The House

Walk down a tiny passage off the High Street and at the end is The House. Arranged over two floors it's a fairly modern, minimalistic lounge with some classic French stylistic touches. Don't be fooled by the logo, this is nothing to do with the Soho House Group, this particular 'House' is in fact named after the nickname for Christchurch college next door.

The decor is slick and smart - think gilt-edged mirrors, chandeliers and framed prints on the walls. On the ground floor, there's a curvy leather sofa running down one wall, small wooden coffee tables dotted along the other side and a handsome wooden bar at the end of the room. Upstairs is a pool table and board games.

The drinks list divides cocktails into sparkling, martini and rocks, classics, slings and collins, sours, tiki and virgins. There are a few horrific-sounding creamy drinks that are heavy on liqueurs but there's a 'top shelf' section made with premium spirits where you'll find unadulterated classics. We found the drinks fine if not memorable, and service could definitely be friendlier.