The Westgate, Winchester

Luckily for us there was two Flower Pots Ales on handpump on our visit, Four Candles and Perridge Pale. We went for the Perridge which was in top class condition. The interior in here is quite trendy, but we found there to be limited seating, I tried an armchair in the raised section on the left and I was practically sitting on the floor. We however found some high stools across from the bar and had a great view along the street. There was also a choice of four ciders and perry's on our visit. Lilley's Pineapple, Mango, Bee Sting Still Perry and Crazy Goat Blended cider and perry.

As described by others, below, this Victorian city hotel has seen better days. There is a supposedly a 'secret garden' but it can't have been that secret as there was a sign pointing to it; we didn't explore it as there just wasn't the will or the curiosity. There were 4 dry pumps on the bar and a fifth dispensing Red Cat Prowler, which was past its best. A sign advertises a range of crafty [sic] ales, but only Neck Oil was on offer. Somersby cider was also available. The young barman was more interested in his mobile phone than in serving customers, and the awful muzak was rather irritating. On the plus side there were dog biscuits available on the bar, though there were no canine customers present. I shan't be rushing back.

Dating from 1877, this grade II-listed pub was originally called the Westgate Hotel and indeed today there are 10 en-suite rooms. This place was trendified in 2016, so little if any original character remains, now with lots of grey paint, bare boarding, bare brick and a rough wood bar back; the only compliment I could pay the place is the fine view out over the Winchester museum complex. Disappointingly, there were four unused pumps, then just one dispensing Red Cat Prowler at a very agreeable £2.15 a half. However, it was as dull and boring as the pub; I didn’t finish it. The St. James Tavern over the way is a far superior option.

Prominently located on a busy road junction, this is a large high-ceilinged pub done up in a slightly gastro sort of way with lots of grey decor and framed prints. A long and narrow room at the backs leads to an outdoor area at the rear. The nice bank of five handpumps was sadly underutilised, with just a solitary and rather tired Red Cat Prowler on offer. Could be much better.