© OpenStreetMap contributors

The Butcher’s Hook is a tiny new pub in the Bitterne Triangle, opposite the clock tower. Just go on down St Denys Road from Portswood, cross the river, and it’s directly ahead. The building was originally a butchers, and most recently a flower shop. The beer is varied and good, served straight from the barrel. It attracts a younger clientèle than the Guide Dog, and is always full.

If you actually want a butchers, the posh one around is Uptons of Bassett,  in the opposite direction from the university.

The pub was opened by a young team who we watched spend several months renovating and converting the old shop themselves. At one stage, I was even asked about doing some electrical work; I couldn’t, as I don’t carry the right insurance. There is a University (ECS) connection as they are old friends of Rob Spanton, of Student Robotics fame.

To make a day of it, you can come in for a couple of pints after a walk along the River Itchen (from Winchester if you are fit); just continue on south from Woodmill through Riverside Park until you reach the bridge.

Denis Nicole