While Commercial Road gets some flak for its empty units and the stores that have left, there is still a number of shops that attract people into the town. Combine that with the numerous independent shops around Southsea and the high end brands that can be found in Gunwharf, and there is something for everyone.
The high street is of course struggling, not just in Portsmouth but nationally, with the likes of River Island and Poundland facing an uncertain future. The reasons for this are numerous, from online shopping to rising costs. However, people still enjoy visiting a physical shop to buy their goods.
We asked our readers which shops they liked to visit most in Portsmouth and there was one clear winner.
Here is what they said:
21. HMV
HMV's heyday may be seen as gone but the shop in Commercial Road continues to draw in customers including a number of our readers. Photo: iain brown
22. Menkind
The chain retailer offers a broad range of products aimed at men. Its store in Cascades is a favourite of one of our readers. Photo: Joseph Williams
23. JD Sports
The popular sports and fashion clothing chain is the go to shop for a number of our readers. Photo: Dean Atkins
24. Quiz
Quiz is another high street retailer that is struggling with store closures across the country. However the Cascades shop remains open and is a favourite of one of our readers. Photo: NW