Remote working in Southsea: Southsea Spirit

May 30th, 2024

In a new series, I’m going to be highlighting some of the best places for remote working in Southsea. Perhaps there are places you had no idea existed, or maybe you’ve walked past and wondered if they welcome remote workers. So, I’ve taken it upon myself to do the research for you (and sample some lovely food and drink along the way).

First up in the series is:

Southsea Spirit – a community focused bar.

Based in the heart of Albert Road, Southsea Spirit took over the former home of Beer Musketeer (opposite the Wedgewood Rooms). They opened the bar in August 2023, having already been distilling their very own Southsea Spirit Tropical gin, which you may have seen on sale around Portsmouth. They won Best Bar in Hampshire at the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2024, and we could see why.

After I’d enjoyed an evening there a few weeks ago, I discovered from the owners—energetic and enthusiastic sisters Harriet and Charlotte—that they very much welcomed freelancers and remote workers who wanted to find a friendly spot to work during the day.

I invited my friend and fellow freelancer Charlotte Simonsen to join me for an afternoon of remote working to sample this charming bar’s delights!

Me with Charlotte Simonsen (fellow freelancer) sampling a suggested wine

A wall of instagram photos from various events at the bar over the last few months — Me with Charlotte Simonsen (fellow freelancer) sampling a suggested wine

How is it for remote working?

There’s enough room to seat 26 people throughout the bar or 40 standing. Don’t be fooled by the cozy appearance when you first walk in, as there is a whole other room at the back with more seating, ready for you to set up your laptop for work!

The back room of the bar showing an industrial style with co-working themed posters on the wall, and bench seating with cushions — Back room of Southsea Spirit

There were plug sockets throughout, and the WiFi was decent.

You can also book a table directly on their website to secure your spot, which a lot of bars and cafes don’t offer.

What kind of food/drink do they serve?

Drinks-wise, you can expect a good selection of drinks such as coffee from local coffee roasters Broadway Coffee, tea, soft drinks, wines, craft beers, and cocktails. Charlotte and I tried a delicious white wine at the owner’s recommendation and discovered it was happy hour for margaritas at that time.

At the moment, they don’t serve food, but after a chat with Harriet, we learned that you are welcome to bring your own lunch!

However they do have some exciting food options coming up—pretty soon customers will be able to eat some local take out spots at Southsea Spirit on selected days.

In the true spirit of keeping it local, behind the bar you can also buy Southsea Chilli & Spice hot sauces, as well as Spikes Comics.

What’s the vibe?

Vibrant but relaxed are the words I’d use to describe it. The tunes were good and played at just the right level to keep us energised, but not so loud that we couldn’t have a conversation. It had a great atmosphere and was cosy with a tropical-cum-industrial decor. The best thing about this place is the staff; they strive to ensure everyone has a good time and feels comfortable. We had only visited once before but were instantly recognized and welcomed back!

Halfway through our remote working session, Charlotte (the owner, Charlotte, that is—this is getting confusing!) came out and asked if we would like a delicious donut, to which we obviously could not resist!

Wine, donuts and laptops - remote working at Southsea Spirit — Free donuts!

Sipping our margaritas at the front of the bar, with the doors open and the sun shining, we felt like we could be on holiday at one of those hidden gem bars that only the locals know about. A perfect way to end a working day.

Happy hour Margarita's £6 — Happy hour Margarita’s – £6 all day Thursday!

In summary

After talking to Harriet and Charlotte, even for a short while, it’s clear the passion they have for freelancers and local businesses. Harriet herself comes from a freelance background and is eager to support other freelancers and local businesses. She is brimming with enthusiasm and ideas for how to make our community a better place.

The two sisters couldn’t be more passionate about the community and vibe they are cultivating at Southsea Spirit. It is a bar well named.