Spinnaker Tower: Tickets, Prices, Opening Hours, What to Expect

Explore the Spinnaker Tower’s panoramic views, thrilling Sky Walk, and waterfront dining. Book your tickets early for this architectural marvel offering unforgettable experiences above Portsmouth’s harbor.

Portsmouth, off the south coast of England, has been a key maritime and trade hub for centuries, known for its naval history and seafaring adventures.

Amidst this historic city, a modern marvel called Spinnaker Tower, stands out with its sail-shaped design.

This architectural gem offers stunning views of the sky, ocean, and city, inviting visitors to experience a unique journey beyond Portsmouth’s storied waterfront.

This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets to Spinnaker Tower.

Top Tickets

# Spinnaker Tower Entry Ticket
# Portsmouth Spinnaker Tower Abseiling Experience

It’s highly recommended to book your Spinnaker Tower tickets in advance. These tickets sell out quickly, so securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.

Key takeaways

Booking tickets online is better to avoid long queues, especially during peak seasons.

Adventure seekers can try the the Spinnaker abseiling experience (rappelling). However, it isn’t recommended for pregnant women and kids below 14 years.

Plan your visit at 10 am or at 5 pm for a less crowded experience. Sunset hours give you the best views of the harbor and the surroundings.

You’ll need about 1 to 1.5 hours for a visit to the Tower. Add an extra hour if you have booked the abseiling experience.

What’s ahead

Things to know before booking tickets

You can buy Spinnaker Tower tickets online or at the attraction.

Online tickets let you skip the lines, often at a lower price, while also guaranteeing availability for your visit.

After the purchase, tickets are emailed to you, and you can enter by showing the e-ticket on your smartphone—no printouts needed.

Remember to bring your official IDs.

Spinnaker Tower tickets

Here are two options for you to choose from when booking tickets to this attraction:

Portsmouth Spinnaker Tower entry ticket

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With this ticket, you gain unlimited same-day access to the Spinnaker Tower’s viewing platforms.

Experience the south coast’s most spectacular views from this 170-meter-tall landmark (557 feet), including breathtaking sights over Portsmouth Harbour, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight.

Walk the thrilling glass Sky Walk 100 meters (328 feet) above sea level and enjoy the open-air Sky Garden at 110 meters (360 feet).

Enhance your visit with touch screen view interpretation.

Ticket prices

Adult (16 to 64 years): £18
Child (4 to 15 years): £14
Senior (64+ years): £17
Student (with valid ID): £17
Infant (up to 3 years): Free

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Recommended


Portsmouth Spinnaker Tower Abseiling Experience ticket

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With this ticket, you will get access to the tower’s viewing platforms and a fully trained team that will facilitate an hour-long adventure sporting experience.

An expert team will provide you with all safety equipment and instructions during the abseiling (rappelling) experience.

The experience is limited to a maximum of six people at a time. It isn’t suitable for children under 14 years old or pregnant women.

Ticket price: £110

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Related: Best times to visit observation decks for stunning views

Opening hours

Spinnaker Tower stays open to all visitors Monday to Thursday from 10.30 am to 6 pm.

From Friday to Sunday, the attraction opens at 10 am and closes at 6 pm.

The Spinnaker Kitchen and Bar is open from 10 am to 6 pm throughout the week.

How long does the tour take

The Spinnaker Tower tour usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes.

For those interested in the abseiling adventure, it is advisable to allocate an additional hour.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Spinnaker Tower is when it opens around 10 am. The attraction is less crowded at this time.

Another good time is in the evening around 5 pm when it isn’t usually crowded. During sunset hours, you can also witness the exquisite harbor bathed in sunlight.

Spinnaker Tower restaurants: The Clouds Cafe

Savor a delectable treat while admiring the inspiring views of the ocean from The Clouds Cafe eatery, perched 105 meters (345 feet) above the ground. The Clouds Cafe is famous for its high tea experience. The restaurant is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm.

Frequently asked questions

Here are a few questions that visitors usually ask before visiting Spinnaker Tower:

Is Spinnaker Tower disability friendly?

Yes, the attraction is wheelchair accessible except for certain areas. The viewing deck is 100 meters (328 feet), and the Clouds Cafe is 105 meters (345 feet), which can be accessed by the elevator.
 
However, its highest viewing deck, the Skydeck, can only be accessed by stairs.

What does the Spinnaker Tower general admission ticket include, and where can I book it?

General admission tickets include the Sail of the Solent introductory film and access to the main viewing platform, which also features a glass floor. We recommend booking tickets online to avoid last-minute disappointments as tickets tend to sell out fast.

What happens if the weather is bad at the Spinnaker Tower?

If the weather impacts the view to the extent that you cannot see the 3 Solent Forts just beyond the Harbour from the viewing deck, you will be offered a free return visit for another day.

What to expect

Admire the ambitious architecture of the Spinnaker Tower, designed to resemble the billowing sails of a yacht.

Created by HGP Architects, this attraction features three sail-like viewing decks offering unparalleled panoramic views of Portsmouth, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight. At night, the illuminated sails create a striking spectacle along the waterfront.

Take a high-speed elevator to the View Deck and enjoy 360-degree vistas of the city, harbor, and sea.

Test your courage on the Sky Walk, a glass floor providing a dizzying view of the harbor below. Interactive touchscreens offer insights into Portsmouth’s history and landmarks.

For thrill-seekers, a guided abseiling experience from 100 meters (328 feet) up is available.

After exploring, relax at the Spinnaker Kitchen and Bar or enjoy afternoon tea at the Clouds cafe, 105 meters (344 feet) above ground, with stunning views of Portsmouth’s waterfront.

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Researched & written by
Jamshed is a versatile traveler, equally drawn to the vibrant energy of city escapes and the peaceful solitude of remote getaways. On some trips, he indulges in resort hopping, while on others, he spends little time in his accommodation, fully immersing himself in the destination. A passionate foodie, Jamshed delights in exploring local cuisines, with a particular love for flavorful non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

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