If you like nothing more than a weekend getaway with a healthy dose of retail therapy, Portsmouth could be the perfect place for your next trip. Along with being packed full of exciting history, this port city boasts an impressive selection of shopping centres and commercial areas to suit any kind of shopper. Read our handy guide below to find out more about the best spots for shopping in Portsmouth – and how you can get to them.
Shopping centres in Portsmouth
Cascades Shopping Centre
At the heart of the port city, you’ll find Cascades Shopping Centre, complete with an eclectic mix of almost 60 stores to browse. Whether you’re looking to hide away from the rain for the afternoon or you’ve got something specific in mind, Cascades offers something for everyone.
Alongside a Primark, H&M, Next and Sports Direct, Cascades Shopping Centre also boasts a Starbucks coffee shop, perfect for topping up your energy after spending some time in the shops. If you check what’s on before you go, you can even enjoy special offers and events here, too.
Portsmouth Gunwharf Quays shops
If you’re looking for a touch of luxury or late-night shopping in Portsmouth, it’s worth heading to Gunwharf Quays. With some of its designer stores open until 8pm on selected days of the week, it’s always worth checking the latest opening times before you shop.
Home to over 90 well-known brands, it’s one of the biggest shopping outlets in the region and helps shoppers to save up to 60% on the biggest names in the industry. At Gunwharf Quays, you’re guaranteed to find the best outlet shops in Portsmouth. Furthermore, this outlet village is just steps away from Portsmouth Harbour train station, making it the most easily accessible shopping centre in Portsmouth.
From Armani to Polo Ralph Lauren and from L’Occitane to The White Company, you’ll be sure to find exactly for what you’re looking. If you’re feeling hungry after a few hours of retail therapy, you’ll also be spoilt for choice at Gunwharf Quays. Whether it’s a refreshing tipple at The Alchemist to a hearty brunch at The Cosy Club, you won’t have to go far to feel satisfied.
The best independent shops in Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a lively shopping location for all of your favourite high-street stores but nothing helps you to celebrate the local community more than supporting independent businesses. We recommend visiting:
Southsea Bathing Hut
If you’re passionate about natural, cruelty-free skincare, Southsea Bathing Hut is definitely worth a visit when in Portsmouth. Celebrating the city’s legacy of soap-making and sea-bathing, this independent, woman-owned business focuses on natural, botanical skincare for all skin types. Of all the independent shops in Portsmouth, this might be one of the most authentic, transparent and sustainable.
Dress Code
If you like discovering quirky, unique pieces, you can find quality vintage clothing at Dress Code. Furthermore, this independent store also stocks an impressive selection of albums, EPs and singles on vinyl. Whether you’re looking to add a new favourite to your record collection or finish a trendy outfit, Dress Code could be the independent for you.
The Portsmouth Distillery
Based inside the historic Fort Cumberland, this award-winning distillery produces local gin and rum plus a selection of merchandise. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or the chance to see the heart of the action inside the distillery, you can visit the shop or book a tour online to discover more.
Getting to Portsmouth for your shopping trip
If you’re tempted to head to the best shops in Portsmouth to complete your wardrobe for this season, don’t put it off. Book train tickets to Portsmouth today to guarantee a smooth, comfortable and relaxing journey, away from the hustle and bustle of the roads and without a single concern for parking.