Service was ok. Busy and fussy. Felt that the bar person would rather I wasn't there. I can see through all of this and the beer choice/condition was fantastic 7/10. Will visit at end of may and will rate according. Be open minded.Congrats Judy and team on your award, you kept that quiet didn't you.

The Barley Mow, Castle Road, has won a prestigious award for the quality of its real ale. The accolade, devised by Greene King in conjunction with The Publican newspaper, saw the pub beat hundreds of other contenders in the nationwide search for the country's Best Cask Ale Pub.Lovely frendly local pub that I wish was one of mine.I have only been twice but on both occasions had a friendly welcome and a nice pint of beer.The first time I visited they had a Porter and a mild rather than just Bitters.Cheese toasties at £1.50 go down well too!

Sadly not as good as the Spice Island which is a shame as it used to be a great pub, still is in many ways but since Fuller's took over the beer quality has declined and the crowd that go there has taken a shift towards the rough side.Sadly not as good as the Spice Island which is a shame as it used to be a great pub, still is in many ways but since Fuller's took over the beer quality has declined and the crowd that go there has taken a shift towards the rough side.I've visited this pub on many occasions over the last 25 years. Definitely a summer pub! It would be difficult to find a boozer in a more interesting location,what with the ferrys gliding past as you're supping your pint. Have to agree with earlier reviewers that it can be a long process actually getting your pint in your hand though, due to a lack of bar staff numbers at busier times. Foods good,if not a tad over priced. But all in all I love going to this pub situated right on the neck of Pompey harbour.

Cosy pub, changed hands a while ago, and the food is nowhere near as good- the restraunt is also very cramped too.
Food now ok, but nothing great for the price.
Nice staff and nice bar, if cramped (!)
Have been here a few times in the last year. Clientele can seem a bit posh at times but no hassle and a good atmosphere.
Enjoyed a meal there as well, good emphasis on fish, a bonus given its location to the fish market. Only downside was a hen do near us that were very noisy, the acoustics where we were sat were not great. Almost enough to put us off our meal. Not kill joys just very noisy.

food is not cheap but you get what you pay for.

Would reccomend. Great little pub, great food, good beer and all the bar staff are very good looking - the girls and the lads!

i have been going to this pub for 6 years now and i must say its one of the most nicest and friendliest of places down the filth of guildhall walk, i broke my foot and the blonde door steward helped me in the venue and even helped me sit down.
i had to show my id which i was a bit concerned about but when the guy who was standing in the road explained to me why i agreed and thought it was a excellent way to keep people safe knowing that if something happens to you the paramedics have your details on your id.
there was a few fights in the club but i witnessed the doorstaff talking to a gentleman for around 5 mins and eventually they restrained him and ejected him which i thought was very good and professional i feel very safe when i go in the pub and id just like to let people know this is a excellent pub dont mock it till you have been there.I agree completely about the door staff. There is one serious dyke that stands at the door ~ she looks like the headmistress from Matilda!

i Like in there ~ great staff!!! I love the live bands that play and good for an afternoon of ruggas.

Oh and they have proper size lunches!
Common theme here (dont the staff read)!!!

The door staff are the most horrible, and utterly unreasonable people I have ever met (and yes we were "allowed" in)
they seem to pick arguments with everyone in the que for no reason, truly Horrible!
- a great shame beacuse the bar staff are ALL lovely, serve in turn ,polite and helpful (recommendeing beers)
Why have the IDIOTS on the door set a very bad impression beofre your even inside; they were activly instigating confruntation, even with the girls!
*MANAGEMENT NOTE - THEY ARE RUINING YOUR BAR!!*

Some of the crowd may be a little on the rough side, but friendly barlady.The Magpie is now reportedly closed.

http://www.portsmouthpubs.org.uk/pubnews.htmlnew owners, serving the same agressive drunks, avoid at all costs

After mouthing off 4 of the bouncers threw me out, I was unimpressed and challenged them....at which point they proceeded to wrestle me to the ground and sat on me for 40 mins until I was dead....not even a coutesy beer while I waited for the ambulance
Not recommendedAfter last visit went back with some workmates. Food was a bit hit and miss as half the stuff on the menu was no longer available. Still reasonable value.Service was ok the evening we went there. As with all Spoony's it serves great value food and drink.