Dukes Bar @ Queens Hotel, Southsea

Very imposing building, with a splendid entrance lobby atop the porticoed entrance staircase and the Duke Bar just to the right. Unfortunately this is just a typical hotel bar, although there are good views across the common from certain windows. No real ale, unfortunately, so went for the Cellar Head American pale ale from Sweden's Backyard Brew (£2.80, half) as a change.

Fantastic building which operates as a hotel but has a sizeable public bar with arresting views. Sadly there was no ale on so we skipped on it. Craft keg wise, there was Wells DNA.

Primarily a residential hotel, but it has a very pleasant bar which is open to the public. The hotel is grand, with an imposing staircase to the lobby and a small parking area to the front. It is, conversely, very welcoming and offers 'normal' pub services such as a Sunday carvery and the usual drinks selection. That said, there is currently no real ale on, but the bar manager – a very friendly and engaging individual – is working on bringing in a selection of ales on handpump within the next couple of months. He appears knowledgeable and enthusiastic about his beers, and previously worked for Fullers, so great things are expected (no pressure...). I look forward to returning here soon to see whether the dream has materialised. Meanwhile, the bar is cosy and comfortable, the clientele is civilised, and there is an excellent view along the War Memorial Transit (yachties will get that one) which is sadly partly obscured by hedges which need to be better controlled. Background music was relaxing and uncontrived – mostly trad jazz. I quite liked it here and am very much looking forward to the ales. Might even find an excuse to bring Mrs A.