IT'S Southampton's original micropub with space for just 40 drinkers to enjoy its craft beer from all over the world and community feel.

The Butcher's Hook Alehouse, a 30 sq ft venue at Bitterne Triangle, will celebrate a decade of drinking early next year. 

Owner Anthony Nicholls was a graphic designer and beer lover when he decided to open a micropub at Bitterne Triangle, close to his home. He handed his notice in just a month after opening and has been at the helm of the pub ever since. 

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The building, originally a butchers, but also previously used as a picture framing shop and florist, opened as a pub following a refurbishment in February 2014 and hasn't looked back. 

It's now surrounded by a number of independent businesses, including eateries, cafes and coffee shops, a cycle shop, Bitterne Stores and the haberdashery. 

Locals and visitors love to sample the ever-changing selection of the freshest and highest rated craft beer locally, from around the UK and beyond. 

Daily Echo: Outside The Butcher's Hook Alehouse

Regular theme nights, showcasing beers from countries including America, Spain, Belgium and Sweden, prove very popular and drinkers love making new friends at the communal tables. 

Anthony said: "We always have a really, really good atmosphere here. Our smallest tables are for six and the big front window table fits about 12 and it's rare you get groups of that size, so you end up next to someone you don't know and get talking. People come in here because they like beer, so that's normally a good starting point."

The annual Lord of the Pies Siren tap takeover and pie making competition is fiercely but fairly fought by staff members and regulars and a real highlight of the year. 

Daily Echo: Serving up a craft beer at The Butcher's Hook Alehouse

There's also participation in TriFest, pop ups at places like The Arches Open Studios and occasional live music or private parties.

For their fifth birthday, The Butcher's Hook collaborated with five breweries. As double digits approaches, their first beer is being brewed.

It's not just craft beer, customers can also enjoy wine, Prosecco, gins, rums, draft and bottled ciders. 

Daily Echo: Inside The Butcher's Hook Alehouse

Children, dogs and food purchased elsewhere are all very welcome.