Portsmouth’s character, shaped by centuries of maritime history and its role as a naval city, is visible in its venues. The buildings often repurpose structures that once served the port, its people, or the fleet. You can find traditional pubs with foundations dating back to the age of sail, brick warehouses now home to independent businesses, and civic buildings reimagined for new purposes, all contributing to a distinct atmosphere. Consider the area around the Historic Dockyard, where structures once integral to naval operations now house the National Museum of the Royal Navy and HMS Victory, or explore the repurposed buildings of Gunwharf Quays.
This directory reflects the city’s diverse offerings, from the community establishments in areas like Cosham, providing local services, to the spots around Fratton, where the city’s working heritage blends with modern life. Landport, primarily residential, also offers local amenities. Eastney offers venues that hint at Portsmouth’s coastal aspect, with views of the Solent. The Victorian Seafront provides a backdrop to several establishments, and its proximity to Southsea Castle influences local venues. Each listing gives you a picture of local amenities and gathering spaces across the city’s distinct areas.
Portsmouth’s calendar is marked by events that animate these spaces. The Portsmouth International Kite Festival and the Victorious Festival both draw crowds to Southsea Common, while events at the Historic Dockyard, like the Victorian Festival of Christmas and Action Stations, bring history to life. Commemorations such as the D-Day Anniversary and the Battle of Trafalgar Commemoration reinforce the city’s naval identity, and the Portsmouth International Festival of the Sea showcases its maritime heritage. These gatherings, alongside regular Portsmouth Markets, contribute to the lively atmosphere and offer opportunities to experience the community spirit. You may also find yourself drawn to evening activities, with bars and music venues.
Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.
Fitness & Outdoors
Catalan BarcelonaCatalan Barcelona is a restaurant on Castle Road, adding to Portsmouth’s dining options. It’s known for authentic Spanish tapas and a relaxed atmosphere. Locals and visitors go to Catalan Barcelona for casual lunches, evening meals, and drinks with friends.
View Info →Coffee Roastery
Broadway Coffee Roasters Ltd.Broadway Coffee Roasters Ltd. is a specialty coffee roastery on Highland Road in Portsmouth, offering a unique atmosphere. The location adds a creative energy to the Southsea area.
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Panero Lounge Cafe BarPanero Lounge Cafe Bar is a cafe bar on Palmerston Road in Portsmouth’s Southsea area. You can find a relaxed atmosphere typical of this part of the city. It’s known for its mezze bowls and broad menu.
View Info →Chinese Restaurant
New Kung Fu WokNew Kung Fu Wok is a Chinese and Japanese fusion restaurant on Rowner Road in Gosport. The area is known for its local community and convenient access to amenities. It’s particularly known for its Japanese Udon in Black Pepper Sauce, a popular dish.
View Info →Restaurant
Cosy ClubCosy Club Portsmouth is a restaurant in Portsmouth’s Gunwharf Quays, a waterfront area with modern leisure and dining. It’s known for its cocktails and harbour views, offering a relaxed atmosphere. Locals and visitors enjoy it throughout the day for a quick bite or a longer gathering.
View Info →Brunch Restaurant
Southsea Brunch KlubSouthsea Brunch Klub is a brunch restaurant on Elm Grove in Southsea. You can find a lively atmosphere that Portsmouth residents enjoy for a relaxed and social setting. It’s known for its bottomless brunch and themed event nights, especially on Saturdays.
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Coffee Roastery
Broadway Coffee Roasters Ltd.Broadway Coffee Roasters Ltd.
View Info →Cafe Bar
Panero Lounge Cafe BarPanero Lounge Cafe Bar is a cafe bar on Palmerston Road in Portsmouth’s Southsea area.
View Info →Chinese Restaurant
New Kung Fu WokNew Kung Fu Wok is a Chinese and Japanese fusion restaurant on Rowner Road in Gosport.
View Info →Restaurant
Cosy ClubCosy Club Portsmouth is a restaurant in Portsmouth’s Gunwharf Quays, a waterfront area with modern leisure and dining.
View Info →Brunch Restaurant
Southsea Brunch KlubSouthsea Brunch Klub is a brunch restaurant on Elm Grove in Southsea.
View Info →Restaurant
Giggling SquidGiggling Squid is a Thai restaurant on Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth.
View Info →239 total places
Pub And Restaurant
The Old Customs HouseThe Old Customs House is a pub and restaurant on Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth.
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The DockyardThe Dockyard is a bar on Guildhall Walk in Portsmouth.
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The Guildhall VillageThe Guildhall Village is a pub on Guildhall Walk in Portsmouth.
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The Golden EagleThe Golden Eagle is a pub on Delamere Road in Southsea.
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The Golden LionThe Golden Lion is a traditional English pub on High Street in Fareham, Portsmouth.
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The ChurchillianThe Churchillian is a traditional public house on Portsdown Hill Road in Portsmouth.
View Info →73 total places
Catalan Barcelona is a restaurant on Castle Road, adding to Portsmouth’s dining options.
View Info →Fitness Centre
Anytime FitnessAnytime Fitness Portsmouth is a fitness centre on Stoke Road in Southsea.
View Info →T & Thistle is a cafe on Guildhall Walk in Portsmouth.
View Info →Fitness And Martial Arts Facility
Gym 01Gym 01 Fitness & Martial Arts is a fitness and martial arts facility in Portsmouth.
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247 Fitness247 Fitness is a gym on Down End Road in Portsmouth’s Pompey Centre.
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