The Best Pubs
in
Winchester

Tucked away on a quiet back street, this proper boozer is a treasure trove of curiosities, with taxidermy, vintage signs, and a ceiling covered in reclaimed doors waiting to be discovered in its warren of rooms. You can settle in by the log fire, grab a board game from the cupboard, or head to the sheltered garden where a pizza shed fires up creations on weekends. With four rotating local cask ales, a solid selection of wines and spirits, and a welcoming policy for dogs, it’s the kind of place where you can easily lose an afternoon. The friendly, unpretentious vibe and reasonable prices make it a true local gem.

Step into the St. James Tavern, a wonderfully cosy local that has been welcoming guests since 1859, now serving up delicious food, cask ales, and a cracking selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Whether you’re settling in for Pie Night on Wednesdays, joining the Tuesday quiz, or tapping your foot to monthly jazz and blues, there’s always something to enjoy in its historic, reimagined rooms. The courtyard is perfect for sunny afternoons with a drink and a book, and your furry friends are just as welcome as you are. With a free house status offering local brews and an upstairs dining room for special gatherings, this is a place you’ll want to return to again and again.

With its own microbrewery bubbling away right in the bar, this welcoming local serves up a fantastic range of beers alongside wine, cocktails, and delicious home cooked food from a kitchen that covers everything from light snacks to hearty Sunday roasts. The flower filled garden is a wonderful spot to enjoy a pint outdoors, while the regular live music and dog friendly policy make it a true hub for groups and solo visitors alike. Whether you’re grabbing a takeaway container of their signature brew or settling in for a long lunch, this is a pub that genuinely has it all.

Pull up a chair at The Golden Lion, a wonderfully cosy pub where warmth and charm are always on tap alongside award winning ales, an extensive wine list, and delicious freshly cooked food. Whether you’re sinking into a juicy homemade burger, sharing a baked camembert with friends, or bringing the whole group (including your four legged pal) to enjoy the outdoor seating, this place is a true gem. With a fantastic selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal or a lively get together without breaking the bank.

Head to The Cricketers Inn for a cracking mix of pub classics and elevated dishes that will leave you planning your next visit before you've even left. This dog friendly spot is perfect for groups, whether you're catching the match on the screens or settling in for a leisurely meal with a pint, a glass of wine, or a expertly mixed cocktail. The friendly team and top notch food make it a genuine hidden gem, and the added bonus of a place to park up with your motorhome makes it an absolute winner for a memorable evening. You'll be hard pressed to find a more welcoming spot to while away the hours with great beer and fantastic company.

For the ultimate blend of Irish craic and live sport, O’Neill’s is the place to be in the heart of town. Whether you’re sinking into a gourmet burger with a cold pint, belting out tunes at a weekend party, or catching every World Cup goal on their massive screens, this spot delivers big energy without the hefty price tag. Your four legged mate is welcome too, so grab a spot on the outdoor seating or snag a booth to watch the match with your crew. With cocktails, wine, and plenty of beer flowing, it’s the perfect launchpad for a legendary night or a lazy Sunday session.

Perfectly wedged between a towering cathedral and a centuries old college, this luxurious country pub is a true gem for any occasion. You can settle into its cosy nooks with a perfectly kept pint of cask ale, a glass from their extensive wine list, or a cocktail, all while surrounded by fascinating historic memorabilia. The menu is a seasonal celebration of locally sourced ingredients, earning it two coveted AA Rosettes for 13 consecutive years, and the outdoor garden is a wonderful spot for groups and their four legged friends to gather.

Welcome to The King Alfred, a wonderfully cosy pub where freshly cooked classics, local ales, and an intriguing wine list are served with genuine warmth. Our beautiful, spacious garden and charming marquee offer plenty of room for groups and their four legged friends to relax, while the newly refurbished play area keeps the little ones entertained. We’re passionate about supporting other small local suppliers, so every pint and plate helps the community thrive. Whether you’re here for a lively quiz night, a pottery painting session, or simply a quiet corner with a cocktail, this is a place you’ll want to return to again and again.

Just seven minutes from the heart of the city, The Plough Inn is a gorgeous countryside pub brimming with character and charm, the perfect place to unwind after a scenic walk. They serve up freshly sourced, home cooked comfort food alongside a cracking selection of local ales, craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The garden and children’s play area make it a favourite for families, and dogs are welcomed with open arms everywhere, inside and out. With live music adding to the buzz and delightfully over the top Christmas decorations, this is a wonderfully warm and welcoming spot for any occasion.

The Cart & Horses is a vibrant country pub on the edge of the South Downs, where you can settle into the gorgeous pergola garden with a cocktail or a pint no matter the season. Their menu is packed with incredible options, from a standout Sunday roast with unlimited gravy to a fantastic spring steak selection and brilliant happy hour deals on pizza and Prosecco. It’s a wonderfully dog friendly spot with live music, a warm and welcoming team, and a setting that’s absolutely perfect for everything from a relaxed family lunch to a celebratory gathering.