Gilkicker Point

Gilkicker Point marks the southeastern tip of the Stokes Bay frontage, where the coast bends around the headland towards Gosport and the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour. The beach here is shingle and pebble, less groomed than the main bay to the west, and has a more open, windswept feel that suits dog walkers and those looking to escape the more populated stretch. The point takes its name from the Victorian-era fort that still stands behind the beach, a listed structure that forms part of the Palmerston Forts chain built to defend Portsmouth from seaward attack. Views from the point extend east across the harbour mouth to Southsea and north towards Portchester, with heavy ship and ferry traffic making for an engaging backdrop.

Gilkicker Point falls outside the seasonal dog restriction zones that apply to the main Stokes Bay beach, meaning dogs are welcome here year-round with no restrictions. The shingle foreshore and grassy areas around the fort make for a satisfying off-lead walk, and the point connects naturally to the wider Stokes Bay promenade for a longer outing. There is some roadside and informal parking near Gilkicker Road, and the site has toilets nearby. The beach is unsupervised and has no lifeguards, so care is needed in the water, particularly near the harbour mouth where tidal currents can be strong.