and there is a changing table. Families with children will find activities that suit younger visitors.
FAQ
Do I need to book ahead?
Advance tickets are recommended. Afternoon teas at the Cloud Cafe also need to be booked in advance.
How long do you need?
Allow about 1 hour for your visit.
Is the tower wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, seating and restrooms are listed as wheelchair accessible, and there is accessible parking.
Can I leave and come back on the same ticket?
Yes. The ticket is valid all day, so you can visit in daylight and return for the sunset or the night-time skyline.
Can you abseil down the tower?
Abseiling is available between April and September.
