The Phoenix, Southsea

A rather brilliant backstreet local with bags of character. Two bar interior in a traditional style; loads of old TV and theatre memorabilia to be seen including lots of framed black and white photos of the old stars who appeared in the playhouse over the way. In addition there’s plenty of leftfield bric-a-brac and a load of Portsmouth FC stuff. As noted elsewhere, numerous St George Cross and Union Jacks around the pub, don’t take Guardian reading Greta in here. There’s also a fantastic rear garden to be sampled, with old pub paraphernalia. Three ales on; Ringwood Fortyniner, Sharps Doom Bar and a welcome sighting of Goldmark Warrior (NBSS 3). A proper buzz inside from the patrons. A real find this one and I’d definitely be wanting to pop in again whilst it’s like this. 8.5

The Phoenix consists of a U-shaped bar with jukebox, television and dartbord to the left and thin bar with seating to the right. The television was off, but there was some background music playing at quite a high volume for a Friday afternoon. The walls are adorned with film and television memorabilia including lots of photos of actors. The governor must be very patriotic as there are St George’s Crosses and union jacks all over the pub. Also, the Queen stands holding an England flag in a first-floor window above the entrance. I noted that there is a quiz every Sunday. Standard keg is available, and I counted three hand pumps which were drawing Goldmark’s Warrior, Ringwood’s Forty-Niner and Sharp’s Doom Bar. Food is not served. I liked it in here and would gladly return if in the area.

Characterful corner local retaining a twin-bar layout, separated by narrow gap. There is a great selection of theatre memorabilia and vintage ephemera to look at in the lounge, and the side patio beer garden is a fine spot when the sun's out. Three real ales on handpump: Doom Bar, Ringwood 49er and Goldmark Warrior (£1.85, half).