The Old Customs House

If naval history floats your boat, then you're guaranteed to enjoy dining at The Old Customs House, a Grade I listed naval building situated beside the water at Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth. Separate dining rooms are named after their original uses, such as the signal and chart rooms, and maritime memorabilia is scattered throughout. The restaurant offers a diverse menu created using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, as well as fresh daily specials. So it was under the watchful eyes of a painted Nelson that I indulged in smoked mackerel paté with pea shoots, lemon oil and ciabatta soldiers, followed by cod battered in Fuller's famous Frontier lager with enormous house chips, mushy peas and tartare sauce, rounded off by lemon creme brulée served with fruit compote. With an extensive food offering, including a fantastic Sunday roast, and a lovely waterside terrace, The Old Customs House is a fantastic spot