The Prince Consort, Netley

From the outside, looks like a traditional pub. The inside however has been gutted and turned into a modern, "trendy" restaurant and bar. Most of the seating is laid out in restaurant style, which means everyone just hangs out in the small bar area at the front. It's nice enough but has no atmosphere and is completely soulless. Seems totally out of place for a local village pub, though the garden may be a redeeming feature (it was closed when I visited).

Uninspired choice of ales (Pride and Ringwood) but quality ok, plus the usual lagers. Service fine, but made difficult by the habit of locals to stand around at the bar (presumably due to not wanting to sit in restaurant-style chairs or on the very few sofas/armchairs)

The style would be more appropriate in the city (and I would avoid it even there) but in Netley I just can't see the point.

21 May 2007 12:59