The thing that most grabs you about this pub, aside from the decoration which reminds you of the inside of an old sailing vessel, is the atmosphere.

The walls are decorated with various objects and posters, ranging from hubcaps above the pool table to old posters of local transport.

In all it gave a very genuine impression but still could claim to host a very good party.

This particular instance was a Saturday night but not like I anticipated. To start with, it wasn't jam-packed full of people but still, it felt busy and lively.

The music was just to my particular taste - house music, not too heavy but just right. I don't know of any other pubs yet that are happy to have such a niche music policy on what would be their busiest night of the week. Feeling right at home, I checked out the facilities.

Pool table and dartboard were to be found just up from the bar and although the jukebox wasn't on, I'm sure it and the TV are ample entertainment during the day.

The music runs from Wednesday to Saturday with all varieties on the cards. This night's music was from Semi-detached who are tied in from The Rhino Club, which usefully is just opposite the pub.

We had missed happy hour from 5pm till 7pm but still I was happy to drink at the normal prices, with a jug of lager at about £6.

Food is available 11am until 10pm with an above-average selection from pub grub to decent meals. RH

1-2 Bedford Place, Southampton