The Keys, Southampton

Pub SignMan left this review about The Keys

Right in the heart of Totton, this deceptively large Craft Union pub opens with a carpeted front area dotted with tables and chairs either side of a central aisle. A row of pillars runs down the middle, dressed in patterned wallpaper and framed photos. The central space is bare-boarded, with the servery on the left and a row of banquette booths opposite, each fitted with its own TV screen, all showing horse racing. A raised rear section sits beyond, carpeted again and decked out with padded and tub chairs, dartboard and a few fruit machines. The bar itself has a dull tongue-and-groove counter front and a tiled back wall, and another TV screen above the bar mirrored the racing coverage. The atmosphere was muted, despite piped music competing with multiple screens and slot machine bleeps. A garden to the rear offered a quieter alternative, though it wasn't busy when I visited.
Fullers London Pride was the sole cask option (£2.05 a half), with Wychwood Hobgoblin Gold noted as off. Service was swift and friendly, albeit a little distracted, with the barmaid minding a young child in a pram behind the counter.
Craft Union pubs certainly have their place in the wider pub landscape, and nowhere moreso than in under-pubbed towns such as Totton, where it’s basic formula at least ensures the presence of some cask ale and various entertainment options. I thought this place was a little homelier than others I’ve visited in recent years, but I found it a pretty depressing, lifeless spot overall and was glad that the town’s micropub was just a short distance away.

Date of visit: 29th March 2025

On 8^th September 2025 - rating: 5
[User has posted 3387 recommendations about 3387 pubs]