the waterfront city
visitportsmouth.co.uk
Portsmouth is a great choice as a
Portsmouth is a hotspot for visual
shopping destination, with independent
and performing arts. With live
stores and all the big names you’d expect
performances from theatre to comedy
to find in a city. Each shopping district in
and thought-provoking fine art from the
the city offers something a little different
contemporary to the classic.
and all are within easy reach of one
There’s always something new to see.
another for some serious retail therapy.
The city is home to two striking theatres, both worked on by
To find high-street style, head to our City Centre. Commercial
architect Frank Matcham. The New Theatre Royal is host to cutting-
Road and Cascades are home to big names such as Topshop, H&M,
edge dance, theatre, drama, music and comedy whilst The Kings
Debenhams, River Island and Next. From Thursday to Saturday
Theatre has a mix of professional and amateur shows along with
you’ll also find a traditional street market dating back centuries.
variety shows and touring West End productions. Portsmouth is
Pick up your 5-a-day fruit and veg, snap up a designer-inspired
also home to independent cinemas showing world film and new
handbag or find some great toys for the kids. When you need time
releases together with cult and classic movies. What better place
out to review your purchases, head to nearby Victoria Park for a
to find real drama than on the football pitch? Head to Fratton Park
picnic and some rest.
to catch the 2008 FA Cup Winners in action and some of the most
passionate fans in the league.
Southsea town centre has its own unique flavour and is perfect for
those craving a touch of individuality. Palmerston Road is home to
Get your dose of live music at the legendary Wedgewood Rooms
department stores and high-street favourites on a smaller scale,
in Southsea or check out Portsmouth Guildhall, the city’s largest
along with regular Farmer’s Markets. In nearby Marmion Road you’ll
concert venue. From festival warm-ups to touring established acts,
find chocolate, inspirational furnishings, stunning shoes and award-
you’ll be spoilt for choice.
winning diamonds, all in one place. Head to Albert Road for vintage
Don’t miss aspex, Portsmouth’s leading contemporary art gallery,
delights, antiques, edgy clothing and collectables. The street is
for your chance to take in the cultural greats of tomorrow. Immerse
buzzing all day and night, with quirky cafés and bars.
yourself in contemporary visual art with exhibitions, workshops and
At Gunwharf Quays you’ll find designer outlet shopping on the
events. If fine art is your thing, then head to the City Museum &
waterfront, a shopper’s heaven! With more than 95 designer outlets
Records Office where you’ll find a wide range of material from the
and up to 70% off usual store prices, you can look chic for less.
17th century to the present day.
Gunwharf Quays is also home to regular gift fairs and French and
Whilst visiting the city centre, make time to walk through Guildhall
Italian markets, so along with the shop at aspex gallery, you’ll never
Square. Not only will you find the beautiful Portsmouth Guildhall,
be stuck for an unusual gift. When you need a break from all that
but now also the Big Screen. Portsmouth was one of eight cities
shopping there are 30 cosmopolitan bars and restaurants to choose
chosen to host a Big Screen by the London Organising Committee
from, or a trip up the Spinnaker Tower might be just the refresher
of the Olympic & Paralympic Games (LOCOG). The Big Screen
you need.
currently shows a range of local information including a diary of
upcoming events and locally produced films.
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