Alexandra Park, Portsmouth

Alexandra Park Portsmouth history

Alexandra Park opened 1907, is located on the north western coast of Portsmouth between Twyford Avenue and Northern Parade, south of Hilsea and was named in honour of Princess Alexandra the Princess of Wales. Portsmouth Corporation bought the land in 1888 from the Board of Trade and Winchester College, with the plan to develop a new recreation ground, it was originally called North End Recreation Ground.

As was common during the Second World War, parks were often put to different uses, some of the buildings at Alexandra Park were used as a temporary mortuary and an anti aircraft battery was stationed here.

Amy Johnson the famous pioneering female pilot once landed her plane at Alexandra Park en route to a Civic reception. She had local connections and was also a shareholder in the Airspeed Company based at Portsmouth Airport and founded by Nevil Shute Norway.

The park has large areas of grassland, childrens play area, trees and formal planted ares, the west of Alexandra Park connects to the coastal path with views across Tipner Lake towards Portchester Castle, the coastal path leads north from the park towards Hilsea Lido. Alexandra Park is home to the Mountbatten Centre sports centre, the regional Sports Centre, which houses squash courts, tennis courts, athletics and cycling track.

Mountbatten Centre Portsmouth facilities

The Mountbatten Centre at Alexandra Park originally opened in 1979 and was redeveloped in 2009, it is a major hub for sports and fitness in the area. Named after Lord Mountbatten, the centre has expanded over the years to include a wide range of facilities for both casual users and professional athletes. Here's an overview of the sports facilities available at the Mountbatten Centre:

1. Swimming Pool. A 50-metre pool with adjustable floors, making it suitable for different skill levels and activities, including competitions and swim training.
2. Athletics Track. An 8-lane outdoor athletics track with facilities for track and field events, such as high jump, long jump, and pole vault. The track meets professional standards, often hosting regional and national athletics events.
3. Fitness Suite/Gym. A modern gym with a wide variety of cardio and strength-training equipment, including treadmills, rowing machines, weight machines, and free weights. The fitness suite caters to users of all fitness levels.
4. Sports Hall. A large, multi-purpose sports hall that accommodates activities such as badminton, basketball, volleyball, and five-a-side football. The hall is also used for various classes and events.
5. Indoor Cycling Studio. A dedicated studio for indoor cycling (spin classes), equipped with state-of-the-art bikes and sound systems for a dynamic workout experience.
6. Squash Courts. Squash courts available for recreational games and competitive play.
7. Exercise Studios. Multiple studios for group exercise classes, including yoga, Pilates, Zumba, HIIT, and aerobics. The centre offers a variety of classes to suit different fitness levels and interests.
8. Climbing Wall. A climbing wall that caters to climbers of various skill levels, providing an exciting challenge for both beginners and advanced climbers.

The centre often serves as a venue for community events, competitions, and training, making it a valuable resource for both residents and visitors interested in fitness and sports.

Alexandra Park connects to the coastal path at its western edge and walks connecting to the Hilsea Lines area are easily accessible.

You can find details of other Parks and Open Spaces in Portsmouth here.