THIS vibrant new bar has been a real hit since it opened in August and every Saturday night it is packed to capacity. The design downstairs is trendy and sophisticated with deep red and light purple dcor. It is quite spacious with plenty of room at the bar and comfortable, leather seating. The bar is brilliantly lit and the back wall constantly changes colour.

Mondays are targeted at the football fans and include the best crowd-puller in town - free food! There are drinks promotions every night of the week including VAT-free drinks until 8pm each night. There are alcopops galore as well as lagers, spirits, wines and a varied cocktail menu.

Music is generally commercial chart with R'n'B on Sundays. After the new year there will also be regular live bands. The bar is open until 12am during the week, 1am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and until 12.30am on Sundays. Entrance is free, although there is a smart dress policy.

Open during the day and at the weekends, the upstairs balcony bar is elegantly designed with warm green and pine furniture. This floor can be hired out free for private parties during the week. It is a lovely place to eat with large windows looking out to the street and the park.

During the summer there is outdoor seating so you can enjoy your lunch next to the park in the sunshine. Food is reasonably priced and there is a "no microwave dinner" policy. All meals are cooked from fresh, and if you give prior notice the chef will even cook requested dishes that are not on the menu.

Toad at the Park is one of Southampton's liveliest pre-club venues and also a great family place to visit during the day. SL

Toad at the Park - Above Bar Street, Southampton