Spice Island Inn, Portsmouth

Conceived in 1991 as the result of a union between the Lone Yachtsman and the Coal Exchange, the Spice Island Inn was the brainchild of Whitbread marketing men who saw fit to convert the pub into one large, modern hostelry. The building is nevertheless Grade II listed. Its prominent location on the waterfront ensures that it still receives a good patronage, especially in the summer months when tourists and locals flock to the area. Now owned by Suffolk brewer Greene King, the pub has a predominance of exposed wood throughout its large floorspace. The ground floor of the pub consists of two or three separate drinking areas, with the largest of these surrounding the bar counter. The house is furnished with traditional tables and chairs, plus a number of upholstered bench seats. A central staircase leads to another large first floor area which may be hired for private functions, as well as being open to the public at busier times. There are original fireplaces in both bar areas. Maritime photographs and prints of bygone Portsmouth adorn the half-boarded walls. Piped music is played and there are gaming machines and an ATM available (withdrawal charges apply). An outside seating area proves very popular in warm weather, providing excellent views northward and westward across Portsmouth Harbour to Portsdown Hill.