The Common arose from the military’s desire in the early nineteenth century for a clear range of fire from the harbor defenses at any enemy ships that dared to approach Portsmouth and its dockyard.
Southsea Common is a large open space bought from the War Department in 1922.
The neighborhood is close to the popular seafront promenade and beach, which is ideal for kite flying, picnics, and informal ball games. Southsea Common is a park.