Stretching along the sea is one of Portsmouth's coolest areas, with plenty of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants as well as a contemporary art gallery.
Beneath the shadow of the famous Spinnaker Tower is the stylish shopping and leisure centre of Gunwharf Quays, where you can easily spend a day browsing the many shops and enjoying the entertainment. The site's history as an ordnance yard is marked only by the cannons that line the waterfront. Today, the area is a modern, buzzing destination, popular with both local residents and visitors. Spoil yourself with a day of shopping and eating here.
Check out the more than 90 stores on the wharf, which include some of fashion's biggest names. Hunt for bargains on clothes by Tommy Hilfiger, Jack Wills and Ted Baker. Stock up on quality kitchen essentials at Le Creuset and Cath Kidston. Treat yourself to something fancy from Swarovski. Whatever it is you’re shopping for, you're likely to find it here.
Take a break from shopping in one of the many cafés and restaurants. Choose from familiar fast-food chains, fine Italian cuisine and hearty American food. The Aspex café bar and the Waterfront Café offer laid-back spaces to have coffee and people-watch.
Study cool new art at the Aspex, a contemporary gallery that showcases the best art from emerging artists. The main space displays diverse rotating exhibitions featuring works made using a variety of techniques. Ask about the gallery’s events schedule at the front desk to see what is happening during your stay.
Speed out to sea on a powerboat trip or participate in competitive fun at the 26-lane bowling alley. Watch the latest movies at the centre's multiplex cinema. The casino with a bar and restaurant is a good place to socialize during the evening.
Gunwharf Quays is only a 5-minute walk from Portsmouth Harbour train station and the Hard Bus Interchange. Combine a visit here with a trip to the adjacent Historic Dockyard, another essential Portsmouth destination.
