Graduation 2024

From food spots to photo opportunities, here鈥檚 a guide to making your graduation day unforgettable.

3 min read

Alumni Alumni Graduation

Graduation is finally here! After years of hard work, you鈥檙e crossing the stage and will throw your cap in the air. Whether you're planning a big celebration or keeping it simple with loved ones, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your day in 小蓝视频.

Parking

First things first, if you鈥檙e driving, do you know where to park? Take some of the worries away and park at 小蓝视频 Grammar School for the day. And for just 拢10, it鈥檒l make your day that much smoother and enjoyable. for a guaranteed space.

Start at the Graduation Village

Before heading off, be sure to swing by the reception in the Graduation Village, located in Ravelin Park right outside Ravelin Sports Centre. It鈥檚 the perfect place to gather with family and friends straight after your ceremony.

Grab a glass of fizz (there will be non-alcoholic options too), strike a pose in the complimentary photobooth run by the Alumni Team and get your free printed postcard to take away and cherish forever!

In case you're peckish, there will also be food vendors selling loaded fries, BBQ bowls, strawberries and cream, ice cream, as well as a bar to purchase additional drinks. You'll also have the opportunity to grab UoP merchandise including the very popular graduation bears (and flip flops in case your feet hurt!)

Restaurants and food spots worth booking

From seafront dining to cosy pubs and hidden gems, you鈥檒l find something to suit every group, vibe, and budget. It鈥檚 best to reserve a table in advance, since graduation week gets busy!

  • Brasserie Blanc is a classic choice at Gunwharf Quays with elegant French dishes. Quote 鈥榞raduation鈥 when making your reservation and to your server, so graduates get a complimentary glass of fizz. All guests who order 2 courses including the main from the ALC or specials are also eligible.
  • The Still and West - a traditional pub with gorgeous harbour views.
  • At Frankie and Benny鈥檚 grads can enjoy a free main! Book your table then show your results to your server to get the offer.

  • Guildhall Village is right by the ceremony venue and a top pick for drinks post-stage. Free glass of prosecco for grads, and they鈥檙e streaming all the ceremonies too.
  • Grab your cap and gown and head to The Fleet for a celebratory drink 鈥 they鈥檙e offering graduates a free glass of bubbly and showing ceremonies live with sound.
  • Brewhouse and Kitchen鈥檚 鈥淗oppy Days鈥 offer runs all week (Mon鈥揊ri, 12鈥6pm), with 拢3.50 drinks across a wide range.

  • Sopranos, a cosy, family-run Italian in Southsea that鈥檚 big on atmosphere.
  • The Rocka, known for its bold d茅cor and upbeat vibe, ideal for something with flair.
  • Smoke & Mirrors, a fun pick if you want to keep things casual and lively after the ceremony.
  • Dice is a great place to celebrate with food, drink and a wide range of board games.
  • Gunwharf Quays isn鈥檛 a venue itself, but a great option overall. With plenty of restaurants and bars all in one place, plus amazing waterfront views and outlet shopping if you're making a full day of it.

Activities to keep the celebrations going

Not everyone wants to go straight from gown to dinner table. If you鈥檙e looking to make a day of it, 小蓝视频 offers plenty to do, whether you want to chill, have fun, or try something new.

Here are some ideas:

  • Mini-golf or bowling with your coursemates.
  • A relaxing walk along the seafront or through Southsea Common.
  • Independent caf茅s or dessert spots for a sweet celebration.
  • Vintage shops or arcades if you鈥檙e feeling nostalgic.

Picture-perfect photo spots

Graduation isn鈥檛 complete without a few iconic photos, and 小蓝视频 is full of beautiful backdrops!

Start with the photobooth at the Graduation Village and get your free photo booth picture, but don鈥檛 stop there. Here are some local favourites for extra snaps:

  • The Southsea Bandstand.
  • Rose Garden in Southsea.
  • The beach huts along Eastney or South Parade Pier.
  • Canoe Lake for a relaxed, leafy vibe.
  • On the steps of the Guildhall or the University logo wall.

Bring your friends, your family, and your best smile!

Final tip

Whether you're heading out for dinner, planning a seaside stroll, or just soaking it all in at the Graduation Village, remember this day is yours. Celebrate in whatever way feels most you, and take the time to appreciate just how far you鈥檝e come.

From everyone at 小蓝视频: congratulations, and enjoy every moment.