Looking for top clubs in Portsmouth? Have you ever experienced seaside nightlife? This laid-back coastal city offers a variety of nightlife experiences to cater to every party-goer. Whether you prefer dance clubs to dance the night away or cozy bars to sip great drinks and meet new people, Portsmouth’s nightclubs have something for everyone. With a mix of vibrant environments, musical styles, and top-quality beverages, you can unwind, socialise, and immerse yourself in the lively night scene in between your busy studies or work.
Top Clubs in Portsmouth
Popworld
- 1 King Henry I St, Portsmouth PO1 2PT
Imagine stepping into a dance floor shimmering with lights, with nostalgic beats from the ’80s and ’90s filling your ears, transporting you back to an era brimming with passion and freedom. This is the main vibe in Popworld, one of the best Portsmouth nightclubs. Popworld hosts regular themed nights and special events like Fridaylicious, Delight Alt Night, Halloween Club Night, and Singo Bingo, allowing you and your new friends to create unforgettable memories. Friendly staff and fast service at Popworld ensure that you can fully enjoy every moment, with signature drinks and cocktails elevating every moment of fun with affordable prices.
MoonShine Nightclub
- 109 S Front St, Fremont, OH 43420, United States
Located near Southsea Pier, MoonShine Nightclub is one of the liveliest night clubs in Portsmouth’s bustling bar district, always buzzing with an electrifying atmosphere. Since the 1980s, this iconic club has been drawing night owls in with its amazing music genres and DJ sets. Whether the high-energy beats of soca, indie vibes, pop hits, or electronic dance music, MoonShine delivers an unforgettable dance experience. The club regularly hosts themed nights like Desi Nights, trance parties, and student events such as the Zoo Theme Special and a UV Freshers party, injecting fresh energy into every visit. Outside MoonShine Nightclub is a charming urban-themed garden area that’s especially captivating on summer nights. This space regularly hosts unique events and showcases local music artists. With every detail, MoonShine Nightclub presents the ultimate Portsmouth nightlife destination, making it the perfect nightclub for dancing the night away.
Tokyo Joe’s
- 29-33 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth PO1 2RY
For people who love the nightlife, this Asian-themed nightclub in Portsmouth has become an iconic landmark. The atmosphere is always vibrant, with the dance floor constantly packed, where people let loose. One of Tokyo Joe’s iconic elements is the creative Beer Pong tables and Noodle Box cocktails. The weekly envent list is as dynamic as it gets: Monday’s Beer Pong Night is one of the most popular events that draws countless students; Thursday is dedicated to 80s/90s Music Night, with nostalgic tunes taking people back to the beautiuful times; Saturday’s DJ Party Night keeps the place rocking all night long; while Sunday offers urban classics and current tracks, with soothing melodies that calm every tired soul. The club in Portsmouth also boasts a cozy garden, which is a favorite hangout spot for customers to chat and unwind, with staff always warm and friendly. With every work, Tokyo Joe’s is one of the best bars in Portsmouth, where you can leave all your stress behind and fully immerse yourself in the unique charm of the city.
Hampshire Boulevard
- St Pauls Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth PO1 2QN
Nestled in the heart of the city, this upscale LGBTQ-friendly nightclub in Portsmouth has become a true sanctuary for anyone looking to express themselves and have fun, with a chic and inclusive atmosphere in every corner. The club in Portsmouth offers a range of freshly brewed drinks, soft beverages, and signature cocktails with enticing discounts. With drag shows that light up the stage with color, glamour, and sass, this amazing bar in Portsmouth leaves the crowd in awe. Disco beats thump in the background, fueling the energy of the room. At 9 PM, the karaoke sessions begin, drawing in both amateur and seasoned performers. Special themed nights make the heartbeat of this one of the best Portsmouth clubs, including Wednesday’s “Wurk It” event, the “Big Gay Weekender” on Fridays and Saturdays. And the most anticipated event is the Official UK Pride After Party, which takes the night to a whole new level with multiple DJ sets, special effects, and a crowd that dances until dawn.
The Astoria
- 37-39 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth PO1 2RY
The Astoria is one of the rare cozy clubs in Portsmouth, UK, offering a warm and energetic atmosphere that brings dancers closer to enjoy the passion of the night together. With a diverse range of music styles, from drum and bass, electronic music, and dance tracks to pop and disco hits, you can find your own musical space for your perfect Portsmouth nightlife. If you want to take a break from the excitement, you can head to the refreshing balcony for a moment of relaxation, overlooking the lively dance floor below while sipping on a drink, or find your private retreat in the top-tier VIP packages. Every week, themed events add surprise and energy to each night. Holding the alternative-themed “Delight” on Mondays, the “Dirty Disco” party on Tuesdays, the student night “Concrete” on Thursdays, the main event “The Eskimo Project” on Fridays, to the charming and wild “Oh La La” party on Saturdays, it certainly belongs to one of the top night clubs in Portsmouth, offering a place for both students and locals to find fun and relaxation.
LOL Comedy Club
- Guildhall, Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth PO1 2AB
Portsmouth nightlife isn’t just about bars and dance clubs—LOL Comedy Club is also the perfect place for a fun night out, featuring the finest emerging stand-up comedians. It is held at the Portsmouth Guildhall, adding a touch of laughter to the city’s most serious setting. What’s worth mentioning is that comedians, including Jason Manford, John Bishop, and Sarah Millican, performed here before they became household names. Additionally, LOL Comedy Club is also one of the places to drink in Portsmouth, offering full bar service so you can enjoy a little buzz while enjoying your fun.
Scarlet Tap
- 80-82 Palmerston Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 3PT
If you are a sports fan looking for places to drink in Portsmouth, Scarlet Tap is undoubtedly an ideal choice. This bar and restaurant offers HD screens showing live Sky and BT Sports events as well as great drinks and food. With a variety of craft beers, quality wines, creative cocktails, and a tempting menu, which features delicious dishes like burgers, stone-baked pizzas, and sharing platters, Scarlet Tap is one of the top restaurants and bars in Portsmouth to go. Plus, you can order and pay directly from your table through a provided link, eliminating the long queue. Scarlet Tap provides the perfect setting for a relaxed evening, whether you’re gathering with friends or enjoying a leisurely dinner. On weekends, the bar hosts bottomless brunches for you to get the best deal in town!
Sip & Solve
- 7-9 Marketway, Portsmouth PO1 4BX
Looking for unique clubs in Portsmouth for a night full of challenges and fun? The Puzzle Bar is a place you don’t want to miss! The bar combines escape room-style games with creative cocktails, making it the only bar in Portsmouth that mixes intellectual challenges with drinking. The bar’s “Puzzle Pods” offer thrilling 15 to 30-minute games, each room filled with complex and intriguing puzzles just waiting for you to solve. If you’re working with friends or a larger group, the bar has a few options: a private pod or reserve the whole place for special events or group gatherings. During the games, you can enjoy signature cocktails inspired by O’Donnells Moonshine, making the experience even more memorable. Bring your friends or embark on a unique adventure to meet new ones here!
The Brewery Tap
- 17 London Rd, North End, Portsmouth PO2 0BQ
Southsea Brewing Bar is among the best bars in Portsmouth to enjoy craft beverages in a cozy atmosphere on a night out. The bar offers a wide variety of craft beers, including Southsea Brewing Co.’s creations, unique brews from guest brewers, ciders, wines, and spirits—perfect for anyone looking to try something new. There is also a selection of bar snacks that’ll complement your drinks. With fun activities like board games, this nightclub in Portsmouth keeps the good times rolling for your night out.
The Lawrence Arms
- 63 Lawrence Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 1NU
The Lawrence Arms is a nightclub in Portsmouth that fosters a strong sense of community with a welcoming atmosphere and craft beers, ales, and ciders, as well as mouthwatering food like deliciously melty grilled sandwiches and indulgent Sunday roasts. Its beer garden is a perfect spot to soak up the sun while sipping your favorite drink with friends and family. The time you spent here never gets boring. Whether you’re aiming for a friendly competition on the traditional pool table or testing your knowledge at a lively quiz night, the fun never stops. Plus, with exciting meat raffles and a variety of weekly events, The Lawrence Arms is always buzzing with energy, laughter, and surprises!
Best Areas for Finding Clubs in Portsmouth
The places to drink in Portsmouth for exciting nights out are not limited to what has been introduced above; there is an ocean of the best bars and nightclubs worth exploring, which are mostly located in Guildhall Walk, Gunwharf Quays, and Southsea. Guildhall Walk represents the most vibrant Portsmouth nightlife, filled with night clubs and serene bars. Gunwharf Quays is a coastal hotspot, combining shopping, dining, and nightlife with nightclubs and bars in Portsmouth near the sea. This versatile area offers a more comprehensive nightlife experience. When it comes to a more relaxed experience, Southsea stands out with its laid-back seaside atmosphere, home to a variety of bars, clubs, cafes, and live music venues.
With their unique features and nightlife charm, these areas are hubs for young people, especially for students, due to their proximity to the University of Portsmouth. If you are a student looking for a home where you can fully embrace the city’s best nightlife, we offer student accommodation in Portsmouth in or near these areas, putting you in the heart of Portsmouth’s nightlife as well as academic life. So, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information!
Conclusion
Portsmouth’s nightclubs bring energy, exhilaration, and unique coastal charm. If you’re looking to stay energetic until dawn, dance clubs in Portsmouth like Moonshine Nightclub, Hampshire Boulevard, and Popworld are the perfect fits. For a more relaxed vibe, The Astoria, Sip & Solve, and The Brewery Tap are excellent bars in Portsmouth that offer excellent drinks and cosy environments. Popworld and Tokyo Joe’s are sure to deliver a nostalgic throwback, while Scarlet Tap and The Lawrence Arms provide a mix of high-energy clubbing and stylish settings. Of course, a random exploration of clubs in Portsmouth carries unexpected fun. You can always head to popular areas like Gunwharf Quays, Guildhall Walk, and Southsea, where the city’s best nightclubs and bars are located, making Portsmouth’s fun and excitement never come to an end.
FAQ
Does Portsmouth have a nightlife?
Portsmouth boasts a vibrant nightlife, offering a range of bars, pubs, nightclubs, and live music venues. Popular venues include The Astoria, PRYZM, and Popworld, among others. To experience the best nightlife in Portsmouth, Gunwharf Quays (waterfront views), Guildhall Walk, and Southsea offer the best experiences.
Where to meet singles in Portsmouth?
Portsmouth offers plenty of opportunities to meet singles, both online and offline. Portsmouth’s nightlife scene provides a perfect solution, with clubs like Hampshire Boulevard, Moonshine Nightclub, and Popworld creating a lively atmosphere. Alternatively, if you prefer online options, consider local apps like Tinder, eHarmony, and Plenty of Fish, as well as social sites such as Meetup, Portsmouth HIVE, or Sporting Activities.
Is Portsmouth LGBT friendly?
As an inclusive city, Portsmouth is considered LGBT friendly, and it is home to a vibrant and active LGBTQ+ community. For example, Portsmouth Pride organises an annual free Pride event and year-round community activities to foster a sense of belonging. Many of Portsmouth’s clubs and bars, such as House of Martha and Hampshire Boulevard, are LGBT friendly.
How many pubs are in Portsmouth?
Portsmouth has approximately 150 pubs. The densest number of pubs and bars in Portsmouth is in areas like Gunwharf Quays, Guildhall Walk, and Southsea.
Where do away fans drink in Portsmouth?
The Good Companion, at 2 Eastern Road, Fratton, PO3 6ES, is the official away club in Portsmouth where away fans gather and drink. It offers a convenient location, only a 10-minute walk from Fratton Park. The Connaught Arms and Milton Arms are also away fans’ options.
