Explore Portsmouth charity shops, what you can find and how they can help save money during university
Portsmouth already offers great value for students as a top 10 most affordable UK city for students (Natwest Student Living Index, 2024), and charity shops in Portsmouth make it even easier to make the most of your budget.
Whether it's finding affordable books, sourcing inexpensive household items or locating furniture bargains, knowing where to find affordable essentials can make life much easier. By choosing to study at Portsmouth, you’ll have access to a city that’s affordable and full of smart shopping options.
Charity shop finds: what you can get as a student
Shopping for second-hand items is an excellent way to save money while making sustainable choices. Here are some of the things you can find:
- Clothing – Affordable jackets, jumpers, and branded items.
- Kitchenware – Pots, pans, plates, and utensils in good condition.
- Books – Course books and novels for a fraction of retail prices.
- Furniture – Desks, chairs, and storage units for student accommodation.
Best charity shops in Portsmouth
Uncover our favourite charity shop finds below:
- Sue Ryder Vintage and Retro (Palmerston Road) – Discover a variety of clothing, media, bric-a-brac, and vintage items, including vinyl records, cameras, and other memorabilia, to support individuals at the end of their lives or managing their grief.
- British Heart Foundation (Palmerston Road) – Offering clothing, books, accessories, and homeware at affordable prices.
- Marie Curie (Palmerston Road) – To support individuals with terminal illnesses, Marie Curie offers a variety of items, including clothing, accessories, collectibles, and vintage pieces.
- DEBRA Southsea (Elm Grove) – Explore second-hand fashion, books, homeware, electrical items, and furniture while supporting individuals with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB).
- Sam’s Place (Grove Road South) – Find a range of items, including clothing, furniture, books, and music, with all profits supporting the Portsmouth and East Hampshire branch of Samaritans.
- Rowan's Hospice Shop (Southsea Emporium) (Marmion Road) – Delve into a range of clothing, books, and homeware, with all proceeds going to support hospice care.
- Rainbow Charity Shop (Eastney Road) – Explore a variety of items, including second-hand clothing, household goods, books, and toys. All proceeds support The Rainbow Centre in providing quality education for those with neurological disorders.
“There are lots of independent coffee shops, a great pottery place, and lots of charity shopping on Palmerston Road”.
Liberty Bourke, PGCE Primary
How to save money in university with charity shops
- Set up your student room for less – Discover affordable furniture and essential items at great prices.
- Affordable fashion – Charity shops provide a sustainable and affordable way to refresh your wardrobe. Shopping at these stores also supports local charities, which makes your purchases even more meaningful.
- More money for experiences – Save on essentials so you can fully enjoy student life.
- Support local causes – Every purchase makes a difference and supports charities in their missions to help those in need while keeping costs accessible for all.
Cafes and pubs to enjoy during charity shopping
With many charity shops in Portsmouth and Southsea, why not enjoy a coffee or a drink at one of the local cafes or pubs? Here are some of our favorites:
Palmerston Road
Many of our best charity shops are located near or within Palmerston Road, which features a variety of cafes, pubs, and eateries. If you're in the mood to relax, enjoy a selection of craft beers on tap at Croxtons. For those who prefer coffee and cake, Farm Bakery is a great choice, offering delicious coffee, pastries, and desserts.
If you’ve worked up an appetite, there are plenty of options to satisfy your hunger too. Meat and Barrel serves burgers, wings, and milkshakes, while Sopranos offers a taste of Italy with their pizza and pasta.
Elm Grove
Explore independent Belgian bars and kitchens, such as Huis, as well as Southsea’s Artisan bakery, Bread Addiction, which offers a variety of sweet and savory treats.
For a great selection of beers, visit the Honest Politician, or just off Elm Grove, you can find the Garage Lounge, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee, fluffy pancakes, handmade cakes, and delicious brunch sandwiches.
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