Fox & Hounds, Southampton

Part of the pub dates from the 16th Century, and it’s evolved since then into a rambling multi-level pub. It’s currently run by GK. It’s reached down a narrow country lane, and it has a reasonable car park . There is a garden at the back in a pleasant pseudo-rural setting, a great location. There are exposed beams in the older part of the pub, plus an unusual wooden bar, designed to look like a cooper’s work, though not quite being barrel work. There is also a brick fireplace crammed with chopped logs. The part at the back is more modern and has a barn-like quality. Sadly, GK isn’t making the most of this pub’s potential, and despite the best efforts of the staff, it feels corporate and functional, lacking in atmosphere. The menu is standard GK fare, plus Sunday roasts. There is no WiFi. GK IPA and Abbott were the only ales on, and there was a pump clipped with a GK brown ale though this wasn’t working. Keg options included Madri and a couple of Aspall’s ciders. It’s fine for a meal and a quiet drink, and it’s the sort of place to take your grandmother on a Sunday, though don’t forget to take the urn home with you.

Official site of Fox & Hounds - www.chefandbrewer.com

Official site of Fox & Hounds - www.chefandbrewer.com

The front part of the pub is the 'Fox and hounds' and the building dates back to the 16th Century. To the back, the old Lone barn was actually moved from Winchester to its present position and dates from 1871. Very much to the Chef & Brewer style this pub should have a higher rating than it has but over the years the food has let it down but recent reviews seem to say it's on the up. I live locally but only visit this pub once in a blue moon as it's set up visitors and I've never noticed any 'locals'. You can't fault the surroundings and there's no trouble parking unlike some other bozzers in the area. Good choice of beers on with Courage Best,Fullers London Pride,Ringwood Fortyniner, and a guest ale from the Hogs Back Brewery. Worth a visit if you want to impress the girl friend with your knowledge of 'out of the way' pubs that everybody knows about.