Gosport’s town centre and Stoke Road are buzzing with fresh energy as more than 33 new independent small businesses have opened their doors over the last 12 months, transforming the centre into a vibrant hub of commerce and community.

From beauty and fashion outlets to craft and art studios and eateries, these independents are bringing unique character and choice to Gosport’s shopping experience.

Speaking about the regeneration, Gosport Borough Council Leader, Peter Chegwyn, says: “Independent businesses shape the identity of a high street in an authentic and welcoming way. Their presence supports local employment and creates a strong connection between residents and the community, with local knowledge, they offer unique products and services, as well as a personalised service.

“What is fantastic is that the new energy to the town centre hasn’t been limited to just independents. National chains have also joined the revival, signalling confidence in the Gosport’s town centre’s future.”

In April, Bonmarché introduced its popular fashion range to the town. That same month, Wetherspoons completed a £1 million refurbishment of its Star pub on the High Street. July saw the arrival of a new McDonald’s restaurant, followed in September by the opening of a new pub on the High Street, Erasmus Wolfe.

As 2025 draws to a close, the high street and Stoke Road stands as a testament to what collaboration between small businesses, major retailers, and local authorities can achieve – a bustling, inclusive space that celebrates both individuality and convenience.

Markets also run the high street on Tuesdays between 8am-3pm, and Saturdays between 8am and 4pm.

Independent stores that have opened over 12 months include:

Spud Factory – Baked Potatoes – High Street

The Complete Card Shop trading cards  – High Street

DNA Vintage Pre loved fashion from the 90s and noughties – High Street

Lara Rose Beauty manicures, nail art and permanent jewellery – The Precinct, South Street

ReNu Aesthetics Anti-Wrinkle, Mesotherapy, Vitamin treatments etc – The Precinct, South Street

The Yoga Being yoga and wellbeing – The Precinct, South Street

Studio @ Thirteen Eight  a creative space for artists, makers, and entrepreneurs – Stoke Road

Blake’s cafe hot and cold meals and snacks – High Street

Bernards Estate Agents – High Street

Plan B alternate provision, for children not in education – The Precinct, South Street

Stepping Stones Holistic Health – wellbeing treatments inc massage, reiki – The Precinct, South Street

Keely Berroa Hair Bar creating high quality hair cuts and finishes – The Precinct, South Street

SMD Computers hardware, virus or data issues – High Street

Vape Cloud – Vape juice & products – High Street

Gosport Star Nails – Acrylic, Gel, BIAB, Nail Art – High Street

Charters Estate Agents – High Street

For Bakes Sake – cupcakes – High Street

Phone Repairs – High Street            

Prime Key, Lettings and Management – The Precinct, South Street

20-20 Flooring – supply and fitting of commercial and domestic flooring – The Precinct, South Street

Glam Beauty – Bemisters Lane

Neon Numbers – Accountants and book-keepers – Stoke Road

Gosport Meat and Grocery on North Cross Street

CPB Hair – hair salon – Stoke Road

The Vine – coffee, cakes and light bites – Stoke Road

SPH Surveying – Chartered surveyors – Stoke Road

Port & Lemon – design Studio – Stoke Road

Rich Oakes Art – Art Gallery/Shop/Commissions – Stoke Road

The Tannery & Boutique – Tanning Salon – Stoke Road

SEN Nails Spa and Beauty Lounge – Stoke Road

Flamin Good Crafts – Craft Clubs and Training – Stoke Road

Richmoe Healthcare – specialised homecare – Stoke Road

BEK Sourdough bakery – High Street