OpenGinali's
87 High St, Poole BH15 1AH, United Kingdom
Welcome to The Portsmouth Hoy
The Portsmouth Hoy is a charming 250-year-old pub located on Poole Quay, steeped in rich maritime history. This cozy spot welcomes locals and tourists alike with open arms, offering a unique atmosphere characterized by its rustic interior and warm ambiance. Popular for casual dining and vibrant social gatherings, the pub features a comprehensive selection of beverages, ranging from craft beers to an extensive wine list. Guests can choose between outdoor seating for those sunny days or a cozy indoor space adorned with quaint maritime decor. Ideal for relaxing evenings or a quick bite, The Portsmouth Hoy captures the essence of a traditional pub while serving crowd-pleasing dishes, such as their famous mussels and fish and chips.
Nestled on the picturesque Poole Quay, The Portsmouth Hoy is a historic pub with over 250 years of maritime heritage. With its cosy and casual atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for solo diners and groups alike. Enjoy a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood delights, including signature mussels and traditional fish and chips, complemented by a carefully curated selection of beers and wines. Whether you choose to dine indoors or on the outdoor terrace, The Portsmouth Hoy offers excellent service, wheelchair accessibility, and reservations. Join us for a memorable meal in a charming ambience that celebrates local history and vibrant flavours.Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Outdoor seating
Dine-in
Delivery
Takeaway
Highlights
Great beer selection
Great wine list
Popular for
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Food
Food at bar
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Seating
Table service
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Patrons love the outstanding selection of beers and wines, with many praising the knowledgeable staff who are happy to offer recommendations based on individual tastes.
One dish that continuously garners rave reviews is the fresh steamed mussels, often described as a must-try for any visitor. Guests also highlight the welcoming atmosphere, with many noting the attentive service that makes one feel at home right away. Many visitors appreciate the pub's quaint interior, filled with maritime artifacts that tell the story of its historical significance. Finally, the outdoor seating area is frequently mentioned as a delightful space to enjoy a drink in good weather.
Most Disliked
Some guests have mentioned that the pub can get quite busy, especially on weekends, which may lead to a wait for service or food. A few visitors noted that on busier nights, it can feel a bit cramped, particularly during peak dining hours, which some might find off-putting.
There are also occasional complaints regarding the selection of non-alcoholic beverages, with some patrons wishing for more variety in soft drink options. Lastly, while the historical ambiance is charming, a small number of reviews mention that some areas lack modern touches, which may deter those seeking a more contemporary pub experience. Overall, the minor issues do not overshadow the positive aspects this delightful pub offers.
User Reviews
LR
Louie R.
We arrived at 7:30 on a monday and as soon as we got there we was made to feel at home. The new chef came out and recommended the muscles. Which were UNBELIEVABLE. My partner also had steak and ale pie and that was just as nice. The bar staff sat us near the fire as we were on a date and kept it going for us, even bringing us mood lighting and checking up on us throughout the meal. The guy behind the bar was really friendly and allowed me to try a couple of the beers/ciders before buying. And the music was on point and the fire was perfect. We will DEFINITELY be back! Thanks for making a moody monday the perfect evening. :)
TP
Tina P.
What an absolute gem of a place, stumbled across by chance but what a find. Superb ambience and welcome. Brilliant interior with so much to look at! Food looked amazing but we didn't eat. A proper pub, with log burner, relaxed seating and nooks and crannies everywhere. Live entertainment as well which was a brilliant bonus!
MC
Mihaela C.
Love it. If you're gluten free person that's the place. A lovely young lady served us, chill atmosphere, good food, very nice wine.
HC
Helen C.
Random day out resulted in stopping by for a quick drink which resulted in food being ordered too! Lovely staff (guy with beard who’s only started working there a week ago was extra lovely). Thank you for helping us make memories you didn’t know we needed. Really lovely atmosphere. Food was great and not long to wait either.
JH
Jason H.
Lovely pint of Tangle Foot in nice surroundings. Great staff, nice clientele, although I didn't eat there it was nicely busy with people doing so and the food looked great .. and as a couple of bonuses for me as someone just calling in for a drink, there were seats available and the pub didn't smell of food (something I dislike) All good!
AL
Andrew L.
Great pub. Even better as no kids allowed! Great selection of ales and wines, all served in what looks like the inside of an old galleon. Only minor gripe is the couple of blokes who sit at the bar, cutting the service area in two. I don't know them, but one has a REALLY bad looking tupee... nearly put me off my lovely cheese chips!
MB
Mike B.
Just about as good as fish and chips gets on Poole quay. Washed down with a pint of cruz campo. What else do you need.
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
The Portsmouth Hoy is famous for its rich maritime history and cosy atmosphere. Known for great beer and a great wine list, this pub offers a welcoming vibe, especially popular for solo dining.
A visit isn’t complete without trying the mussels, which are highly recommended by the chef. The battered cod with chips and the steak and ale pie also receive rave reviews from diners.
The Portsmouth Hoy features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilet, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the historic charm and delicious offerings.
Patrons can choose between dine-in and outdoor seating options. The pub accepts reservations and offers table service, allowing for a relaxed dining experience.
Why visit The Portsmouth Hoy
Visiting The Portsmouth Hoy is more than just a meal; it’s about embracing a piece of history while enjoying fantastic food and drinks. Opt for a visit on a weekday afternoon for a quieter experience, which will allow time to soak in the surroundings. Don't forget to try the mussels—they're a crowd favorite for a reason! For those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, weekends often feature live entertainment, making it a great outing for friends. Reservations are recommended during peak times to avoid disappointment, especially on busy Saturdays when the pub reaches full capacity.
Take a moment to chat with the friendly staff; they often have insights and recommendations that enhance the overall experience. On a sunny day, grab a table outside, sip on a refreshing drink, and revel in the picturesque views of Poole Quay. The Portsmouth Hoy is truly a gem that promises memorable moments whether you're a local or just passing through.
