Southampton's great lost Old Oriental pub near the docks

Its imposing Regency building, adorned with elegant architectural details, served as a beacon for weary sailors returning from distant shores.

Originally a popular public house with the seafaring community, particularly those associated with the renowned Cunard Line, the Oriental exuded a timeless charm. The pub's warm and inviting atmosphere provided a respite from the harsh realities of life at sea.

The Grade II-listed building boasts a rich history dating back to the 1880s. Originally known as Kelway's Hotel, the imposing structure later adopted the name Kelway's Oriental Hotel until February 1906, when it was simply rechristened the Oriental Hotel.

In 1964, the Oriental underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by Berni Inns. This acquisition marked a pivotal moment in the pub's history, as it transitioned into a stylish pub and restaurant. 

The first floor was transformed into a culinary haven, specialising in delectable steaks that tantalised the taste buds of discerning diners.

The Oriental Hotel (Image: Echo)

A major refurbishment project, spearheaded by the Berni brothers, Aldo and Frank, breathed new life into the Oriental. 

The upper floors, which had remained untouched since the First World War, were unveiled for the first time in decades. 

The ground floor was carefully restored to its former glory, blending traditional elements with modern comforts. 

“Now the ground floor holds the old bar – decorated in traditional style and formed from linking together the public bar and saloon – and the steak bar, a 44- seater restaurant, with its own aperitif bar,” wrote the Daily Echo at the time.

The steak bar, housed in the former lounge bar and kitchen area, was imbued with a rustic charm. Exposed brickwork, timber beams, and rough-cast plastering evoked a sense of timeless elegance. 

The decor, meticulously designed by Berni's in-house team, aimed to create a cellar-like atmosphere, enhanced by the complete absence of windows.

The public bar and saloon were seamlessly merged, creating a welcoming space for patrons to gather and socialise.

At the rear of the building, four small bedrooms were converted into a doubles bar, adorned with nautical-themed decor, including ships' lights, brass bulkhead fittings, and other maritime relics. 

This unique space added a touch of maritime history to the Oriental's ambiance.

Aldo Berni, a governing director of the Berni Inn chain, expressed his excitement about the Oriental, noting that it was the company's first venture in Southampton. The company had been eager to establish a presence in the city for some time, and the Oriental proved to be the perfect fit.

Berni Inns experienced rapid growth during the 1960s and 1970s.

The Old Oriental. (Image: Echo)

In just nine years, the company expanded from a single restaurant in Bristol to a chain of more than 80 outlets. 

The Oriental played a significant role in this expansion, setting the standard for Berni Inns' stylish and inviting dining establishments.

In 1970, the Berni Inn chain was sold to Grand Metropolitan for £14.5 million. Subsequently, in 1995, Whitbread acquired the chain, converting the outlets into their own Beefeater and Brewers Fayre restaurants.

However, the Oriental's journey was not without its challenges. 

In early 1987, the pub was rebranded as Judi's, a new venture that aimed to cater to a different clientele.

Unfortunately, this experiment did not prove successful, and the bar was forced to close its doors in the summer of that same year.

The Oriental remained vacant for a period, but its legacy was too strong to be forgotten. 

In December 1988, the pub reopened its doors under the name Old Oriental, re-establishing itself as a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking a traditional pub experience.

The Oriental's days as a bustling pub came to an end in the 1990s. The building was subsequently converted into apartments, preserving its architectural heritage while adapting to the changing needs of the city.

Despite its closure, the Oriental's legacy lives on. It remains a cherished memory for those who experienced its warm hospitality and timeless charm.