Living in Portsmouth

Whether you're looking for a seafront flat, a Victorian terrace, or a family-friendly suburban home, Portsmouth has something to suit every lifestyle. At Cubitt & West, we can help you find your ideal property in Portsmouth, whether buying, investing, or renting. We can guide you through a smooth, stress-free move to this dynamic city.

Where is Portsmouth?

Portsmouth is located on the south coast of Hampshire, directly facing the Solent and the Isle of Wight. The city is well-connected by road via the M27 and A3, providing convenient access to Southampton, Chichester, and London. Portsmouth also benefits from excellent rail links, with direct train services to London Waterloo, Southampton, Brighton, and beyond.

Portsmouth International Port offers ferry connections to France and Spain, while nearby Southampton Airport provides additional travel options, making Portsmouth an ideal base for both commuting and travel.

Is Portsmouth a Nice Place to Live?

Portsmouth combines the charm of a historic coastal town with the energy of a modern city. It’s known for its rich naval history, iconic landmarks such as the Spinnaker Tower, and bustling waterfront areas like Gunwharf Quays.

Living in Portsmouth means enjoying the best of coastal life, think sea views, vibrant high streets, a thriving arts scene, and plenty of green spaces. The city has seen significant investment and regeneration in recent years, improving public spaces, leisure facilities, and housing. It’s a friendly and diverse place to live, with a strong community spirit and plenty of local pride.

Primary and Secondary Schools in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is home to a wide range of good schools, making it an appealing choice for families. Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ primary schools such as St Jude’s CofE and Meon Infant School offer excellent options for younger children.

For secondary education, schools like Portsmouth Grammar School and Springfield School are well-regarded. The city is also home to The University of Portsmouth, a highly respected institution offering a wide range of courses and contributing to the city’s youthful, vibrant feel.

Shopping in Portsmouth

Portsmouth boasts an excellent mix of retail options, from high-end fashion to independent boutiques. Gunwharf Quays is a popular shopping destination, offering over 90 designer outlet stores alongside restaurants, bars, and a cinema. The city centre and Commercial Road provide high street favourites, while Southsea offers a more eclectic mix of independent shops, cafes, and vintage stores.

Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Lidl, and Asda are readily available across the city, making everyday shopping convenient for residents in all areas.

Travel Links in Portsmouth

Portsmouth enjoys outstanding transport connectivity, whether you’re heading into the capital or exploring the South Coast. Regular direct train services run to London Waterloo (approx. 1hr 30min), Brighton, Southampton, and Guildford.
For drivers, the M27 and A3 connect the city efficiently to Hampshire and Surrey, while local bus routes provide excellent coverage across Portsmouth, Southsea, and surrounding areas. Portsmouth also has a park and ride service, making commuting into the city centre straightforward.

The city is well-placed for international travel too, with ferry services to France and the Channel Islands departing regularly from Portsmouth International Port.

Is Portsmouth Safe?

Portsmouth is considered a generally safe and welcoming place to live. As with any urban area, some neighbourhoods are busier than others, but local policing, CCTV, and community initiatives help keep the city secure.

Popular residential areas such as Southsea, Eastney, and Drayton are known for their strong sense of community and family-friendly environments. With its active neighbourhood watch groups and well-maintained public spaces, Portsmouth fosters a reassuring sense of security and community for residents.

Restaurants in Portsmouth

Portsmouth’s food scene is as diverse as its population, with a wide range of restaurants, pubs, and cafes to suit all tastes and budgets. Gunwharf Quays offers well-known chains with waterfront views, whilst Southsea is home to a thriving independent dining scene.

You’ll find everything from seafood restaurants and traditional pubs to Indian, Thai, Italian, and vegan eateries. Highlights include Abarbistro, The Briny, and Restaurant 27, along with countless cosy spots for Sunday roasts, afternoon teas, and cocktails.

Things to Do in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is packed with things to see and do. The Historic Dockyard is a must-visit, home to HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, while the Spinnaker Tower offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline.

Outdoor lovers can enjoy Southsea Common, beaches, and seafront walks, while sports fans can support Portsmouth FC at Fratton Park. The city has a rich cultural scene too, with music venues, galleries, and annual festivals.

Families will appreciate attractions such as Blue Reef Aquarium, Canoe Lake, and Clarence Pier, while the Kings Theatre and New Theatre Royal offer regular performances. With beaches, parks, shopping, history, and entertainment all within easy reach, Portsmouth is a city that truly has something for everyone.