Thatchers, Portsmouth

A pub by the name of the Thatched House existed on this site for around 150 years. Originally a two bar local, in 2002 the house received a major refit, including a new frontage and new name, Thatcher's. This is a good example of how a comprehensive refurbishment can modernise a pub without destroying its previous appeal or character. Now effectively a single open-plan area, the pub is still separated into three distinct areas, with a floorboarded room at the front of house and a large, comfortable lounge at the rear, which in turn is divided into an upholstered seating area opposite the bar counter and a raised, traditionally furnished, area in the rear extension, which may be used by both drinkers and diners. A patio garden runs down the right side of the pub. A choice of up to six cask conditioned ales sourced from both local microbreweries and national producers is offered. Live entertainment is now hosted on weekend evenings and there is an open mic night on Mondays. A pub quiz is held on the second Wednesday of the month and a meat raffle is drawn on Fridays. The pub is decorated with old metal advertisements and photographs of entertainers, including a collection of Laurel and Hardy memorabilia at the very rear of the pub, by the fish tank. A statue of Elvis Presley stands in the front bar.