Winchester Arms, Buckland, Portsmouth

Known locally as The Winch, this back street Victorian corner pub is a cut above many similar establishments nearby. There is a small garden but it's only really much use as a smokers' area. The décor is eclectic and comfortable, making the knocked-through main bar feel cosier than it should. There is a small snug – imaginatively named 'Ye Old Snug' – at the back; this was unlit and unused when we visited. Dogs are welcomed, on leads of course, but remain subordinate to the pub cat, the only Minder in this particular Winchester, who sat Sphinx-like on a ledge by the door. The atmosphere was friendly and convivial, the locals, a decent bunch, and staff alike were welcoming and happy to chat and the ambience not unlike that of an Edwardian Aunt's parlour. There was a mute TV screen, a collection of parlour games and a stack of books for the literate to enjoy. They run various community events including open mic nights and live music, and they hold an annual beer festival in the Summer. There were 4 pumps on the bar, one dry. The others had Truman's Zephyr, Sharp's Sea Fury and Hobgoblin Gold. The beer was in excellent condition, well worth staying for a few more than intended. A superb local, one of the better pubs in this neighbourhood and worth dropping in for a few pints when passing.

Spitfire, Hobgoblin, Oakleaf Holehearted, 1 pump unclipped. Woody traditional décor, heavy dark wood back-bar & high ceiling beams, round wood tables & sturdy chairs, chatty clientele suggests a locals local, and nowt wrong with that. Small tv showing Wales-England Sat eve, my notes say ‘book corner, & decorative plates/tankards stylee' whatever that meant? Walk round to the rear bar (or rather servery, no pumps here), a wood/fabric horseshoe banquette provides good seating for a large-ish group and, beyond this, a dartboard with its own space & oche. Barmaid was watching the note-taking & providing banter, ok Caz - you have your extra point!