The Station Hotel, Bitterne Park

This has never been a brilliant pub. It has, from time to time, been an ok pub. If you are a devotee of real ale, don't expect too much, it can be rather "hit or miss". If you go there before a Saints game, when you eventually get served, get yourself a couple - it might be half time, by the time you get served again! On balance though, at other times it pretty much does the job. Nothing is too pricey, the food isn't bad, and a couple of the staff are friendly, and eager to help. It is what it is.

19 Aug 2015 00:08

The Butchers Hook, Southampton

Now that I have been able to find an empty seat in the BH, and not wriggle my way through the throng, or queue outside in the rain, it seems that the Emperor may have some new clothes. The beers are, clearly, pretty good (in the main - not having had a chance to sample many) but even the one tasted by my erstwhile brother (a very fine brew) was not worth nearly £10 a pint!

It is plain to see that this is a popular bar, but it seems to be a triumph of style over substance. That said, if the "sardines" want to squeeze in there, and bellow to each other (not the spot, for a quiet pint or three) then fair play to them. There are splendid pints of beauteous, foaming, cask-conditioned English ales to be had - for less money and with room to stretch the legs, and if the beloved wants to whisper sweet somethings in your shell-like, then you'll be able to hear - within a mile or so. I wouldn't say that I won't visit again, but generally, I'll be crossing the bridge, or walking up the river.

18 Aug 2015 22:33