Spinnaker Tower

On Saturday we visited some old Friends near Portsmouth. As it was such a nice day we decided to visit the 170m tall Spinnaker Tower. It was meant to be called the Millennium Tower, but after it missed its opening date by 6 years it was renamed! There are 3 floors at the top to view the surrounding city, countryside and sea.

Despite a half hour wait to pay and queue for the one serviceable lift, it wasn't too busy at the top. The Italian built exterior lift has yet to be put into operation as it hasn't worked - ever!

'HMS Warrier 1860', the UKs first armoured warship and Her Majesties Naval Dockyard, Portsmouth.

'Spice Island' and the 'Still and West', both famous pubs in Old Portsmouth, at the mouth of the Harbour.

Gosport Marina on the right, with Haslar Hospital (the former Royal Naval Hospital) and Fort Blockhouse on the left and the Isle of Wight in the background.

Across old Portsmouth towards Southsea. An Isle of Wight ferry is making its way in. The Solent Forts are in visible too.

The lowest deck has the largest glass floor in Europe, which you are welcome to walk on as long as you remove your shoes. For some reason most people didn't want to do this. I leapt at the opportunity (on re-reading this perhaps that wasn't the best choice of words). I though it was great!

The top deck is exposed to the elements. The views are quite restricted too - we all thought the lower decks were better.

Portsmouth Harbour towards Fareham Creek, with some of the many warships being disposed of in the latest round of defence cuts.

HMS Victory and whats left of the Royal Navy.

French state owned Brittany Ferries are now the only cross channel line operating out of Portsmouth after P&O left.

A little hazy, but still a clear view of Roman built Portchester Castle across Portsmouth Harbour.