Southsea Castle was constructed by Henry VIII in 1544, and was built to protect the country against an invasion. After touring this magnificent castle, which is located close to the Southsea Seafront, which impresses everyone with its 6.5 km of coastline, you can then visit the Royal Marines Museum, which is in the same region. Here you can discover the exciting stories of the Royal Navy. Blue Reef Aquarium is situated on Clarance Esplanade region of Southsea and is a unique place to visit, where you can take a journey through the wonders of the underwater. You can have a great day out at Blue Reef Aquarium, which welcomes its visitors between 10.00 and 16.00 every day. You should definitely include Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum, Royal Garrison Church, Cumberland House Natural History Museum and Spitbank Fort in Commercial Road to your list of places to visit in Portsmouth. Southsea Common, which is often preferred by families with children, is one of the most popular places to have a picnic.You can take a walk on the Renaissance Trail around the Millennium Promenade, tour the historic harbor by boat and to experience the nightlife of Portsmouth, you should head for Clarence Pier. Don't forget to stop by The Bandstand, where there are live music events every Sunday during the summer months. There are lots of eating and drinking places in Gunwharf Quays region which offer stylish venues overlooking the harbor. Albert Road is a place where you will find many Indian restaurants, wine bars and cafes. You may also be interested in Palmerston Road and Guildhall, which are home to a number of pubs and bars, such as Walkabout, Yates, Wetherspoons, Route 66 and Babylon. The first places that come to mind if you would like to go shopping in Portsmouth are Commercial Road & Cascades, Gunwharf Quays outlet stores, Southsea Town Center and Fratton and North End, where you can find souvenir shops.