Branksome Craft House is a craft beer pub and kitchen on Commercial Road, a few minutes' walk inland from West Cliff and the town centre. Before you have ordered anything, the building is the attraction: a Grade II listed former pub from around 1905, with the original green glazed tiles still on the frontage along with an Eldridge Pope crest left over from its brewing past. Over the years it has gone by several names, most recently Brewhouse & Kitchen, before becoming part of the Crafthouse Pubs group.
What to eat and drink
The kitchen goes for simple food that pleases a crowd: smash burgers, crunchy fried chicken and dirty waffle fries form the backbone of the menu, supported by a changing selection of craft beers, small-batch spirits and curated cocktails. Brunch is served every day, and on Mondays there is a smash burger, fries and pint offer. An allergen menu is available for those with dietary requirements, and with happy-hour pints and 2-for-£15 cocktails on most days of the week, this is casual, good-value eating rather than anything formal.
The space
The pub is laid out over two floors, so there is room to spread out, and a beer garden comes into its own in warmer weather. With Sky Sports and TNT Sports on the screens it is an obvious place to watch a match, and a function room at the rear, complete with its own bar and sound system, is available for private hire and parties of up to around 60.
Good to know
Opening hours and food service differ from day to day, with later closing on Friday and Saturday nights, so confirm current times on the venue's website before you head over, especially when events are on. Our food & drink guide has more places to eat and drink in the area, and our things to do guide covers what else is happening nearby.