Tucked away at 59–61 Castle Road in Southsea (PO5 3AY), Pie & Vinyl has carved out a distinctive niche in the independent-music world. More than just a record shop, it is part retail, part café, and totally rooted in its local community — combining a serious love of vinyl with a hearty love of pies.
Origins & atmosphere
The concept emerged around 2011 and opened its doors in April 2012, born of a desire to blend two traditions: the record-shop experience and the humble British pie. From the outset the owners set out to create a friendly space where you could browse new vinyl releases, limited-edition indie pressings and reissues, then settle in for a good pie and mash while you reflect on your finds. The location in Southsea, just off the seafront, gives it added appeal — perfect for a visit before or after a stroll by the coast.
What you’ll find
The record section is strong: new releases, limited editions (including those from the Dinked collective) and reissues feature alongside occasional second-hand vinyl. Genres are broad, leaning into indie, alternative, psych, vinyl culture, and the sort of releases that vinyl lovers treasure. But the food side is equally genuine: the café serves pies (meat, vegetarian, vegan, even gluten-free options), mash, gravy and good drinks — making the store a hybrid experience. The décor and layout reflect this mix: records on display, posters on the walls, seating for a light meal or drink, and a shop that, rather than feeling like a standard store, invites you to linger.
Why visit
You’ll get the best of both worlds: a record-store browse and a comfortable snack break — unusual and memorable.
The independent character shines through: the staff are music-lovers who want to chat and help you uncover something special.
The location in Southsea makes it accessible and attractive for visitors to the Portsmouth area or fans of vinyl willing to travel for something original.
The food side has genuine care: multiple dietary options, friendly service and the kind of environment where you might stay longer than planned.
In summary
If you’re browsing through record-shops and want something a little different, Pie & Vinyl stands out. Whether your goal is to discover a limited-edition vinyl pressing or simply to sit down with a slice of pie and let the records spin in the background, this is a place worth visiting. It captures the spirit of independent music retail, gives you a reason to linger, and adds flavour — literally and figuratively — to the record-shop experience. For Southsea and beyond, it’s a destination that reinforces why independent music spaces still matter.
