Rare city centre shots of bustling Commercial Road

Three lovely pictures here of Commercial Road, Portsmouth, in the vicinity of Lake Road.

They come from Remember When regular contributor David Janes, from Alverstoke, Gosport, who thinks they might be rarities.

A view just south of the Lake Road junction with H Samuel on the right. The cafe on the left became the poular Black Cat restaurant in the 1950s and 60s.placeholder image
A view just south of the Lake Road junction with H Samuel on the right. The cafe on the left became the poular Black Cat restaurant in the 1950s and 60s.

He says: ‘The three pre-war views were probably taken in 1935 with flags and bunting celebrating King George V’s Silver Jubilee.

‘I do not believe these have been published before, but one can never be sure.’

Lake Road junction with the Emperor of India pub on the left. The narrow road straight ahead is Paradise Street leading to Crasswell Street. A Southdown bus is passing a policeman on point duty. Note the sign for Corbins shoe shop.placeholder image
Lake Road junction with the Emperor of India pub on the left. The narrow road straight ahead is Paradise Street leading to Crasswell Street. A Southdown bus is passing a policeman on point duty. Note the sign for Corbins shoe shop.
Related topics:
News you can trust since 1877
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice