When planning our trip, I made a point to include a few pubs that were historical in nature (easy enough in GB), that maybe had some spooky past or something, and was within walking distance of our hotel/airbnb. This one fit the bill on all accounts. We got here around 9-9:30pm, and like everywhere else, they were out of food. Steve suggested a place, and away we went. But alas, they had also stopped serving food. So we went to three other places, and each one had stopped serving food, so who needs food when you have beer, right?
It's interesting that none of the other reviewers have mentioned the historical significance (or even its presumed historical significance?). It's considered a Grade II listed pub, which means it's a pub of special historical interest in a more official capacity than other places. There's a plaque inside that reads: "Henry V Court Room: Scene of the trial of those who conspired against the life & crown of Henry V on 1413, prior to Henry's departure to Agincourt. The conspirators were found guilty & executed outside the nearby wargate." Interestingly enough as I was doing research on it, I read an article stating that the pub was built in the late 15th/early 16th century and that this appears to be a local legend because the trial took place in 1415, before the pub was even built. Regardless, I believe it's still one of the oldest pubs in Southampton.
Out of every pub we went to in England, Steve WAS THE ONLY ONE TO RECOMMEND A BEER I ACTUALLY LIKED. So 5 stars for Steve and his hospitality. The locals there were friendly, the bartender Steve was friendly, and we had a good time chatting with all of them about various things. Beer, drinking, where we were going and what we were seeing. It's a smaller, cozy type of atmosphere, sort of similar to what you'll find in smaller towns. I just wish I could have tried the food, as there are a ton of people raving about it on TripAdvisor. read more