PUBS across the country have had a tough time over the past 18 months.

As a result of Covid-19 restrictions, boozers have been constantly open and closing and adapting to changing rules.

But since July 19, most have began to operate at close to full capacity again with lockdowns restrictions lifted.

So now with the areas pubs open for a few months, The Echo asked its readers what their favourite pubs are. 

Daily Echo: The Park Inn, Shirley. Photo from: Google Maps.The Park Inn, Shirley. Photo from: Google Maps.

The Park Inn - Shirley

A traditional street corner pub with a long history of serving its community, the corner which the Park Inn is on has been the site of a pub since 1834.

Fully refurbished and modernised in 2016 it has a single bar yet still retains a lounge and public bar feel with room to either stand at the bar or sit at tables.

Reader, Mark Stewart, said it is "the most friendly pub" he knows and added that it has "amazing hosts".

Daily Echo: The Witch's Brew, Shirley. Photo from: Google Maps.The Witch's Brew, Shirley. Photo from: Google Maps.

The Witch's Brew - Shirley

A micro pub nestled which offers cask and bottled ale, cider, wine, spirits and soft drinks.

The pub is described as having a "quirky feel and a beautiful rear garden".

Nicola Brothers said: "Fab atmosphere, fab landlady and she sells the best real ales hubby says, I prefer rum night."

Daily Echo: The Dolphin, Botley. Photo from: Google Maps.The Dolphin, Botley. Photo from: Google Maps.

The Dolphin - Botley

Described as one of the "old familiars" in the area, The Dolphin is located on the south side of the High Street, next to the Market Hall.

"Steeped in history" it was at one point one of 14 inns in the village and more recently has been an important Jazz venue, a ‘spit-and-sawdust’ bikers’ pub, a wedding and event venue, a Hungry Horse and, from 2017, part of the Wadworth ‘Managed House’ portfolio.

Daily Echo reader, Traci Robin described the pub as "wonderful".

Daily Echo: The Good Companions, Eastleigh. The Good Companions, Eastleigh.

The Good Companions - Eastleigh

Reader, Sarah Radband, said that this pub is one of her favourites.

Described as a "warm and welcoming" pub, it is based on the outskirts of Eastleigh Town centre and children, family and dog friendly!

The Good Companions boasts a downstairs bar area offering customers the chance to view daily sports fixtures and listen to some music and an outside dart board has also now been added for those who want to play or practice their skills.

Daily Echo: The Saints Pub, Millbrook. The Saints Pub, Millbrook.

The Saints Pub - Millbrook

Named after Southampton Football Club, in October 1962, the Saints Pub is described as a "true part" of the community with customers of all ages coming on a regular basis.

After having a makeover a few years back locals are said to be always mentioning how much, for the better, the changes have been.

This pub is the favourite of Echo reader, Roger Neil Andrews.