Southampton Arms, Andover

A large lively town pub, stretching back into what used to be the garden. In better times the extension held a number of pool tables, currently it’s used mainly for socially distanced tables. Service is at the counter, queuing for drinks and to pay. The atmosphere is loud, the locals are reasonably welcoming, the décor is somewhat dated. It wasn’t pleasant, mainly because the dreadful music from the jukebox was overloud and the smell of smoke wafting in from outside was quite strong No real ale on, just Hobgoblin, Doombar and Pride in bottles. They offer cooked breakfasts. Not worth making the effort.

Tidy looking Greene King outlet, with a good decked sun-trap area out front. L-shaped interior, quite tightly packed in and not a huge amount of note, decorated in mushroom brown shades. Punter entertainment included a TV showing Leicester v Burnley and dart board. Three ales available; Abbot, IPA and OSH (lackadaisical). Shifting a fair bit of food, breakfasts were flying out. High tat count amongst the clientèle and a slightly edgy atmosphere for my liking.