The Lawrence Arms, Southsea

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Malden man left this review about The Lawrence Arms

This is a deservedly popular back street local in an area rich in pubs which to my mind, compliment each other. L-shaped inside, mainly carpeted but with a boarded area extending around the bar servery area, seating is reassuringly traditional at perimeter banquettes and chairs/stools at small tables. Half hidden behind an opening is a pool table, free to use on Mondays, there is also a working dartboard with a proud collection of trophies on display above. Local allegiances are firmly evident around the pool area with several framed Portsmouth FC shirts, some autographed plus a montage of photos of a legendary 4-1 victory for Pompey away at fierce rivals Southampton. Décor includes a few local pictures, black and white naturally, ships, more modern pictures of Gunwharf Quays and the seafront, bottles and stone jars on a shelf, books on a shelf included the GBG. The ceiling is dark, black possibly with a lincrusta appearance, light upper walls, lower red or panelled. A door leads to a garden but I didn't look as it was chucking it down. Sky Sports on TV showing football.
Four handpumps, Doom Bar, Irving Red Plum, Oakleaf Reindeer Delight, Nelson Friggin' in the Riggin' plus four boxes of cider behind the bar, 2x Old Rosie, Wyld Wood plus one other, Old Harvest I think it said. Pump clips all over the light wood bar back. Food served but were limited to toasties on Sunday, £1.50, good value.
This is a great backstreet local with a real community feel, a buffet was set up on a side table for a group who entered during my stay, presumably celebrating some family occasion or other. I liked the pub greatly, it would make a splendid friendly local.

On 15^th December 2013 - rating: 8
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