Project Type: Blog

Craft Beer is at the centre, of the Raven and Bine

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

The Raven and Bine is a community space sat in Bedford Place Southampton. It is a new pub and Josh the manager said it has been great to see it transform into the pub it is today with London Style redecoration.

The Raven and Bine is part of Dancing Man Brewery who have been voted, for the 2nd year running, Best Pub in Southampton. The Raven and Bine is somewhere for people to sit and chat with someone and is a ‘home away from home.’

The pub has ‘positive vibes’ as described by students to frequent the pub especially on a weekend in the bustling Bedford Place. Craft beer is the focus and the pub has a large range which incises the students and older men who come for the craft beer. ‘The Craft Beer is at the centre of what we do so we get a really diverse group people.’ Says Josh.

The Raven and Bine also host a pub quiz on a Sunday night, which is packed out and people get a chance to meet new people. The beer is the pubs uniqueness alongside the outside space, right band in the city centre.

Visit The Raven & Bine

Amy Scott Pillow’s Artwork for The Raven and Bine

The Hop Inn – Our Pub is their home

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

The Hop Inn is a friendly place which local say serve the best food. The pub is run by Stu Fudge, who is a Sotonian and has lived in the area all of his life. Stu says ‘the pub is home. It’s a place where everyone comes in here and treats it how they want to treat it, we get everyone from all ages.’

Stu used to own another pub in Bitterne Park and when this pub came up he says ‘it was meant to be and we got it.’ Stu has been at the pub the last year or so.

The pub has 2 sides, one is more of a family, social side and loungey, again the food is excellent, and the other side has pool tables and dartboards. The pub supports people in darts leagues and the lads come in and train for the pool leagues and on the weekend, they have local bands.

Stu says the area is what makes the pub special, it is the only pub in the area and is a place for people to go meet, people get work, and they make their best friends. ‘People have met here, fallen in love here and even got married here. That’s why we call this place a home – it’s a community space,’ says Stu.

Stu says that pubs are a dying breed, and that people are worried about the bad reputation that comes with pubs. When actually the Hop’s regulars are people who learnt to play pool at 95 and one who had his 95^th birthday at the pub. They hold the world record for barefoot skiing and come in caked in mud from the challenge course to have a pint.

Visit The Hop Inn

Rich Lansley and Stephen Muldowney-Mizen, artist and poet for The Hop Inn

The Ship Inn is steeped in history

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

The Ship Inn Redbridge is a grade 2 listed building and is one of the oldest pubs in Southampton dating back to 1654. Aptly named the Ship Inn, the pub is made from parts of a ship and underneath the pub are the remains of smuggler tunnels, as in those days the pub would have backed on to the old quayside.

A number of Kings of England including Charles I, made use of its food and beverages, as well as spending the night there and royalty regularly enjoy the salmon-fishing on the nearby River Test.

The pub is now run by Alison, since 2008, and locals describe it as a ‘Home from Home.’ The pub is a great venue for company, with a beer garden and good food. Milli (Alison’s Daughter) is a Sotonian and said that ‘the pub is like a family; I have been coming here since I was a child and the place is warm and welcoming. We have lots of locals who come and have conversations, they are part of the furniture.’

Locals also enjoy the rich heritage of the building and find the history of the surrounding area fascinating. Locals mentioned the Redbridge railway works, who made track points and crossings for whole British rail network, as well as the canal tunnel under the City. People said that the History of the pub was important to them and that is why they liked the pub so much.

Milli says that ‘Pubs are very important in society and great way for people socialise’, so the pub often hosts a variety of functions and is a very busy family pub, with value for money, amazing Sunday roasts with big portion sizes, as one regular often jokes; ‘you will have to push me out in wheel barrel.’

Visit The Ship Inn

Julien Masson’s Artwork for The Ship Inn

The Mountbatten: A lifeline for many

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

The Mountbatten is a community centred, with most of the regulars coming from Lordshill, who have memories of it being a field, then a nightclub and now the Mountbatten. It is a very tight knit community with some having travelled the world and some not travelled at all, but everyone knows everyone and everyone helps each other.

Dawn, the Landlady of the Mountbatten is celebrating 30 years this year as Landlady. She originally started as a cleaner and then took over the lease to provide a space for local people to come, socialise and get away from it all. The pub is ‘like a family’ and many locals come especially for events such a meat draws, darts and karaoke nights, and the ‘bread and butter’ come in daily from 12pm to sit, have a pint and a chat.

The Mountbatten is a warm place for many says Dawn, in the colder winter months we see a lot of older people come in and just sit, have a chat and keep warm. Many locals recall on times when Dawn or other members of the community at the pub have helped them; from washing their clothes to calling round someone’s house when they haven’t been to the pub in a while and sending home food parcels.

One of the regulars said that The Mountbatten has been a lifeline for him. When he felt at his lowest the pub and locals picked him up and he now makes a trip to the pub part of his weekly routine.

Dawn has dedicated a wall to those who have passed and displays funeral programmes as a way to honour those community members and friends. Alongside the programmes is a picture of an older gentleman propped up at the side of the bar, which one of barmaids drew. Dawn keeps this alongside a plaque of Tommy Moore, who wasn’t the owner but everyone said, ‘he was just here.’

Visiting The Mountbatten

The Mountbatten provides convenient accessibility with on-site parking and readily available blue badge parking in the adjacent Sainsbury’s car park. The external seating area offers comfortable tables and chairs with wheelchair access at either end.

Patron Access is smooth via a ramped entrance with outward-opening doors. Inside, you’ll find ample space for easy movement, with lightweight, movable chairs. The well-lit interior features a relaxed atmosphere with low background music.

The accessible restroom is spacious and warm, equipped with lever taps and RADAR key access.

Staff are friendly.

Important Considerations:
No Food Option.
Cash Only

Visit The Mountbatten

Alice Louisa’s Artwork for The Mountbatten

The Saints Pub: A Beacon of Hope in Millbrook

Posted on February 11, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

The Saints Pub in Millbrook is a powerful example of how a local pub can become a vital community hub, addressing social issues and fostering positive change. More than just a place to grab a drink, The Saints has become a beacon of hope, thanks to its commitment to community support and social responsibility.

One of the significant challenges the pub has tackled is the local drug problem. Recognising the impact this issue has on the community; The Saints has actively sought ways to contribute to solutions and offer support. Their efforts, combined with other community initiatives, are working towards a brighter future for Millbrook.

A recent refurbishment has played a crucial role in the pub’s transformation. The refreshed space provides a welcoming and comfortable environment for locals to gather, connect, and enjoy the various activities on offer. This investment in the pub’s infrastructure reflects the commitment to creating a space where the community can thrive.

The Saints has also become a hub for local talent. Live bands regularly grace the stage, providing entertainment and showcasing the musical talent within the community. Summer events bring an extra dose of vibrancy, drawing crowds and creating a lively atmosphere. These events not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community spirit and belonging.

The pub’s commitment to social responsibility extends to youth engagement. By providing a safe and positive environment, The Saints offers young people a place to connect with their community and explore their creativity. This focus on youth engagement is an investment in the future of Millbrook.

The Saints also actively supports local artists. Their work is displayed at the pub, giving them a platform to showcase their talent and adding to the pub’s unique character. Even beer mats are seen as an opportunity for artistic expression, with local artists contributing their designs.

Visiting The Saints
The Saints offers a welcoming and accessible environment with on-site parking, including a designated blue badge bay.

Patron access via a concrete ramp to the function room, which is a well-lit interior with spacious areas. Accessible restrooms are available, and they provide menu options for vegan and gluten-free diets, with a menu also provided in a high contrast readable format. They are located on a bus route, and a defibrillator is located outside for added safety.

Staff are friendly and helpful and are dedicated to ensuring all visitors have a positive experience.

Key considerations:
Positive access: Concrete ramp, well lit interior, accessible restrooms.
Dietary needs: Vegan and gluten free options.
Safety: Defibrillator on site.
Service: Friendly and helpful staff.
Convenience: On bus route.

Visit The Saints Pub

Jack Print’s Artwork for The Saints Pub

A fresh start for the Robin Hood

Posted on February 11, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

Meet the Landlady Jackie

Find our why women still face workplace challenges, from Jackie, Sholing pub landlady, who was recently featured as part of our SO: Cultured column.

The Robin Hood pub has undergone a remarkable transformation since Jackie Murray took over in November 2022. Gemma, who works at the pub alongside her mother, has been at the heart of this change, and she shared her experiences of the journey. When Jackie initially took the reins, the pub faced a significant challenge: a less-than-stellar reputation. Issues with fights and underage drinking had plagued the venue, creating a negative perception within the community. For the first six months of the new ownership, Gemma managed the pub single-handedly while her mother was away. This period presented its own set of challenges, but it also allowed Gemma to lay the groundwork for what was to come. Upon her mother’s return, they worked together to address the pub’s tarnished image. Their strategy was simple but effective: word of mouth and a focus on attracting and retaining regular customers. They understood that building a loyal customer base was key to changing perceptions and creating a positive atmosphere. Beyond cultivating a welcoming environment, they also introduced a new element that proved to be a game-changer: live music events. These events quickly became a popular draw, injecting energy and excitement into the pub. The impact on revenue was dramatic. Live music nights boosted the pub’s takings from around £1,000 per night to an impressive £3,000. This substantial increase in revenue reflects the success of their efforts to revitalize the pub and attract a new clientele. Despite the challenges and the long hours, Gemma clearly enjoys the connection with the pub’s regulars. Building these relationships is an integral part of creating a thriving community hub. While she acknowledges the difficulties of managing a pub, the positive changes at the Robin Hood, from its improved reputation to its bustling live music nights, speak for themselves. And for those looking for a refreshing pint, the pub’s most popular beverage, Fosters.

Visiting The Robin Hood The Robin Hood offers a vibrant atmosphere with darts, pool, and multiple TVs showing sports, including those in the garden. While parking is limited to roadside options, and the garden has some uneven ground, the interior is well-lit and there is background music. We understand that access may require assistance due to steps at the entrances and split-level interior. Staff are committed to helping visitors, and encourage guests requiring assistance contact them in advance. An accessible toilet is available, however, it is worth checking this before a visit.

Key Considerations:

There are access barriers to this Pub, but the staff are very accommodating, especially if given prior notice.

Access to Toilet facilities may need to be checked.

The Pub does not serve food.

Visit The Robin Hood

Joe Ross’ Artwork for The Robin Hood

A Timeless Tale: The Red Lion Inn, Southampton

Posted on February 11, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

A History Steeped in Legend

Step inside and feel the weight of history. The pub’s cellars delve into the depths of time, dating back to the 12th century. Above, the timbered structure, though altered over the centuries, still bears the marks of its Tudor origins.

One of the most intriguing features is the “Henry V’s Court Room,” a beautifully timbered space. While the historical accuracy of this name is debated, it adds a touch of royal drama. Legend has it that this very room witnessed the trial of conspirators against King Henry V in 1415. Whether truth or myth, this story adds an air of intrigue and mystery to the pub’s atmosphere.

And the legends don’t stop there. Whispers of ghostly processions and sightings of a spectral barmaid, said to drift through the bar area, continue to pique the curiosity of locals and visitors alike.

A Gathering Place for All

The Red Lion has always been a hub for the community. Long-standing regulars, drawn to its history and the warm atmosphere, share stories alongside curious tourists seeking a glimpse into the past. Armed forces personnel, history buffs, and even intrepid ghost hunters have all found themselves drawn to this unique establishment.

Mukesh Sharma, the current owner, acquired the pub in 2022 with a vision to honour its past while embracing the future. He aims to maintain the pub’s traditional charm while attracting a new generation of patrons, ensuring its legacy continues to flourish.

A Modern Touch with Historical Roots

The Red Lion continues to be a popular spot for social gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions. Enjoy a traditional Sunday roast, savour unique dishes during themed dining nights, or simply relax with a pint in this historic setting.

But beyond the food and drink, it’s the unique blend of history and hospitality that truly sets the Red Lion apart. It’s a place where the past comes alive, where every corner whispers stories, and where every visit is a step back in time.

Visit The Red Lion Inn and experience a piece of Southampton’s vibrant past.

Visiting the Red Lion

The Red Lion is of one of Southampton’s oldest pubs, dating back to the 12th century, with its warm wooden timber decor and friendly, approachable staff. There is on-street parking with a blue badge bay, and two public car parks with blue badge bays within a 4-minute walk. There is outdoor seating at our picnic table, designed with wheelchair access at either end. The interior is well-lit and has movable tables. While the main entrance has a small lip and a tight corridor, there is an alternative door, available upon request to provide more direct access. The Food menu has homemade dishes using local produce, including a vegetarian course and daily specials. The venue is well lit, and background music is played, with volume increasing in the evenings and on weekends. There are internal levels with steps. The toilets are well-lit, but do not currently include designated accessible facilities. Key Considerations : Historic Charm: Good off-site Parking options: Outdoor Seating: Multiple Entrances: Possible limited internal access: Good Food Menu: Good friendly Staff:

Visit The Red Lion

Sarah Filmer’s Artwork for The Red Lion

From Graphics to Guinness: The Platform Tavern’s Transformation

Posted on February 11, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

Stewart Cross’s journey to owning The Platform Tavern is a story of passion and perseverance. He swapped the graphics trade for the pub business in 1997, initially entering into a partnership before eventually taking full ownership. The venue he took over was far from the thriving hub it is today. It was a run-down space, but Stewart had a vision.

That vision centred around creating a traditional pub atmosphere. For Stewart, this meant offering high-quality food at prices that wouldn’t break the bank, creating a welcoming space with a capacity of around 100 people, and, crucially, showcasing live music. The Platform Tavern has become synonymous with live music, particularly blues and R&B, attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers.

The road to success wasn’t without its bumps. Stewart faced significant financial hurdles. One particularly challenging moment involved a £371,000 bid to purchase the pub outright. He also weathered a dramatic rent increase, seeing his monthly payments jump from £330 to a staggering £3,000. These challenges tested his resolve, but Stewart remained committed to his vision.

Today, The Platform Tavern is a symbol of Stewart’s dedication. Live music is at the heart of the pub’s identity, with an impressive 80% of the bands featured being local talent. This commitment to supporting the local music scene has solidified the pub’s place within the community. The Platform Tavern’s cultural significance has also been recognized through its selection for this Pub Culture project, further cementing its status as a vital part of Southampton’s social fabric. It stands as a symbol of what can be achieved with passion, resilience, and a clear vision for creating a community hub.

Visiting The Platform Tavern
There is a warm and welcoming atmosphere at The Platform Tavern, featuring a central fireplace and friendly staff.

There is a Food menu with vegetarian and vegan options, presented with clear, dark-on-yellow font, and daily specials on a blackboard.

A public car park with blue badge bays is just a 5-minute walk away.

During warmer months, outdoor seating is available.

Access to the venue is provided via a flat rear entrance with an outward-opening door.

There is low background music, though noise levels may increase during Live Music Nights.

The interior features an uneven floor, and lighting is low due to the venue’s decor.

An accessible toilet is available, accessed via a steep ramp, but has limited interior space.

Key Considerations:
No onsite Parking:
Accessible Toilet: The statement is honest about the limitations of the accessible toilet, including the steep ramp, tight space, and inward-opening door.
Lighting and Noise: Could be noisy on busy evenings.
Good Food Options.
Positive Atmosphere: A warm pub with friendly staff, and a pleasant smell!

Visit The Platform Tavern

Tom Stewart’s Artwork for The Platform Tavern

The Joiners: 27 Years of Music and Community

Posted on February 11, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

Pat Muldowney has been at the helm of The Joiners for an impressive 27 years, demonstration of his dedication and passion for live music. Since he took over, the venue has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from a traditional pub into the renowned music venue it is today. This journey, however, has not been without its challenges.

Pat openly discussed the difficulties The Joiners has faced over the years. One of the most significant hurdles was in 2012, when the venue came perilously close to bankruptcy. Navigating these financial straits required resilience and a deep commitment to the venue’s survival. More recently, the 2020 lockdown presented another major threat, impacting the entire live music industry. These experiences have shaped Pat’s approach to running The Joiners and have reinforced the importance of community support.

Despite these challenges, The Joiners continues to thrive. The venue hosts approximately 200 live music events each year, providing a platform for a diverse range of artists and genres. With a capacity of between 100 and 200 people, The Joiners provides an intimate and engaging experience for music lovers.

For Pat, creating a welcoming atmosphere is paramount. He emphasizes the importance of making The Joiners a safe and inclusive space, particularly for young patrons who may be struggling with mental health issues. He understands that music can be a powerful force for connection and support, and he strives to create an environment where everyone feels welcome.

Looking to the future, Pat mentioned the possibility of an art project to enhance the venue’s exterior, further adding to its unique character. The Joiners also actively collaborates with other local venues, recognizing the importance of a strong and supportive local music scene. This collaborative spirit, combined with the diverse range of music showcased at the venue, ensures that The Joiners remains a vital part of the community and a place where music lovers can discover new sounds and connect with others.

Visiting The Joiners
There is a vibrant atmosphere at the historic Joiners music venue, with friendly and approachable staff.

There is a small car park with blue badge bays, a 3-minute walk away. Roadside parking is limited, and there are double yellow lines around the venue.

Level access is via a ramped entrance on the right side, leading directly into the performance area. Within the performance area, an accessible hatch allows for ordering drinks and snacks. The performance area is lit with floodlights, while the bar area is well-lit. There is a large step at the front entrance and a step down to the bar from the performance area.

Key Considerations:
No on-site Parking:
Limited Ramped Entrance:
Lighting: The venue is a Music venue so lighting conditions change.
No accessible Toilets:
No Food:

Visit The Joiners

Jack Print’s Artwork for The Joiners

Polo Market – A Community Cornerstone with Mr Perot

Posted on February 4, 2025 by Andy Sheppard -

Polo Market – A Community Cornerstone with Mr Perot

Polo Market, a Polish shop nestled in a vibrant community, has been a staple for nearly a decade. Owned and managed by Mr Perot, the store has become known not just for its diverse range of products but also for its sense of community and friendly atmosphere. For Mr Perot, the shop is more than a business—it’s a place where people from various backgrounds come together, share experiences, and form lasting relationships.

A Busy Shop with Seasonal Rhythm
Mr Perot has been at the helm of Polo Market for the past nine years, and his experience in managing the store has given him deep insight into the ebb and flow of retail. He shared, “It’s a bit hard sometimes, but it’s easier other times. Usually, the summer is very busy because people just want to buy quick things, like drinks, and head to the park or somewhere to relax. Christmas is also a busy time, with lots of things to prepare, like ordering stock from Poland. There’s always something to do.”

Despite the challenges, he enjoys the work, saying, “I’ve been here nine years, and I don’t really want to change. I’m happy with my work.”

Adapting Through Changes
Originally a small Indian shop, Polo Market transitioned into a Polish store years ago, and this transformation has shaped the shop’s identity. Mr Perot explained. “Before, like 10-15 years ago, it was a small Indian shop. Then it changed to a Polish shop”

The shop has also adapted over the years in response to external challenges, such as the pandemic. Mr Perot reflected, “COVID was very different. At the start of the pandemic, it was crazy. Customers wanted to buy everything, and sometimes we ran out of stock. The shelves were empty. But after that, things came back to normal.”

Community Connections
Though Polo Market is known for its Polish products, the store’s customer base is much more diverse. “It’s a Polish shop, but now we have a lot of Romanian customers and even English customers,” said Mr Perot. “They really like our fresh meat, like sausage and ham. We have so many types, and they’re always surprised at how nice they are. They come back, which is great for us.”

He noted that his customers often ask for cooking ideas and recipes. “Sometimes they ask, ‘Maybe you can give me some ideas for dinner.’ It’s really nice to see them interested in our culture and food,” he said. Polo Market isn’t just about products; it’s about sharing and building connections. “We have friendly communication with everyone around here, English people, Portuguese people. It’s nice.”

Watching the Community Grow
Over the years, Mr Perot has witnessed the children of his customers grow up and become regulars in the shop. “I can see the difference, you know. Sometimes I see kids who were small before, and now they’re bigger and come in alone to shop. It’s really nice,” he said, his pride evident in his voice.

A Place Where People Feel at Home
Despite the ups and downs of the retail world, Mr Perot’s dedication to his customers and his work shines through. “I’m happy with my work,” he said. “I’ve been here nine years, and I don’t really want to change. It’s nice to see the community growing and becoming more connected.”

For Mr Perot, Polo Market isn’t just a shop—it’s a place where people can find quality products, discover new things, and feel like part of something bigger. His story is a testament to the enduring importance of local businesses in fostering community spirit and connection.