The Sally Port Inn: the famous bar that gave birth to the adventures of James Bond

The Sally Port Inn: the famous bar that gave birth to the adventures of James Bond

April 11, 2025

In the heart of old Portsmouth, just off the seafront, hides a place that changed the face of spy literature forever. The Sally Port Inn, an outwardly inconspicuous pub with a rich history, became the cradle of one of pop culture's most iconic characters - James Bond. It was here, in an atmosphere steeped in nautical tales and the smell of rum, that the idea for the creation of Agent 007 was born.Today, The Sally Port Inn is not only a witness to history, but also a living place where the past meets the present, offering guests an unforgettable experience.

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History and atmosphere of The Sally Port Inn

The Sally Port Inn, located at 57-58 High St in Portsmouth, is a place that breathes history. With roots deep in the past, the pub has retained its original character while evolving to meet the expectations of today's guests. Stepping inside, you can immediately feel the atmosphere that may have inspired Ian Fleming to create the character of James Bond.

The interior of the pub is a fascinating mix of styles, where elements of Portsmouth's nautical heritage are intertwined with elegant touches, reminiscent of Agent 007's refined taste. The walls are adorned with historical photos and naval memorabilia, creating a unique atmosphere that takes guests back to the days when the legend of Bond was born.

One of the most distinctive features of The Sally Port Inn is its impressive rum collection, considered one of the largest in the world. This extensive offering not only draws on Portsmouth's maritime traditions, but also fits perfectly with the image of James Bond - a lover of sophisticated liquors. Guests have the opportunity to taste rare and exotic types of rum, which is quite a treat for connoisseurs.

What's more, The Sally Port Inn is not only a pub, but also an extraordinary antique store. The upper floors of the building are home to @sallyantiques, a huge store occupying more than three floors, filled with thousands of original antiques from various eras. This fascinating collection adds extra charm to the place and makes a visit here a trip back in time.

Culinary and alcoholic experience in Bond style

The Sally Port Inn is famous not only for its historical significance, but especially for its extraordinary culinary and bar offerings, which attract both locals and tourists from all over the world. The heart of the pub's offerings are undoubtedly the cocktails, which could satisfy even a fussy connoisseur like James Bond himself.

The cocktail menu at The Sally Port Inn is a veritable book of alcoholic inspiration. Each drink, priced at £10 (as of 2023), is a small work of art. Like alchemists, the bartenders create drinks that not only taste delicious, but are also stunning in appearance. The use of fresh ingredients, generous portions of alcohol and extraordinary attention to detail make each cocktail an unforgettable experience.

Of particular note is the way the drinks are served. The glasses are carefully chilled before use, ensuring that the drink remains at the perfect temperature for an extended period of time. Cocktail decorations are a separate category of art - edible flowers, gold accents and other decorations make some drinks look almost too beautiful to drink.

For those who prefer classic drinks, The Sally Port Inn offers an excellent selection of beers and wines. Particularly recommended is Guinness, which guests say is served here at its best.

As for the food, although The Sally Port Inn is not a restaurant in the full sense of the word, it offers light snacks that pair perfectly with drinks. What's more, owner Mark often spoils guests by serving free rolls and snacks, which adds a homely, welcoming touch to the visit.

Worth mentioning is the exceptional service that is an integral part of the experience at The Sally Port Inn. The staff, known for their professionalism and friendliness, offer advice on liquor choices and are eager to share stories related to the pub and its famous guest Ian Fleming.

Modern The Sally Port Inn - a a place for everyone

The Sally Port Inn, despite its rich history and exclusive nature, remains an open and welcoming place for a wide range of guests. The pub successfully combines elements of an upscale bar with the atmosphere of a typical English pub, creating a unique place where everyone can feel at ease.

One of the most appreciated features of The Sally Port Inn is its pet-friendly attitude. Guests can come here with their four-legged friends, which is rare for bars of such high standards. This policy makes the pub an ideal place to relax after a walk along the nearby coast.

The location of The Sally Port Inn is another asset. Located in the heart of old Portsmouth, just steps from the sea, the pub is the perfect starting point for exploring the historic corners of the city. After a visit to The Sally Port Inn, take a stroll along the waterfront, visit nearby museums or simply feast your eyes on the English Channel.

The atmosphere at The Sally Port Inn is often described by guests as unique. Although it is a pub open to the public, many visitors compare it to a private club - without the pretentiousness, but with a high level of service and quality of products offered.

The events held at The Sally Port Inn are worth noting. The pub often hosts local artists, musicians and even illusionists, which adds to the evening visits. These events can make each visit a new and exciting experience.

All in all, The Sally Port Inn is much more than an ordinary pub or bar. It is a place where history meets modernity, where literature mixes with reality, and where an ordinary evening can turn into an unforgettable adventure. Whether you are a James Bond fan, a lover of fine alcohol, or just looking for a unique place to spend an evening, The Sally Port Inn is sure to meet your expectations. It's not just a spot on the map of Portsmouth - it's a true institution that continues the tradition of hospitality while writing its own fascinating history.

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