Gunwharf Quays - Portsmouth's answer to Bicester Village

Shopping is Mrs CJ's passion - some may say her religion, so when she has the opportunity to worship in a large cathedral type complex like this one, I can say goodbye to her for a few hours and go off to do something more constructive.
Gunwharf Quays is a shopping centre situated near the historic dockyard and the new Spinnaker Tower which is a stunning landmark. By night it is illuminated and stand out like a beacon, visible from miles around. Back in 2003, we sailed past the partially completed tower on our way across the channel to Ouistreham on the MV Mont St Michel with the marina front development still under construction. This is an exciting addition to Portsmouth, which is an ideal weekend destination and gateway to Brittany and Normandy. Last week we spent an afternoon here wandering around the various shops. It is very much like Bicester Village, another favourite location for Mrs. CJ to spend her hard earned cash in maintaining her high profile. There are a number of our favourite shops here, Timberland (for me), Hobbs, Crew Clothing, White Stuff with other outlets featured. Download the pdf guide here.

In addition there are extensive dining and drinking facilities.

My assessment - Great weekend location, it has it all, shops, hotels, restaurants and bars.

My verdict - Drive for a few hours, plonk the car down in the car park, shop until you drop, take things back to your hotel room, freshen up, then hit the quays for the night life without thinking of having to drive. Look up at the tower and go wahhhh.

Bonus - There's a Brasserie Blanc on the way opening soon, it'll be open by the time we go back. this could be a regular haunt for the CJ's. Can be dangerous for the bank balance.