The newly completed pedestrianisation works on Castle Road are already beginning to change the atmosphere of the area, creating a safer and more relaxed environment for outdoor dining and socialising in Southsea.
With no vehicles moving through the road anymore, visitors can now sit outside with far more comfort, whether that is enjoying a coffee during the day or cocktails in the evening, until having to move inside at 9pm. This is a noticeable and positive change for one of Southsea’s most popular independent shopping and dining areas, and it feels particularly well suited to the warmer summer months.
One venue fully embracing the new surroundings is Delaneys, the long established family-run bistro located at 77b Castle Road. Known locally for its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming service, Delaneys has become a neighbourhood favourite over the past 19 years, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, evening dining and Sunday roasts. The venue now makes excellent use of the newly pedestrianised space outside, with a handful of outdoor tables that catch the evening sun and create a much more open and sociable feel along the street.
Delaneys evening offering continues to grow, with a dedicated evening menu available Wednesday to Saturday, alongside a full cocktail menu and regular Happy Hour promotions running from 5.30pm until 8pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
The venue has always had a strong reputation for creating a comfortable and welcoming environment, whether you are visiting for a morning coffee, a relaxed brunch or cocktails later into the evening. Upstairs seating is also available for private events and gatherings.
The pedestrianisation itself feels like a positive step forward for Castle Road and highlights how important having the option to dine outside can be for independent businesses. The street now feels calmer, safer and more suited to outdoor hospitality, particularly during the summer season when Southsea’s food and drink scene is at its busiest.
It also raises an interesting question about what other areas of Southsea could potentially look like with similar improvements in the future. Albert Road? Elm Grove?
Delaneys, 77b Castle Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3AY.
Opening hours:
Monday to Tuesday: 9.30am to 4pm
Wednesday to Saturday: 9.30am to 11pm
Sunday: 9.30am to 6pm
