The Sir Alec Rose - JD Wetherspoon

You'll find this massive Spoons right on the waterfront at Baffins, and while it's definitely got that chain pub vibe, the location does most of the heavy lifting. The terrace overlooking Portsmouth Harbour is where you want to be on a decent day, nursing a pint and watching the ferry traffic. Inside, it's the usual Wetherspoons formula – sticky carpets, fruit machines, and that particular smell of chip fat and cleaning products. The food's exactly what you'd expect: decent enough fish and chips, curry club on Thursdays, and breakfasts that'll sort you right out after a heavy night. It's not going to win any awards, but when you want a cheap pint and a reliable meal without the city centre chaos, it does the job. The staff are sound and service is surprisingly quick considering how busy it gets with families and harbour workers.