The Friends of Portswood Rec (FoPR) is a group of local people who enjoy visiting this green space. Working with both Southampton City Council (SCC) and other groups, we're aiming to improve facilities and increase biodiversity in the Rec, so that it's truly a place for everyone. We're doing this, as volunteers, through initiatives such as the weekly gardening group, and ongoing fundraising for new facilities. Find out how to find us.

The Rec is a hidden gem, as you can see from our video - "Portswood Rec - a Place for Everyone". Shot over different times of year, it highlights how much enjoyment this green space can bring to both adults and children across our wide-ranging community.

Our neighbours at Highfield Residents Association (HRA) celebrate their 50th anniversary in 2026 with a series of events planned through the year focusing on community involvement. FoPR were honoured to be chosen as HRA's January partner. Denise and Garth Long led a group of around 17 HRA members on a guided walk round the Rec on 24 January. Exploring the history, planting and wildlife, it was a great opportunity to show what we've achieved in recent years.

A date for your diary: this year's AGM will be held on 18 March 2026 at 19.45 at our favourite venue - the Scout Hut in Brickfield Road (entrance almost opposite Somerset Road).

Our Gardening Group are taking a break over the winter but will start up again around the end of March, most probably on alternate Saturdays and Sundays again. Do give us a shout if you'd like to find out more. And - if compost floats your boat - we've had a hot line to the experts! The photo shows some of the delegation onsite at Aldermoor Farm. More about this, including next season's dates, on the Gardening page.

Do you have access to a garden yourself, or a patio planter? If so, you'll find some fascinating, practical info from the RHS, on the plants that butterflies, bees and hoverflies absolutely love.

And the RSPB offers some excellent advice on feeding garden birds, especially important in the coming months while they're breeding and raising their chicks.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust honours "wildlife heroes" across the county. In the last round of awards, FoPR were Highly Commended "for transforming their local urban park into a haven for wildlife. Work includes creating a wildflower meadow, planting native hedges and trees, installing bat and bird boxes, building bug hotels, and managing habitats for hedgehogs, stag beetles, and other species. They have also engaged the local community through educational displays, children’s events, and monthly Nature Notes, encouraging residents to appreciate and protect urban wildlife." Follow the link above for other truly inspiring stories, including those of some brilliant young citizen scientists.

The very great majority of human and canine visitors to the Rec come for enjoyment and relaxation. The dedicated dog-walking area is popular with four-legged friends and their owners. Meanwhile families with small children appreciate the dog-free zones - something that's not available in most other green spaces across the City.

However, if you are aware of any instances of damaged equipment, anti-social behaviour or fly-tipping, we have contact details for the relevant authorities here. And for everyone's sake, please remember to bag-it and bin-it after your dog has done big business.... . Thank you for your support.

Looking for Agendas and Minutes of past and future meetings? They are here. And to find out about becoming a Friend, please follow this link.

Our video gives an overview of Portswood Rec and our group:

We're also on social media:

Friends of Portswood Rec, Southampton, UK