Victoria Park Portsmouth

09/06/2026

Reminder that this weeks Mindful Art in the Park won't be taking place, join Think Big Do Bigger CIC on Wednesday 17 June for the next session! 🎨

🌦️ A little change of plan…

Unfortunately, our planned Mindful Art Alfresco session on Wednesday 10th June has been postponed due to the weather forecast.

While we were hoping to spend the entire session outdoors, the forecast is looking a little too unpredictable to guarantee a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Instead, we’ll be holding a special hybrid indoor/outdoor session on Wednesday 17th June, 11:30am-1:30pm at The Greenhouse, Victoria Park.

If the weather is kind to us, we’ll take some of our creative activities outside and make the most of the park. If not, we’ll have the indoor space available too, giving everyone the flexibility to choose what works best for them.

As always, the session is free to attend, adults only, and no artistic experience is needed.

We hope you’ll join us next week 💛

01/06/2026

A big thank you to all our amazing Victoria Park volunteers 🌿
From gardening and events to digital and creative projects, everything you do helps the park thrive. We’re so grateful for each and every one of you!

22/05/2026

There's lots to enjoy this month in the Greenhouse, Victoria Park🌞

Wellbeing Walks - No booking required, meet at the Guildhall Tunnel Entrance

Heritage Walk - Secure your FREE ticket by heading over to our Eventbrite Page - https://www.eventbrite.com/o/victoria-park-revitalisation-project-90356276253?aff=ebdsshcopyurl

Stretch and Relax - No booking required, meet on the grass opposite the park fountain

Mindful Art - No booking required

Photography Walk - Please register your interest by email [email protected]

Writing Workshop - Secure your ticket at https://www.william-sutton.co.uk/events/greenhouseretreat/ Online / In-person and concession tickets available

12/05/2026

This Saturday!!

Pause in the Park – Mind & Body Reset Day! 🌿

Join on Saturday 16 May, 10am to 4pm, at the Green House for a day of calm, connection, and wellbeing.

✨ Free drop in sessions including:
• Meditation
• Awakening Dance
• Sound Immersion

Discover simple ways to support your physical and mental wellbeing.

Sessions are free (limited capacity for safety).

Come reset, relax and breathe in the park! 🌼💚

11/05/2026

Join us for Mental Health Monday Walks, a series of free, guided walks taking place every Monday at 12pm in May in Victoria Park.

Led by Solent Original Walks, these gentle one‑hour walks offer more than just exercise and local history. By linking historical storytelling with modern conversations around mental health, the walks create time and space for connection, reflection, and wellbeing in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
Book your free ticker NOW https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/mental-health-mondays-4835188

08/05/2026

Our May Walks are confirmed! Book your FREE space now and experience a new approach to exploring the history of Portsmouth & Southsea.

This month, our Mental Health Monday Walks (including a very special extra addition with Victoria Park) are supporting SALT Festival, which is taking place this September.

https://solentoriginalwalks.com/

01/05/2026

Mental Health Monday's with Solent Walks starts Monday 4th May and there are still spaces to take part 🚶‍♀️

Taking place every Monday in May, from 12pm to 1pm, these gentle, guided walks explore the heritage and history of Victoria Park led by Solent Walks. Alongside this, the walks create space for reflection, connection and wellbeing in a relaxed outdoor setting. There is no expectation to talk, participants are welcome to walk, listen, or simply enjoy time in the park.

📍 Starts and finishes at The Green House, opposite the Aviary
🚶 Gentle, one‑hour guided walk
🎟️ Free but booking essential (limited spaces)

These walks are suitable for anyone looking to prioritise their mental wellbeing, learn more about the park’s heritage, or take part at a comfortable pace.

Book your free spot here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mental-health-monday-walks-victoria-park-tickets-1987829924816

01/05/2026

28/04/2026

In 2021, members of the local community came forward to share their memories of Victoria Park and the surrounding area, offering personal reflections that span childhood, work, war and everyday life.

This artwork reflects the story of Mary McDermott who volunteered at the homeless shelter in The Lodge, Victoria Park.

In December 1992, volunteers from the Oasis Church opened a night shelter in the disused lodge at Victoria Park, Portsmouth.

Although officially allowed to take only eight people overnight, demand was far greater, and volunteers regularly welcomed many more, sleeping alongside guests on the floor.

Men and women came in from the streets for warmth, food washing facilities and rest.

The shelter ran for four winters, entirely volunteer run, funded by donations and remembered for its kindness rather that it’s rules, the lodge offered safety, dignity and care to people with nowhere else to go.

Head over to our website to listen to the conversation with Mary. https://victoriaparkportsmouth.org.uk/mary-mcdermott/

Artwork produced by Art Volunteer - Jasmine Potter

27/04/2026

We're looking forward to the return of Stretch and Relax in the park! 🧘‍♀️

🌿 Big News! Stretch & Relax is Back This May 🌿

We’re delighted to announce that our much loved Stretch and Relax class is returning to Victoria Park Portsmouth on Wednesday 6th May, 10am until 11am for donation‑based outdoor sessions 🌞

This gentle, yoga inspired class is open to everyone in Portsmouth – no experience needed. You can just turn up on the day, and we’d love to have you join us.

🧘‍♀️ What to bring:
• A mat or towel (or simply enjoy the grass!)
• Comfortable clothing
• An open mind and a willingness to relax

It’s a wonderful chance to move your body, unwind your mind, and enjoy some fresh air in a friendly, inclusive space. Come alone or bring a friend – everyone is welcome 💚

🌸 Benefits of a Yoga‑Based Stretch & Relax Class
✨ Improves flexibility and joint mobility
✨ Helps release tension and stiffness in the body
✨ Supports posture and balance
✨ Encourages mindful breathing and relaxation
✨ Boosts overall wellbeing and body awareness
✨ Suitable for all ages and fitness levels

🌿 Extra Benefits of Practising Yoga Outdoors (In Nature)
🌳 Fresh air and natural surroundings can reduce stress and calm the nervous system
🌳 Being in nature can lift mood and improve mental clarity
🌳 Natural light supports energy levels and sleep rhythms
🌳 The outdoor setting helps you feel more grounded and connected
🌳 A shared green space builds a sense of community and belonging

We are pleased to say that we have received grant funding from Sport England to support this initiative, to offer the opportunity to get more people moving and improving both mental and physical health. The class is donation based to remove any financial barriers, and no one will know what you have donated. We just have some small pots on the day if you wish to or can make a donation. It would be great to see you there! We will be just next to the new Victoria Park hub.