The pub scene of Portsmouth is as varied as it is vibrant. From recognisable high street names to backstreet boozers, we really do have it all. All this means, however, that finding the right watering hole for you might require a little forethought. Are you looking for an authentic old haunt frequented by members of the Royal Navy, a gently lit bolthole with stunning views, or somewhere that does happy hour prices on branded lagers?
Thankfully, there is a wealth of choice, and just some of the pubs in Portsmouth are detailed in the listings below.
Generally speaking, the area around Albert Road is home to a lot of independent pubs - or those run by nearby breweries. You won't find a Wetherspoon's or Yates's here, but instead a wealth of unique, quirky pubs with a lot of backstory and...Read More
The pub scene of Portsmouth is as varied as it is vibrant. From recognisable high street names to backstreet boozers, we really do have it all. All this means, however, that finding the right watering hole for you might require a little forethought. Are you looking for an authentic old haunt frequented by members of the Royal Navy, a gently lit bolthole with stunning views, or somewhere that does happy hour prices on branded lagers?
Thankfully, there is a wealth of choice, and just some of the pubs in Portsmouth are detailed in the listings below.
Generally speaking, the area around Albert Road is home to a lot of independent pubs - or those run by nearby breweries. You won't find a Wetherspoon's or Yates's here, but instead a wealth of unique, quirky pubs with a lot of backstory and bartenders ready to tell it. Albert Road is also a hub for the local student community - but being home to more second and third years than freshers, it's more beer bellies than vodka jellies. You can enjoy traditional pubs, modern tap houses and even a speciality gin bar.
If something more familiar is in order, a stop off at Guildhall Walk or Gunwharf Quays may be your best bet. Here, the big-name chains thrive, offering good pint prices, cocktail deals, plenty of seating and food for the whole family. Guildhall Walk is especially well-placed for pre-show food and drink if you’ve got a ticket for the New Theatre Royal or Portsmouth Guildhall.
For many people, there’s simply no looking beyond Old Portsmouth. Whilst a few centuries ago this area would be home to Portsmouth's worst ne'er-do-wells and shady characters, it's now one of the city's most affluent areas - something reflected in the pub scene. The main route through Old Portsmouth is lined with upmarket pubs selling the best locally sourced food and drinks. It's also one of the city's quieter night spot, so it's ideal for those wanting to while away the evenings without too much hustle and bustle. After a stroll along its cobbled and lamplit back streets you can hide away with some quality food and drink, maybe even with a sea view to boot.
If you're looking to try a local ale, seek some out by our local brewers, who include Irving, Staggeringly Good and Southsea Brewing Co.
Our listings below showcase the best pubs and bars in Portsmouth, so you can see which ones most take your fancy and add them to your itinerary by clicking the heart icon.
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