The Guide Dog, Bevois Valley, Southampton

Finding myself in Southampton for the evening, I made the lengthy, but ultimately worthwhile, trek from the train station to this charming back-street local’s pub. There were 8 hand pumps, all in use when I arrived, serving up a mixture of familiar favourites and more obscure local brewers. I tried the Bowman's Elderado and Swift One and the Flowerpots Gooden's Gold, all of which were in top condition. The pub started to fill up from around 6pm until it was packed to bursting point in the run up to Southampton's cup game that evening. The atmosphere was excellent, helped by the friendly and efficient bar staff. Saints fans will be pleased by the interesting prints and other such memorabilia that adorns the walls. An absolute must for visitors to Southampton; I'll certainly be back the next time I'm in town.

Official site of the Guide Dog - theguidedogsouthampton.co.uk

Previously known as Harry's Bar Star Hotel Boarded up,not trading at present 20091101

A true back street local free house! You get a warm welcome from both the staff and locals and very soon feel like part of the furniture in this fantastic local free house with 8 real ales pumps all maintained in tip-top condition. The staff know their beers well and can advise on tasting notes or you can ask for a taster. There are beer festivals, belgium and forieng beers and a great ever changing selection of beers from around the UK. This has to be the best pub for atmosphere, friendly locals and most of all the largest selection of first class ales that helped it win pub of the year 2005, 2007, 2008 & 2009.. Do not miss it!

Official site of the Guide Dog - theguidedogsouthampton.co.uk