Van Hire Southsea

Southsea is situated on the southern tip of Portsmouth. It is not just a place of scenic beauty but also a hub of essential services. From expansive parking facilities to reliable petrol stations and a variety of shops, Southsea ensures van users are well-equipped for every journey.

Getting Around Southsea

Navigating Southsea is straightforward thanks to excellent road connectivity. Major routes such as the A3, A2030 and A288 run through the town, linking it seamlessly to Portsmouth and beyond. The nearby M275 provides quick access to the M27, opening up routes to locations like Lee On Solent. Drivers can also travel effortlessly to Portsmouth, making Southsea a convenient base for both local and long-distance journeys.

Van Parking Options

Southsea offers a wide variety of parking facilities to accommodate van drivers, whether you’re stopping for a quick errand or parking for the day. The Seafront The Esplanade Car Park on The Esplanade is open 24 hours, making it an excellent choice for those visiting the seafront. Similarly, the Seafront Canoe Lake Car Park, located on St. Helen’s Parade, provides round-the-clock access and is ideal for those exploring nearby attractions.

For those heading to Southsea Common, the Southsea Common Car Park on Clarence Parade is a convenient option with ample space. If you’re in the central area, the Eldon Car Park on Eldon Street and Ashby Place Car Park at 1 Ashby Place offer reliable choices. Both are well-situated for accessing shops and local amenities.

Visitors to Clarence Esplanade will find multiple options, including the D-Day Museum Car Park and Pyramids Car Park – Ring Go. These facilities not only provide parking but are also near key attractions. The Bransbury Park Car Park on Bransbury Road offers a quieter location for those looking for less congestion.

For those travelling by train or needing access to the station, the Portsmouth & Southsea Station Car Park on Station Street is an ideal pick. If you’re exploring Clarence Pier, the Clarence Pier Car Park offers proximity and convenience. Lastly, the Fort Cumberland Car Park, located on Fort Cumberland Road, is a free option, perfect for those on a budget.

Petrol Stations And Vehicle Services

Southsea offers a wide range of petrol stations and vehicle services to ensure your van is always ready for the road. For 24-hour refuelling, Shell on Goldsmith Avenue is a convenient choice, combining fuel services with a coffee shop and convenience store. Another round-the-clock option is Esso on Milton Road, which offers clean facilities and friendly staff.

For those looking for extended hours, the Tesco Petrol Station on Fratton Way operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM on most days, making it an excellent stop for groceries and fuel in one go. Asda Petrol Station at The Bridge Shopping Centre also provides a reliable service, opening from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and slightly later on weekends.

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, the Green Road Service Centre on St. Paul’s Road offers comprehensive repairs, MOTs and excellent customer service. It operates from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays, ensuring your vehicle stays in top condition. For a quick car wash, Waves Hand Car Wash at Fratton Park is known for its friendly staff and sparkling results, with operating hours from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM and reduced hours on Sundays.

Other options include the Fratton Car Wash on Trafalgar Place, open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily and Aqua Car Wash, which runs from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on most days. For more specialised detailing services, Milan’s Detailing & Valeting on Fratton Road offers exceptional quality and operates from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the week.

Hardware Stores, Garden Centres And Storage Facilities

For hardware and DIY supplies, B&Q Portsmouth, located at The Pompey Centre, is a top choice. With its extensive inventory, including bathroom and kitchen designs, it is open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and shorter hours on Sundays. Toolstation Portsmouth, also on Rodney Road, provides high-quality tools and materials with friendly service. It operates from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays, closing earlier on weekends.

If you’re looking for garden supplies or unique home goods, Waterfront Garden Centre on Southsea’s Esplanade is renowned for its fresh plant selection and helpful staff. Open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, it’s a delightful stop for gardeners. For a broader selection, B&M Home Store with Garden Centre at Ocean Retail Park combines gardening products with everyday household items. Open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, it’s ideal for late-hour visits.

Southsea’s excellent connectivity also allows quick trips to nearby places like Fareham. Similarly, visitors looking to explore Hayling Island will appreciate its easy accessibility from Southsea.

For storage, Safestore Self Storage at The Pompey Centre is a popular choice for secure and accessible storage, open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, with reduced hours on weekends. Similarly, Big Yellow Self Storage Portsmouth on Rodney Road provides a wide range of unit sizes and excellent customer service, operating from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM during weekdays and slightly shorter hours on weekends.

Another excellent facility is Access Self Storage Portsmouth on Herbert Street, offering competitive prices and friendly staff, with opening hours from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and shorter hours on weekends. Shurgard Self Storage Portsmouth on Rudmore Square is another reliable facility, open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, extending to 8:00 PM on certain days.

Drive-Thru, Restaurants, Shops And More

For those who love drive-thru dining, McDonald’s at The Pompey Centre on Fratton Way stands out for its quick service and hot meals, operating from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM. Nearby, KFC serves up its iconic fried chicken with a drive-thru open until 10:00 PM daily.

For coffee enthusiasts, Bay Coffee on Burgoyne Road offers an exceptional drive-thru experience with high-quality coffee and a cosy atmosphere, open from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Dining enthusiasts will enjoy The Garden Southsea on Florence Road, which provides a vibrant atmosphere, attentive staff and a delightful menu, open until 11:00 PM most days.

For grocery needs, Waitrose & Partners on Marmion Road offers premium groceries with easy parking access, operating from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. If you’re venturing towards Havant or Waterlooville, you’ll find similar conveniences nearby.

For a quick grocery run, Tesco Express on Elm Grove is a reliable choice, open until midnight daily. Similarly, Iceland Supermarket Southsea on Palmerston Road is perfect for frozen goods and essentials, with hours from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

For those looking to explore scenic surroundings, the charming town of Emsworth is within easy reach, offering a tranquil escape. Alternatively, the historic maritime town of Gosport provides a unique coastal experience with fascinating attractions and beautiful waterfront views.