The Dolphin

A 250-year-old veteran, The Dolphin is reckoned to be the oldest inn in Portsmouth. Located down by the docks & naval base, its ageless interior – flagstones, beams & old-fashioned character by the ton – comes complete with two open fires, atmospheric nooks & crannies, & a restaurant alongside the bar. Eat where you like from a menu that doesn’t stray too far from the pubby repertoire: South Downs sausages with mash & onion gravy, liver & bacon, warm chicken & chorizo salad, or peppered beef stew. Tapas & snacks such as a hog-roast bap have found favour too. Pleasant service helps things along.