The Winchester

The grand architecture of the building makes this an impressive-looking pub but the atmosphere can fall flat, leaving the Winchester feeling a bit hollow.

The Venue
From the outside, The Winchester seems like any of the pubs on Poole Hill. However, push open the large wooden doors and you’ll be surprised by the interesting decor of this lovely old building.

High, dark pink ceilings covered in old-fashioned detailing are held up by grand pillars. Elegant marble panelling has been bordered with thin strips of wood, which adds a classy yet traditional look.

But it seems British pubs can't escape a modern-lounge-bar makeover these days, and the Winchester is no exception. Comfy leather sofas big enough for a large group of friends to spend the evening 'lounging' are everywhere.

Getting a drink can be quite a trek from these sofas as, due to the sheer size of the Winchester, the seating feels like some sort of outpost from the main bar area.

The People
The customers of the Winchester are the usual pub crowd – a mix of young and old wanting a casual drink and a lively night.

Regulars are either fed up with life or bored with the decor as they spend their afternoons staring into the bottom of their pint glasses. Without the large groups of friends that pile in throughout the evening, the place becomes very dull, rapidly.

So, thank the lords above for live music nights, of which the Winchester has plenty. Twice a month they host two or three local bands, plus there are open mic nights. And this, coupled with the large gaggles of locals who fill up the large seating areas, makes the ambience much more sociable and relaxing.

The Food
The Winchester has recently introduced a new menu, but there's nothing to give gastropubs much to worry about. It's usual pub fare, a mix of panini, jacket potatoes, baguettes, burgers, rib-eye steaks, sandwiches, and wraps and the odd shoulder of lamb. Prices are around £6 a meal, which isn't to be sniffed at, and you can get two dishes for £10.

The Drink
The Winchester doesn’t sell real ale at the moment, although they have the taps. As for beers, Fosters, Stella and Boddingtons are among those available for £3 to £3.50 a pint. The simple selection of wine and spirits is a little more than adequate with reasonable prices for both.

The Last Word
The building itself has lots of sophisticated character, the customers are much more laidback than their surroundings but, as a whole, the Winchester fails to be anything really special.

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