St James Tavern, Winchester

An end of terrace red brick building with entrance through a narrow black door on the main street. This pub was only a short walk from the Westgate, but all uphill. The interior was all painted dark blue walls and ceilings with aged oak furniture, along with an oak bar counter. Eight handpumps with a few beers doubled up, including one cider. Henry's IPA, 6x and Horizon. Prices were £4.90 a pint and the staff were all very welcoming and helpful.

Corner pub set at a slight acute angle with three main spaces: the compact bar as you enter, a small seating area to the right and a raised and larger seating / dining area at the back. Quite dark, with very traditional furniture and decor throughout. Although branded as a Wadworth house, it is run by a small local chain (the Little Pub Group), with 6X, Henry's IPA, Horizon (£2.30, half) and Oakham Citra available as a guest from the bank of eight handpumps when we visited.

Official site of St James Tavern - the.littlepubgroup.co.uk

Official site of St James Tavern - the.littlepubgroup.co.uk

A rather ordinary Wadworth's pub,much as described by others, below. I went for the 6X which was in good condition and priced about average for the area. It's worth dropping into when passing, and I'd include in a crawl, but the staff and atmosphere are such that I wouldn't want it as my local.

Wadworth house part the way up a steep hill,so a useful place to catch your breath.A traditional interior on different levels,the two higher wings felt more like dining areas whereas the space around the small mid building bar was good for drinkers with several high tables on which to pertch.Ale selection on my trip was Wadsworth Horizon,6X and Henry's IPA with a guest in Oakham Citra (NBSS 3.5). Worth a stop on a crawl,maybe not enough to inspire a long session.