The Spyglass Inn, Ventnor

I stayed at the pub for two nights, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. We were pretty much a captive audience as the weather was shocking but that was fine as I adore this pub. The drinks and accommodation are pricey but the food is very reasonable and the portions are huge.
I had fantastically fresh whitebait for New Year's Day lunch, the service is also good. Another reviewer, I think it was Fuggle mentioned a lady who looked like Helen Mirren, think this might be the lady that checked us in and out of the accommodation but she was so friendly and very helpful when it came to going home, she called loads of cab companies to get us a ride to the station.
Also we met lots of people who live on the island whilst drinking and dining in the pub who were really friendly. I like the interior with all the maritime paraphernalia and the views are breathtaking. Wouldn't want to to be the cleaner though with all that dusting! One of my top ten for sure.

16 Apr 2012 10:19

The Alexandra, Farnborough

This pub was the best thing about my visit to Farnborough. Stayed at the Village Hotel and wanted to find a traditional pub to repair to in the evenings and I was glad we found the Alexandra. My partner and I felt welcome there despite the pub having that feel of being a locals pub, the landlord was friendly, there's a decent smoking area at the rear of the pub and the jukebox is ok. Really good barmaid on the Saturday night we were there too. Oh, and they serve a quality glass of wine at a very reasonable price. There is a bird in a cage in the bar which might deter some folk but it didn't bother us.

16 Apr 2012 10:02

The Old Courthouse, Cove

Visited this pub last March 2011. Quite a nasty place to be honest, terrible wine but the worst thing about it was the clientele, it was beyond chavvy. The locals seemed friendly enough but I had the impression it could turn nasty at any moment with a wrong word or look and the toilets were shocking. I hope it's improved but I'm wary to return and would instead recommend the Alexandra down the road, a friendly and welcoming traditional boozer with a decent smoking area.

16 Apr 2012 09:52