Here are 10 of the best pubs in Portsmouth to try when they reopen from 4 July

Pubs and restaurants will be able to reopen from this weekend, after the government announced last month that there would be further easing of lockdown on 4 July.

It’s a long awaited moment for many who enjoy a drink, but going to the pub doesn’t come without its risk in the age of coronavirus.

Social distancing measures will be in place, and your local may not look the same as it once did with protective screens in place, one-way systems and hand sanitising stations installed.

Boris Johnson has urged the public not to ‘blow it now’ by not behaving safely and abiding by social distancing rules when the restrictions are eased for pubs, bars and restaurants.

If you’re unsure about what is expected of you on your visit, check with your local’s website and social media feeds.

Here are 10 of the best pubs to try out when they reopen this weekend:

The Florence Arms

The Florence Arms have been working hard to ensure that the pub is as safe an environment as they can provide, and ask for patience and respect for the new rules as “we all help each other through”.

18-20 Florence Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 2NE

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The Royal Albert

The Royal Albert is reopening its doors on Saturday, but at the time of writing, its tables appear to be fully booked until at least the Sunday. They’ll only be opening for breakfast to begin with, with reservations available between 9 and 11.15am.

115 Albert Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 2SQ

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The Bridge Tavern

The Bridge Tavern is “ready, waiting and excited” to welcome back customers on 4 July for its reopening.

54 East St, Old Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2JJ

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The Prince of Wales

Demand is high for The Prince of Wales in Havant, who have already reached the limited of space afforded them by social distancing for the weekend. But, they “hope to see you all in the future”.

164 West St, Havant PO9 1LR

Website

The Dolphin

Bookings are recommended for the first weekend and will be in 90-minute sessions. Maximum bookings are six guests, and only two households per group.

41 High St, Old Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2LU

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Eldon Arms

The Eldon Arms has spent the time between Johnson’s announcement that pubs may reopen and now making sure the pub is “a safe space by meticulously following the Government guidelines.” Booking is recommended, as the pub can only accommodate parties up to a maximum size of six.

11-17 Eldon St, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 4BS

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The Wellington

The Wellington reopens on 4 July, though their kitchen won’t be open for food until the following weekend. “Please message us to book in for one of our famous roasts!”

62 High St, Old Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2LY

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Cuckoo Pint

Cuckoo Pint reopens its doors on Monday 6 July with revised opening hours between 11am – 10pm, except on opening day, when things will wrap up at 4.30pm.

120 Cuckoo Ln, Stubbington, Fareham PO14 3QP

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The Still & West

The Still & West will “finally” reopen their doors on 4 July for that long-awaited #FirstPint, but as they're anticipating high levels of demand, you will be required to book online ahead of your visit.

Bath Square, Old Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2JL

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The Lawrence Arms

The Lawrence Opens up with restricted hours, and tables available to book in one hour slots up to a maximum time of six hours.

63 Lawrence Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 1NU

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