The Blue Anchor, North End, Portsmouth

A pub which has greatly improved since my last visit about 4 years ago, possibly due to new management. The single-roomed high street bar remains noisy and full, but this is a good sign. The bouncers on the door were friendly enough, and they kept out many of those who used to bring this pub down. Saturday nights offer live music, the clientele is lively and represents a wide age range, there is a dartboard, the atmosphere is convivial and there are two ales on, both from Oakleaf. I had Hole Hearted which was in excellent condition. The positive changes have made this a pub worth visiting for a decent pint provided you don't mind standing.

Went past on bus August Bank holiday Monday 2013, steel shutters now removed, pub is open again