The Hinkler, Southampton (From Daily Echo)

The Hinkler, Hinkler Road, Thornhill, Southampton

in Pub Reviews By Luke Tugby, Senior reporter

THEY say never judge a book by its cover, and this pub proves it.

From the outside, The Hinkler is nothing special – in fact, by the landlords’ own admission, it looks a little run down.

But step inside the Thornhill watering hole for the first time and you can’t help but be taken aback by its sheer size and modern feel.

Since taking the helm five years ago, Tracey Attwood and her partner, John Horrocks, have made wholesale changes.

And their hard work has certainly paid off.

The pub is back where it belongs – at the heart of its community.

The couple have installed Sky TV on five flat screens dotted around the building, including one in the bar lounge area, which has been kitted out by John himself.

With leather seating, stylishly tiled floors and a host of tables perfect for dining, it is almost a bar within a pub.

With sliding doors, the area can either be used as an extension of the pub, or hired out for private functions.

It has already proved popular for a host of occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries and christenings.

Back in the main bar, there are two new pool tables and a darts board, while the couple have also renovated the outside area to provide a quaint beer garden.

And their efforts have not gone unnoticed, with owners Marstons crowning the watering hole as its Community Pub of The Year, as previously reported in the Daily Echo.

But Tracey and John have no intention of stopping there.

The front of the building will soon be getting a facelift to match its contemporary interior and hope that will attract even more punters.

If that doesn’t, its very well priced food menu, which features all day breakfasts for £3.99, burgers from £2.40 and curries for £4.20, certainly will.

364 Hinkler Road,
Thornhill,
Southampton,
SO19 6DF
023 8043 5140
thehinkler.co.uk