Castle In The Air, Fareham

  

This is a homely locals pub serving four cask beers - two Greene King plus Tribute and Timothy Taylors Landlord. Being a Greene King pub the food is edible but unexciting, and not geared toward vegans or healthy eating. Chips and meat is the main emphasis. The core menu is exactly the same in all Greene King pubs, though the price will be higher in the more upmarket Green King brands, such as Chef & Brewer, and lower in the Local Pubs and Hungry Horse brands. The Castle In The Air is a Local Pubs brand.  

It is a popular pub, and was full on our visit. There's a nice buzz about the place. It is warm  and comforting, and the other customers are laid back and friendly, and it's easy to get into a conversation when ordering at the bar. The pub is vibrant, and positive, with quiz nights and live bands.  

Downsides are that on our visit the front staff (two women) were clearly stressed having to cope with the number of customers. Serving the meals while simultaneously being at the bar to take orders was a trick that was beyond just two people on a busy lunch day, and management should have at least a third person at lunchtimes. The men's toilet is in a poor state and needs refurbishment.  Those quibbles aside, this is a cracking pub I'd love to have as my local.  

Date: Dec 2011   Score: 8 

Greene King pubs