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Narrow stone frontage but goes back a long way. Had a pint of Abbot which was in its usual JDW excellent condition and a beef madras curry as it was curry day - all for less than £6! Service was quick and I was asked if the food was OK after it had arrived at the table. Time was around noon and although quiet, customers kept on arriving. My table at the front nearest the road gave me a good view of the large TV showing Sky news with subtitles. Worth returning to when I'm next in the area.
3 Mar 2017 08:29
The Beaulieu Road Inn, Beaulieu
NOW CALLED THE DRIFT INN AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED. Had 5 Ringwood ales on the handles when we called - my pint of Boondoggle was delicious. A couple of locals were at the small bar area, there are other areas to sit, some with tables, plus the large restaurant area. Our food was of high quality and commensurate with the price. Service was attentive and prompt. We'll be back!
8 Jan 2017 10:01
The Hampshire Bowman, Dundridge
Beer variety and quality has been continued, being kept behind the bar in cooled casks. But the quality of food of late has become more questionable, apparently in the drive to produce more upmarket food. The owners have demanded that the landlord position flower tubs on the edges of the pub front to prevent motorcyclists parking there, so there has been a reduction of attendance from that quarter. In my opinion there's not such a variety of drinkers as previous and it's not now as sociable as previously
1 Dec 2016 23:10
The Empress of Blandings, Copythorne
Had an excellent pint of Pickled Partridge here at lunchtime, but the scampi, chips and peas had peas that must have come from a tin - the barmaid said that they had to use what they were supplied with. The experience was otherwise OK, there were a number of noisy young children in the pub which didn't spoil the experience as they were somewhat lost elsewhere in the size of the pub. Not much opportunity to stand at the bar, no stools, you'd have to sit at a table here
1 Dec 2016 23:00
Northbrook Arms, East Strotton
I've always found the landlord and staff most conversational - why can't others? As for the bar area, it's a most convivial area, the restaurant area is separate and available to those who wish to dine. Furthermore, the village green with seating and tables opposite the pub is available to users of the pub - what's not to like?
25 Nov 2016 23:19
Had camped here in the past, but a fire in the kitchen put a stop to the electrics for the camping. Looked at the website two years later, it listed camping. Phoned up, asked if they did camping, NO was the answer before the phone was immediately put down, presumably by the manageress. Ideal place to go if you want to be treated rudely
17 Oct 2016 18:34
Situated in a cul de sac at Kimpton near Thruxton, this pub does welcome strangers and has a variety of real ales on the handles plus Wadworths 6X. There are usually two groups per month here, you can buy a delicious home made cheese/ham etc here, there's no othere food offered, yet this pub survives and attracts clientele from all parts yet this is still a true locals pub in these days of corporate branding and food pubs where you go to eat and never talk to your neighbours at the next table. I've only been here a few times, yet the friendliness and conversations I've had are well worth the trip to here. Have alook at the pub sign, highly recommended!
17 Oct 2016 18:29
Called in today for a quick visit - had a Lord Nelson ale and it was excellent. in the main bar, the pub was full of Sunday diners with families, food looked good and I believe it must be so with the pub practically full at 2.30pm
25 Sep 2016 16:36
The Langton Arms, Tarrant Monkton
I entered via the door on the right, this bar was really set up for dining but had 3 tall stools at the bar. There were 3 ales on the handles - Flack Manor, Crop Circle and Piddle, the latter of which I had and it was excellent, price was £3.90. Vegetable soup was £5.50 which was accompanied by a dish of croutons and 4 slices of rustic bread plus butter. Service was friendly and efficient, you can also buy meats here from the nearby farm, both the farm and the pub were Dorset award winners last year. If I had turned left when entering, there was a dog friendly bar not set up for dining. There's also a skittle alley in this very smart thatched pub. Will try this pub again another day
17 Aug 2016 08:45
The track to this pub has had a lot of attention to the potholes and is now greatly improved, when we tried to get down the road a few months back it was practically impassable so we turned back at the small car park to the left and went to the Red Shoot instead. The pub itself is also greatly improved and the Wadworths 6X was in fine condition. Fairly quiet at noon on a Thursday, expect it will be packed out at weekends and school holidays as there is a child's play area in the large gardens.Our soup was hot and tasty, service was prompt and friendly. We'll be back!
5 May 2016 17:05
The Waggon and Horses, Lymington
Passed by today, pub now surrounded with tall builders wire fencing and a FOR SALE sign on pub
28 Apr 2016 19:19
Visited here and was surprised to see it looked about the same but tidied up after 8 months of difficult refurbishment due to the pub's structure and dampness. Same great atmosphere with friendly locals and ever changing beers chalked up on a board to the left of the bar. My beer was St Austell Tribute which was in fine fettle, my cheese and bacon ciabatta toastie was good too.
24 Apr 2016 19:34
Another visit here just after noon, it was a bit quiet and took another hour until the place start to get busier, but service was good as was our food. My pint of Old Buzzard by Cotleigh Brewery (I actually remembered the name, must be an age related thing), it was a dark beer of 4.8% and was superb. According to the internet, this beer is also known as Buzzard - worth seeing the Cotleigh website
24 Apr 2016 19:29
Managed to get here just after 2pm and had a pint I'd never heard of before and forgot what it was - it was OK but nothing to write home about. Only one other real on, the third pump was not in use. Food had stopped at 2pm, but we had a good chat with a local in what seemed to be the public bar and the landlady joined in as appropriate. Although the pub seemed small from the outside, there were 1 or 2 other good sized bar areas plus a more formal dining room. Our session finished at 2.30 when the landlady rang the bell and announced we had 10 minutes drinking up time.
24 Apr 2016 18:57
Went in the public bar, dark wood interior, decor seems unaltered for years with some interesting old prints on the walls. My mushroom soup was fine, but the beer was disappointingly flat and the taste wasn't quite right
23 Mar 2016 10:29
6 beers on the handles, can't recall exactly what I had now but it was new to me and the barmaid was helpful in finding a dark beer. It was curry club day (Thursdy) so the drink and a great curry was less than £7. Got quite full around lunchtime with all ages and strands of society present which made a good atmosphere. Staff friendly and service was good. While other pubs are closing, Wetherspoons have found a recipe to keep plenty of people happy
5 Feb 2016 18:54
The Admiral Sir Lucius Curtis, Southampton
9 beers on the handles, remaining one labelled and due to be supplied some time later. My Abbot was in fine condition, our soups were excellent and hot. Quiet just before 1 o clock, then busied just after 1 o clock when the lunchtime rush began. Toilets were clean (and downstairs for a change) atmosphere good, menu apparently contains some items which are trialled here for use throughout Wetherspoons. Worth another visit.
28 Jan 2016 23:33
Went in the bar area just inside the main door - large tables meant for sharing with others! The restaurant area was further on, but didn't go there. Had a delicious soup and a pint of Fuggle de Dum which was excellent as it should be at £4.10 a pint. The youthful barman was not up to the task of changing the barrel, the landlady had to do the business and pull the handle numerous times to get the ale flowing - wish I'd counted the number of pulls, looked like a new record. Anyway, the till for food is nearer the restaurant and the young barman asked me to go there to pay for the soup - I demurred, gave him the cash and let him do the walking - wonder if he's learnt to serve customers properly since.
19 Jan 2016 21:25
Went there today, had a pint of Speckled Hen which was found to be off. It was changed after the manager/landlord seated near the bar agreed with my observation and said it was near the end of the barrel. I was then given a pint of Flack Manor which wast he only other beer on the handles, I had reservations about it but the manager/landlord said he'd drink it. However after a few mouthfuls I realised that this was also off. I handed the remainder of this beer to the manager/landlord and stated that I couldn't remember when I last had a bad pint, let alone having two pints which were off. After a brief discussion concerning checking the quality of beer before serving it, which he stated he had done, I left in disgust vowing never to return
17 Dec 2015 20:29
The Old Ship, Lee On The Solent
Pint of Abbot was fine, soup was fine also, didn't try anything else.
Sat outside and viewed the yachts and ships on the Solent a most relaxing experience on an unseasonal and sunny and warm day
20 Oct 2015 22:48
Severely altered since I last visited many years ago. The pub has been extended and extensively outfitted in posh antique style which although attractive it is no longer the basic pub it was previously, at least there aren't wine glasses sitting on the tables. Both the pub and the Lone Barn are now linked by a common entrance and extension which by its very size can now contain even more tables. The Lone Barn has had practically all its bygone agricultural items removed and is now similarly posh antique in style with wine glasses ready on the tables. It has become very popular, filling up rapidly at lunchtime, there are 3 real ales on the handles and the food pricing seems reasonable. Probably worth another visit
3 Oct 2015 20:21
Another Wetherspoons worth another visit, ales and food to the usual standard with a good atmosphere
3 Sep 2015 22:57
Visited in late August to find the pub/hotel was closed, a local said it had been closed since January when it became insolvent, but it has apparently been bought recently so am awaiting further developements
3 Sep 2015 22:55
Since my last visit, it has been refurbished and appeared to be OK, but now closed up
3 Sep 2015 22:45
Another good Wetherspoons, curry Thursday with a pint of real ale for less than £7. Will return when next in Wimborne
3 Sep 2015 22:43
Closed, boarded up and surrounded by wired panels, looks like the end of another pub
3 Sep 2015 22:39
The Crown Hotel, Blandford Forum
Probably the best pub in Blandford although it's a hotel, but the prices reflect this, although not excessively. Real ale on the handles and good food. Wedding reception was going on when we were there, opportunity to see how the other half live. Website has a pub walk over the river and through the water meadows. Will be back
3 Sep 2015 22:35
Refurbished since I last visited years ago, has barstools and 3 real ales and 1 cider on the handles. Open all day, sofas or chairs available too with a conservatory and gardens. Food prices reasonable but I didn't try any. Worth another visit
3 Sep 2015 22:18
The Bath Arms Hotel, Warminster
Nicely laid out with the usual JDW helpful service. Called in during the morning on our way to Wells, there were a couple of families and some regulars. Not an extensive range of ales but nevertheless a good selection
18 Apr 2015 06:31
A stop over on the way west, drinks and food were fine, service was good and staff were friendly when we last went there
12 Apr 2015 22:13
Had an excellent pint of Ringwood Best plus a Prawn Marie Rose baguette generously equipped with salad and crisps. A good pub to retreat to when the New Forest is inundated with tourists. There were many varied groups listed so I expect it will be quite crowded during these sessions. Friendly and efficient staff
12 Apr 2015 22:08
Had a pint of Potholers here, it was excellent and better than my first pint (forgot its name), my pub of choice at the weekend serves beer directly from the casks and this method obviates any chances of contamination in the lines as well as being the traditional method of serving beer. There was a small courtyard at the rear besides the main bars. Friendly service from the barman, worth a return visit
12 Apr 2015 21:56
The George and Pilgrim, Glastonbury
Got in early, before noon, and we had a bit of a wait while the barman finished clearing the lines and obtaining ice for the couple in front of me. However, the pint (forgot what it was) turned out to be delicious and we sat outside in the sun watching the world go by. This pub is a historical gem, not everyone may like the dark interior but I thought it was fantastic. There's a back courtyard and other rooms off the main passageway, the latter goes gently uphill. I felt the friendly barman was doing his best, as we left the tourists were crowding in so it's a good idea to get in early
12 Apr 2015 21:48
The George Inn, St Mary Bourne
The preceding review is for the George at Andover, not this pub at St Mary Bourne which is confusingly listed under Andover unlike the two other pubs in St Mary Bourne.
Only two Badger beers available, the clip was turned round on the other when I visited. Food was tasty and reasonably priced, the large bar at the front has some age to it with a particularly well bored out timber beam where I sat. Another bar round the corner seemed to be the public bar, and there were a further two small restaurant type bars. staff were friendly and efficient
20 Mar 2015 16:15
The Frog and Frigate, Southampton
Now reported as being reopened, haven't been there yet though
15 Mar 2015 10:40
The Running Horse Inn, New Alresford
There wasn't a for sale sign when we passed, but the pub is still closed
15 Mar 2015 10:29
Have tried the food since our last visit, it's good pub grub at a most reasonable price. The ales are well kept and the staff are most agreeable, a pub that caters for both drinkers and diners
15 Mar 2015 10:23
The Horseshoe inn, Ebbesbourne Wake
Glad to say the standard has been maintained since my last visit, all the positive reviews posted here are all true, I'll be back!
15 Mar 2015 10:19
At lunchtime, I walked from the car park behind the pub towards the pub and attempted to enter via what seemed to be the back door - it was the entrance to a hairdressers! The lady in charge informed me that the pub opens in the evenings only. I left unrefreshed and sought out the nearby Lord Nelson instead
14 Mar 2015 23:23
Now a restaurant in all but name, only a couple of stools by the bar. A pint of Speckled Hen was £4! Food and service was good, decor was somewhat modern in style, the period wooden (?) beams were painted white. A bit too cold for us to sit outside and view the river. Won't bother going there again
14 Mar 2015 22:03
4 decent ales on the handles including Abbot and Ruddles. Quiet when we went in on an early Thursday morning, breakfast was very good and staff were most helpful. The application for this Wetherspoons was the subject of much local criticism because it was next to the church, but a local petition of support helped to ensure that it got planning permission. Well laid out with pictures of bygone days on the walls. Understand it gets busy at lunchtime and evenings. Definitely worth a revisit
19 Feb 2015 15:07
Time before last, it took nearly an hour before my soup order was delivered. Ever hopeful, I called in again but couldn't reach the bar due to the pub being full of walkers and cyclist. Left to find another pub
31 Jan 2015 21:23
Called in after 3 o'clock on a Saturday afternoon, the bar was full of a friendly shooting party. Food wasn't being served due to the time (3 to 5 being no food times) but there was Doom Bar and Flack Catcher on the handles - my Doom Bar was the best of this ale that I'd tasted.
A list of weekday food offers was on the table we eventually found, last visit here was some years ago, but passing by lately I'd noticed that there were more cars in the car park so more reasonable food prices seems to draw in the customers
31 Jan 2015 21:16
Much changed and refurbished since my last unsatisfactory visit some years ago. Large car park at rear with steps and a ramp to the entrance, seems to be bigger than I remember and there are a number of smaller and cosy bars off the main U shaped bar. Three real ales on the handles, service was friendly and efficient and our soup plentiful and tasty. Many pictures, horse brasses and knick knacks on the walls which gave a good atmosphere. Many diners which were greeted by the bar staff on arrival, on leaving we were asked if we would be seen again, so definitely a place for return visits
31 Jan 2015 21:01
Friendly and efficient service, although there were only two ales available on the handles (clip on another handle was turned around) my pint was in very good condition and the spiced parsnip soup was delicious. Many tables were reserved, there is another bar to the rear and further tables which were at a lower level to the left when entering. A busy pub/restaurant which was obviously popular when we were there.
12 Dec 2014 23:28
From the spacious car park we entered via the immaculate passageway which had the equally immaculate toilets leading off it. The Public Bar is used by both drinkers and diners, when we were there the majority were drinkers. Service was prompt, efficient and friendly, I believe it was the Landlady who served us together with a member of staff. The beer was Ringwood Best or Doom Bar, we had the latter and it was in perfect condition. Our soup was excellent, and although the prices were slightly higher than some pubs, we considered it was well justified - an excellent pub which we shall return to.
30 Nov 2014 19:03
More of a weekend and night time pub, there were three Wadworths beers on the handles and service was very friendly. More customers at the weekends, in the evening the tables are candlelit which creates a great atmosphere. Food is excellent and inexpensive.
19 Nov 2014 09:38
Although the rest of this hotel has apparently been refurbished, the bar seems to have remained unaltered in a traditional hotel bar style with dark wood chairs and tables. When we visited on a Saturday afternoon most of the tables were occupied by retirees enjoying the food and drink served - our goulash soup was excellent value at £3.99 and other meal deals were available. Three ales on the handles including Abbot and an ale dedicated to the hotel, the atmosphere was most convivial, the only drawback was the barman was often out the back somewhere attending to other duties, nevertheless he was a most friendly mine host
16 Nov 2014 11:44
The Horse and Groom, Alresford
Return visit was unsatisfactory, HSB has been withdrawn, menu was fussy and fanciful and won't appeal to most clients. What a shame, this is an attractive pub
13 Jun 2014 14:25
Visited on 2nd April in late afternoon, had the before 5pm food offer and a drink - a great deal with tasty food and a great pint.. Helpful and communicative staff, well kept and tasteful decor, it must be difficult for other pubs to compete at the prices charged and with the service Wetherspoons offer.
4 Apr 2014 19:04
Superb small pub in a small village on a narrow country road from Wilton to Warminster which is parallel to and easily accessible fromthe A36. Friendly locals, well kept beer and excellent food - what more could on want?
10 Mar 2014 20:50
Open and well patronised when I called in for a pint and a lunchtime snack today. Friendly and helpful barmaid and landlord who checked out the ale I asked for, considered it unsatisfactory and offered me a taster of the other ale which was excellent before I bought it - sorry, there were unfortunately only 2 ales on and I can't remember their names. The chicken pieces with a sauce and the coffee afterwards (coffee served in a half pint beer mug) were very good indeed. Well worth a return visit
21 Feb 2014 18:38
The Horse and Groom, Alresford
A Fullers pub, varied well kept beer with a sympathetic and comfortable refurbishment. Separate restaurant area, but good and reasonably priced food could be consumed in the lounge bar area. Worth a return visit.
8 Feb 2014 22:28
The Standing Order, Southampton
Just before Christmas, had a great Christmas meal with an excellent pint of Ruddles for the usual Wetherspoons low price. Selection of ales is extensive, varied and well kept with all the usual Wetherspoons offers. In the face of pub closures around the country, this is what the majority of punters want.
8 Feb 2014 09:45
CLOSED and boarded up - what are Fullers going to do with this unique and well patronised pub?
8 Feb 2014 09:40
Forgot to say - the pub has been renamed "The English Partridge"
7 Feb 2014 10:45
Newly refurbished without losing its character and more of a gastro pub now with a concise yet reasonably priced menu. The dartboard remains in use, there are 3 real ales on the handles, helpful staff and a good atmosphere, it's now well patronised so has probably been rescued from closure.
7 Feb 2014 10:45
CLOSED. Now a small Tesco with some housing to be built out the back
5 Dec 2013 21:42
Had a pint of Thwaites Crafty Devil here, a ruby ale which was excellent, as was the spicy tomato soup. A characterful pub with pleasant and efficient service from the landlord and the barmaid
18 Nov 2013 21:36
Came here during the Beggars Fair and found that the staff were welcoming and friendly. The beer was good and served promptly despite the numbers present - the burgers cooked on the barbecue in the courtyard were also very good. Must return to see what it's like in normal times.
24 Jul 2013 20:37
Excellent pint of HSB, our lunchtime snack was very good and was enjoyed in the rear garden. The garden was well laid out with flowers and other features. We've never been in such a clean and well swept area! The interior was as previously stated, dark with old beams in evidence just like proper pubs used to be. Service was prompt and friendly, a real gem to find - we'll be back!
24 Jul 2013 20:31
Service was OK when we were there on a Saturday lunchtime, beer and food were fine as well. Seems to me that Wetherspoons are providing what people want - although people don't like another supermarket being opened in their area, once opened the locals generally patronise supermarkets in preference to the local shops
29 Jun 2013 22:21
Our first Wetherspoons, it was divided into separate largish rooms and was soon full at lunchtime. My Abbot ale was excellent, food was good and table service polite and cheerful. Prices were low, you can see why Wetherspoons are popular!
23 Jun 2013 13:58
Need to get in early for a seat - guest ale was Sixpenny Best which was most drinkable at £2.55. Food was good too, plenty of people of all ages here, service was good although there were occasions when there was customer overload at the bar. Wetherspoons must be providing what the majority want as the pub was packed when we left
23 Jun 2013 13:53
My Doom Bar was in fine condition as was the cheerful service. Seems to have been pretty much unaltered for some time but nevertheless cosy. Got talking to a couple of friendly regulars which was a definite plus. There were food offers for Senior Citizen evident on the blackboards outside hence most of the clientele were in this age range. The menu looked good although we only tried the soup which was fine. There is also a campsite attached to this pub.
8 Feb 2013 23:01
Went here for a family celebration, the food and service was excellent. The restaurant area is extended by moving large folding doors to make a really huge area. There is a small bar at the front, beer was in fine condition (London Pride)
6 Feb 2013 08:45
This pub has a holiday resort type atmosphere, perhaps because it is adjacent a large and well maintained campsite and it has accomodation as well. The interior appears to have been extended on a number of occasions and is well lit thus it does not have an olde worlde appearance. Nevertheless, we found it to be very comfortable and well maintained and the food quality and price was very good. The beer range has been previously described, my Pig's Ear was excellent, the staff were helpful and friendly. Slimbridge Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust is a ten minute walk away
4 Feb 2013 09:49
Ringwood Best and Doom Bar were on the handles when I visited, I had the latter which was excellent. Friendly service plus a low ceiling height and apparently genuine old beams all contributed to a good atmosphere. Was filling up with convivial diners as I was leaving.
19 Dec 2012 20:25
Went here a couple of years ago, there were no real ales on the handles and the snack/food menu was pretty much burger standard. All openings have now been secured with corrugated iron, an opportunity to make a decent pub/restaurant in the vicinity of the Leaisure Centre have been missed
13 Dec 2012 22:33
Went here for a Christmas dinner - service was excellent, the building fabric and the atmosphere was very good. The building is a rambling affair, the bar area had a low ceiling and was pretty full when we visited. There were some 4 ales on the handles, my London Pride was in very good condition but the price was probably commensurate with the pub having had an expensive (allegedly £2 million) total refurbishment. Because of this, the pub/restaurant has gone upmarket, not everyone will be happy with this although it's fine for a special occasion.
13 Dec 2012 22:14
CLOSED. Windows and doors covered in metal sheeting, site enclosed by wire fencing sections - due to be houses?
3 Dec 2012 18:56
Visited on a Saturday lunchtime, it was practically full with everyone standing up drinking and chatting, few tables (not that there were too many) in the bar. Had an excellent pint and some cauliflower soup which was most agreeable. Had a friendly conversation with one of the regulars, when I left the landlord said goodbye and thanks for coming - when did I last have that from a pub I'd visited for the first time? I must go back there
13 Nov 2012 19:17
Came across this pub by chance at a lunchtime - it had some tarpaulin in the thatch roof and seemed to be a traditional country pub that had fallen on hard times. However, when I went inside the pub consisted of tables and chairs and no other customers, I had hoped for a chat with locals in the vicinity of the bar. My pint was most acceptable as was the baguette. The pub also had a restaurant area and the specials menu contained venison and other game. A couple of cyclists appeared later, their tipple was two pints of orange juice. I left disappointed with nothing else to report.
18 Oct 2012 22:09
The Purefoy Arms, Preston Candover
The above pictures and facilities do not reflect how upmarket the pub has become since I visited. It has been fully gastrated and is now a restaurant not a pub. You really need to book a table if you want to ensure there is one to sit at although there is a sofa and armchair facing the wall if you can't get a table. Although the Otter ale (only real ale available) was good, and the soup was excellent, I was charged �3 for an average cup of coffee. Not my sort of place at all, I won't be back.
18 Oct 2012 20:34
Northbrook Arms, East Strotton
There were three beers on the handles, mine was in very good condition. The soup was tasty. Not too busy at lunchtime when I called, but nevertheless it was an enjoyable experience
18 Oct 2012 20:25
A varied selection of clientele use the bars in this hotel, we sat in the outside area at lunchtime (unfortunately it was also the smoker's retreat) and returned in the evening and sat inside next to the bar. Not a great selection of ales, but what I had was most acceptable. There was a party and disco in progress in the evening so it was fairly full. The lunchtime sandwich was very good, service was from the food bar where it was freshly prepared while I waited
18 Oct 2012 20:20
A more up market pub that reflects the general affluence of most of the shops in Alresford. Nevertheless, I had a decent pint in a convivial atmosphere.
18 Oct 2012 20:12
The Running Horse Inn, New Alresford
Called in on a Saturday during the twice yearly beer festival and had an excellent and previously unheard of pint from the rack of barrels situated against the wall near the bar. Although the pub seemed a bit devoid of atmosphere, it was pretty full and a group were setting up in the corner so they are obviously doing something right.
18 Oct 2012 20:08
The Globe on the Lake, Alresford
Efficient and friendly service, good beer with well prepared and affordable food in a great atmosphere with a garden overlooking the lake and associated wildfowl - can't be too many places with all these facilities!
18 Oct 2012 20:02
Returned to this hotel to see what had been changed. Well, the bar/restaurant/reception areas have been sympathetically refurbished and reorganised somewhat, and the service is very prompt, friendly and efficient. Beer was good as was the soup at lunchtime. There is a good sized but sheltered garden with chairs, parasols, etc.
17 Oct 2012 21:40
This building has a thatched roof and is actually a four star hotel with separate restaurant and bar. We were here during the Great Dorset Steam Fair, yet the bar was not overcrowded, parents with children retired to the ample garden at the front of the establishment. Beer and food was in very good condition, staff were helpful and food reasonably priced and of good quality.
17 Oct 2012 21:12
Sat in the small garden in the sunshine, lunchtime snack was fine as was the beer. Staff were polite and helpful
17 Oct 2012 21:03
The Talbot Inn, Berwick St John
Pub has been bought by a go ahead couple, they were three months into the pub when we called in. It was during the early evening of the village country fair and the bar was packed so we had to push our way through to the bar. Looking at the menu, prices were most reasonable and we were accomodated in a table in a small but cosy area with other diners to the right of the bar. Food service was surprisingly quick, food was coming out of the kitchen at short intervals yet was apparently well appreciated by all concerned. The beer was excellent too.
17 Oct 2012 20:50
Now sympathetically tidied up and redecorated, beer and food standards still maintained
17 Oct 2012 20:41
The Woodbridge Inn, North Newnton
The interior of this establishment has been changed upmarket since I last visited to become more of a restaurant than a pub, nevertheless the service, beer and food was fine although there is little of the previous pub atmosphere remaining
17 Oct 2012 20:40
The Stapleton Arms, Gillingham
Staff were friendly and helpful and made us some sandwiches on a Sunday when normally only roasts were served. A good range of beer on the handles, ours was in very good condition. With its high ceilings and sofas in the bar area, and a separate restaurant area this seems to have been recently refurbished in the gastro style yet still worth a visit for the reasons previously mentioned.
17 Oct 2012 20:36
Although some may not like the unrefurbished and gently decaying nature of this pub, as has been said before, this is a pub with character. Our HSB was in fine condition, the doorstep sandwiches were excellent and locals were friendly and conversational. We'll return!
22 Sep 2012 10:20
Excellent pub serving well kept ale, my baguette was one of the best I've ever tasted. Good service too. Pretty quiet on my lunchtime visit though.
18 Sep 2012 21:40
Closed and boarded up when we passed it on Monday 17th September 2012. Couldn't see any 'for sale' signs.
18 Sep 2012 21:36
Friendly landlord, local papers and information available to read. Ale was in excellent condition and luchtime baguette was fine. Extensive garden although not too many seats and tables for the size of the garden. Large black furry cat in evidence.
18 Aug 2012 23:31
The Five Bells Inn, Whitchurch Canonicorum
Palmers Copper ale was in excellent condition, but the Best was off. Good pub lunch food and friendly locals on Sunday but very quiet during the week.
18 Aug 2012 23:08
The Anchor Inn, Burton Bradstock
A most convivial evening was spent here with friendly locals and staff. There is a great selection of malts on shelves above the bar. didn't try the food although the prices quoted were reasonable. Three ales were available on the handles, Doombar, Tribute and one other - my Tribute was in excellent condition.
18 Aug 2012 23:03
Only two Otter ales on the handles when we went in - why was this pub the West Dorset CAMRA pub of the year in 2011 then? The interior is much later than I would have supposed from the age of the pub.
18 Aug 2012 22:55
The staff were really friendly and efficient, my Ringwood 49 was in very good condition. Didn't try anything from the menu but other customers food looked most acceptable. Seemed to be a good place to stop over on a trip
1 Aug 2012 00:20
Went for a meal here in the formal dining room with family and the food was excellent at a price commensurate with the quality. There is a bar serving a couple of real ales which were in very good condition. Seating for relaxing and/or drinking is also available at other areas including the garden. A well presented and upmarket hotel.
30 Jul 2012 10:47
Went for a drink, the 49 was in good condition. Nice atmosphere in the bar area, there were plenty of dining patrons on a Saturday night in the eating area. However, the menu was not extensive, prices were higher than I expected and I was unable to judge the quality of food or standard of service. OK for a quiet pint.
25 Jul 2012 08:55
We arrived here a couple of weeks ago, this was a pub that I had last visited a few years ago but since its gastro menu on its website had been introduced, there was nothing we fancied eating at the prices shown. Anyway, decided to go for a pint and a snack to see how the palce had been altered to fit in with its gastro upgrade. As we climbed the steps to the garden there were empty boxes and crates dumped by the top of the steps. The grass in the garden had not been cut and the area seemed unloved. There was mud on the edge of the path next to the building that we had to step around. Looked into the pub, nothing seemed to have been changed, there were few patrons there, it seemed dark and uninviting. We left.
25 Jul 2012 08:50
While really a hotel, there is a formal restaurant, inside bars and an upper level terrace bar overlooking the river and town. See the website for more details of the hotel. Service was friendly and efficient, I can't remember the name of the beer but it was very good. Our baguettes were also of a high standard. Sitting on the terrace with a pint in my hand looking at the scenery was most enjoyable, waitress service provided the food and other drinks.
24 Jul 2012 21:33
Excellent traditional hotel with two large bars - hard to get a seat in either on Market day (Thursday) at 1130 am. Coffees and teas were being drunk by the patrons at this time, is this a meeting place for visitors to the market? Efficient and speedy service from the staff who were all smartly dressed. My 6X was good, but the Farmers Glory (seasonal ale, see Wadworth website) was most enjoyable. Bar snacks were also also availble and looked good. Worth a return visit!
20 Jul 2012 09:55
Didn't realise this pub/restaurant was listed, my post relates to July 2009 on a stormy night when the ferries were making heavy weather of it. The bar had limited ales as I recall, but I definitely remember that the service was appalling. The young waiter stood around and refused to have his eyes caught. Eventually we had to go to the till to get food served and complain about the waiter, at least the food was good. Such a pity as the location, views and ferry passengers were a welcome change from the normal.
29 May 2012 22:05
Four ales on the handles, my Abbot was in very good condition. Interior of main part of pub was a bit sparse, but there is a stables bar which I didn't see this time. We had a drink in the garden which was most acceptable
20 May 2012 19:01
After being closed for some months, this pub has been refurbished in the modern style and has been open for a few weeks now. There is a separate restaurant area as well as a bar area and a lounge area. Well kept Ringwood ales on the handles, the food I saw looked fine. Despite it's modern makeover, it seemed to be popular with the locals so that's definitely an improvement.
18 May 2012 20:25
Sympathetically extended and refurbished it's a far cry from when i last visited some 3 or so years ago. There were 3 ales on the handles plus good food. A friendly and helpful landlord, enjoyed a conversation with both him and a local. There is also a pub website via Google. Worth revisiting!
10 May 2012 19:43
Drovers Inn, Gussage all Saints
Went on a Saturday lunchtime, the bar to the left is furnished as described below, the other bar was full of parents and children and there were also a number in the left hand bar. More of a restaurant than a bar but a cosy atmosphere nevertheless. Four Ringwood ales on the handles, my 49er was in excellent condition. Unfortunately there was only one person serving, he also left the bar to serve food and collect dishes. I expect this pub is very popular in the summer and would need further staff to avoid long waits. My baguette was very good and good value, I felt prices for main courses to be rather high.
18 Apr 2012 09:04
The Monksbrook, Chandlers Ford
Had a pint of Abbot and a cheese and bacon baguette when visiting at lunchtime. Both were excellent, the baguette was very good value. Many offife workers and OAPs were present, with the varied areas of the pub and the garden there was a place for everyone.
25 Mar 2012 10:32
Excellent and varied food plus Ringwood beers with great service. A good and relaxing atmosphere
9 Mar 2012 09:39
A Ruby ale (from Flack Manor?) was on one handle, Flack Manor Double drop was on the other. The Ruby ale was excellent, as was our soup. Service was attentive and friendly, the bar area had some settees and other seating around tables. Prices were most reasonable. There was also a separate dining room and secluded lounge area (for residents?). There were only another four people in the bar area at lunchtime, and with the atmosphere, ale and food we sampled I would also think that this 17th century AA 4 star rated inn deserves to be more popular
22 Feb 2012 19:54
Three handles, but only Ringwood Best and a Winter ale were available - I stuck to the Ringwood Best which was fine, perhaps a trifle colder than what I'd expect. We had chicken and winter vegetable soup which was served in a sort of pudding bap - it was excellent! Service was prompt and attentive. The pub was colder than what I'd expect, the girlfriend said the radiators were only lukewarm. Nevertheless, this is a very old pub with character, there were a large number of customers present at lunchtime which was good to see at a time of declining pub usage. Worth another visit!
31 Jan 2012 21:03
Now refurbished sympathetically to a good standard and although more of a restaurant serving good food at reasonable prices (�6 for a lunchtime special) there is a bar area at the rear. Service was quick and pleasant, our meals were enjoyable. I had a Hobgoblin which was very well kept. I'll be back!
21 Jan 2012 08:59
We arrived early, and found all tables but two had RESERVED signs on them. A helpful waitress (one of many) offered us a choice of table and brought the beer to our table. My HSB served from a barrel behind the bar was in fine condition. The soup was excellent, and the waitress service was fast and attentive as would befit a restaurant, which is what this pub has become in all but name. Prices were a bit higher than usual, but the previous comments together with the pub atmosphere probably justifies it. We'll be back, nevertheless.
13 Dec 2011 22:20
Their website says they are closed for refurbishment until 25th November
22 Nov 2011 09:33
Doom Bar and Ringwood Best on the handles, I tried the former and it was in good condition. Landlord and Landlady (tenants) friendly and keen to promote their pub including Christmas menu. Tried the soup which was excellent with two generous portions of french bread and butter. Didn't try any other food however, the range of food on offer was not extensive or entirely to my taste but the landlord stated that all food was locally sourced. Refurbishment still in progress.
3 Nov 2011 19:30
A sympathetically renovated pub with Thai restaurant attached. Beers were London Pride, Spire and Ramsbury, I tried the latter and it was in excellent condition as was the Thai hot and sour king prawn soup. A good atmosphere with friendly and helpful staff. There are a number of different rooms, the toilets are superb too! See website for menu and pictures of the pub.
16 Aug 2011 18:26
Although more of a restaurant than a pub, it has exposed brickwork, wooden beams, etc and has a good atmosphere - see the website via Google for pictures and menus. Three Greene King real ales were on the handles, mine was in excellent condition. Service was friendly and efficient, my rump steak was cooked to perfection. This pub rapidly filled up at lunchtime and competes with the Old Mill which is only a few hundred yards away. Worth revisiting, although we were told it's closing sometime in September for 6 weeks while it's being extended - better check before going.
10 Aug 2011 11:04
Lots of attractive olde worlde areas and corners in this pub with appropriate tables and chairs at which to quaff your ale and/or enjoy delicious food which is reasonably priced for the quality provided. Service was excellent and unobtrusively attentive. Ringwood Best and 49 together with a Flack Manor ale was available, my 49 was probably the best I've ever had. Definitely a place to return to now that I've tried it.
4 Aug 2011 20:50
Called in the other day for a pint and lunch, but found out I'd mistaken it for the Three Tuns which is a couple of hundred yards away. Since the previous comments were made, this pub is now an upmarket gastro pub with a modern interior to suit. We didn't stay and went to the Three Tuns instead which has more of a traditional feel to it. Locals have commented that as this village is on the main line to London, it has become populated by commuters with corresponding prices all round.
1 Aug 2011 20:31
Popped in the other day, saw a line of handles and was immediately drawn to the Ringwood 49 which was excellent. Didn't try the food this time, but may be back some other day to give it a try. The only difference I noticed in the right hand side of the pub (viewed from the entrance) was a leather sofa and chairs, the rest of the furniture was varying tables and chairs. Presume the dining side was on the left hand side of the entrance but in my haste for a drink i didn't give it the once over or try the food.
27 Jul 2011 00:36
My London Pride was excellent, there were 2 other real ales on the handles. We sat in the old part of the pub to the right of the main door, the decor included pictures and memorabilia which contributed to a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. Service was friendly and efficient, our tomato and basil soups were very good too. Walked round the rest of the pub before leaving, these areas being more of a restaurant, they had also had a sympathetic makeover with pictures and memorabilia. Very popular, you need to get in early for lunch to get your choice of seat. This is one of the few pubs I've visited that doesn't have sticky tables! I'll be back.
8 Jul 2011 10:28
The Bishop On The Bridge, Winchester
As has been said before, the emphasis is more on food than beer. However there were at least 4 ales on the handles, my London Pride was very good indeed. Had an excellent spicy soup which was served in a very large hollowed out roll! Friendly and efficient staff, indoors there was a spacious feel to the place, the large garden overlooking the river was very attractive also. A pub worth returning to for both food and drink.
10 May 2011 20:37
What can I add? Still serving 2 ales on the handles (Speckled Hen and GK IPA), my curries (from 2 visits) have been excellent. Staff are very good too!
7 May 2011 21:22
Had a pint of HSB and some carrot and coriander soup at lunchtime. Prices were most reasonable for both and the quality was very good. Staff were most helpful. Will return sometime later to sample the food menu.
7 May 2011 21:17
Revisited this large pub and found still a good atmosphere, 4 real ales on the handles my HSB and friend's Fortyniner were excellent as usual. Food quality and variety has improved greatly, large portions too, many drinking diners. A pub I can visit in the tourist season and still expect to get a seat
20 Mar 2011 10:05
Visited again after some time away. HSB, Butcombe bitter and two other real ales were on the handles, my HSB was in fine condition. The home made mushroom soup I had was outstanding, there were a number of walkers and regulars in the bar when I called, more people than when I called previously. Service was friendly and efficient. I'll be back!,
15 Mar 2011 19:37
Real ales in good condition, friendly service with home made food. Excellent interior, recommended!
15 Mar 2011 19:30
The Queens Head Inn, Broad Chalke
Excellent pint of Hopping Hare in the appropriate glass, prawn sandwich and salad was fine. Helpful staff, outside seats at the front of the pub or at the bach in the garden leading to the car park. Friendly locals created a good atmosphere, there were also a number of diners sharing the bar area..
5 Mar 2011 21:03
Doom Bar and Youngs plus one other were on the handles when we visited, my Youngs was superb. We had a scampi and a pie - both were delicious with ample portions. Service was friendly and speedy. A good atmosphere with some family gatherings evident
5 Mar 2011 20:53
HSB, London Pride and Seafarers were on the handles, this is after all a Fullers pub. Good to find an excellent drop of HSB. Our food was very good, my tasty chicken curry had nan bread, mango chutney and sour cream with it. The upstairs interior had a notation that described how it was once a grain warehouse, there were apparently original timbers still in evidence with furnishings in good order. The place was practically full on a wet day albeit in the half term. Good views over Langstone Harbour. Certainly it was restaurant upstairs, didn't check out conviviality downstairs, but food ordering and delivery was efficient and friendly. Plenty of tables and chairs outside, expect it is extremely popular in summer
23 Feb 2011 21:25
3 non chain ales on the handles - my 3 Three Tuns ale was in excellent condition. There is a restaurants at one end of the building, the pub area had wood floorboards vintage tables, chairs and benches, it had a traditional feel about it with various jugs, memorabilia and tools hanging from the ceiling beams or on the wall just like proper pubs used to have. Service was very good, my home made soup was excellent. Friendly atmosphere and customers when i visited, one said he travels one hundred miles for their cassoulet. I'll be back!
18 Feb 2011 19:15
Ringwood Best and Hobgoblin plus another were on the handles when I visited, I chose Hobgoblin which was in excellent condition. The house curry (there were two other curries on offer) was as hot as I had been advised. Friendly locals in this unspoilt local, I was told the landlord had been there for thirty years - is this a record?
11 Feb 2011 01:16
My Hopping Hare by Badger was excellent, this is a Hall and woodhouse pub after all. I had a plentiful prawn baguette with coleslaw and salad although I didn't try any thing else on the menu. Pleasant and helpful staff, the pub seems to be generally unaltered but now has a widescreen TV at one end of the bar which was tuned to the news when I visited. A variety of locals were present, this pub is worth visiting again!
9 Feb 2011 17:12
The Waggon and Horses, Lymington
6X and Henry's IPA were on the handles, my 6X was in good condition. Our two chicken curries and one toad in the hole were good value and pleasantly served. Can't understand why there weren't more customers.
14 Jan 2011 21:05
Much more of a restaurant than a pub now, however the old railway memorabilia gives some character to this small establishment. Disappointingly, only Wadworths 6X and Henrys IPA were on the handles. Food and customers more upmarket than previously.
9 Jan 2011 22:10
Three beers on the handles - I had Red Ember which was excellent. There was another local ale besides the mainstream offering as well, but I didn't try it. A pleasant atmosphere, good service, food looked to be most agreeable, an outside smokers area, it's somewhere I'd be happy to return to.
17 Nov 2010 23:11
An unadulterated country pub with a bar and some other rooms either side. Friendly locals to have a good chat with, 6X and Stonehenge Pigswill on the handles, always been in excellent condition whenever I've tried them. The menu may be basic, but it's fine and is cooked to order by the landlady. At the back of the pub there's a campsite which is open all year round, it's got good views and electrics too. I'll be back!
13 Nov 2010 22:43
Well kept Ringwood Best and Fortyniner on the handles, very reasonably priced good quality food. Bare floorboards and rather basic wood walls with a generally nautical atmosphere. Some pictures, etc. on walls. Could be good for a walk to Calshot or a view of Southampton Water.
2 Nov 2010 16:44
Excellent character pub, a good selection of well kept real ales and a limited range of good food from the kitchen. Unspoilt interior looks like its always been this way with a number of separate rooms in the older style. Friendly locals to chew the fat with too, cannot recommend it highly enough!
29 Oct 2010 16:12
The Plough and Barleycorn, Shanklin
Surprisingly good service, good choice of beers and really good quality and quantity of food at a lower price than you would think. Perhaps more of a locals pub, but it's still somewhere to go for a good experience.
15 Oct 2010 23:13
This pub has been a Table Table for about 5 years since Charlie Chalk and his Fun Factory were kicked into touch with the change from Brewers Fayre. It's probably more of a restaurant than a pub but there is an area more suitable to drinkers with a couple of widescreen TVs and one arm bandits at the other end of the pub and chairs/table/stools. 3 real ales on the handles, 6X, Hobgoblin and Ringwood Best, although they may be a trifle cold for some tastes I found my 6X to be fine. Although the food range is limited and the standard is average, it is consistent and the service is very good.
9 Oct 2010 00:25
Went her with another couple, HSB was on the handles! Another 3 real ales were also available, but I reckon I made the right choice. Beer, food, service and prices were superb, it was a pleasure to be here. The sweets were also something to be seen, at first we thought they were expensive but then they came with about twice as much as expected plus ice cream and cream! there was a good atmosphere here too, the landlord and chef were in good form. We'll be back!
9 Oct 2010 00:16
Doom Bar, Black Sheep and Ringwood Best on the handles when I visited, my Doom Bar was in good condition. Luckily it wasn't particularly busy so a reasonable service was available. In school holidays previously it was so busy that I walked out as it was going to be a thirsty wait so it's worth bearing that in mind. Other people's food seemed OK, my sandwich with salad (could have had chips instead of the salad) was very good. A rambling sort of pub which has some very old parts with a flagstone floor.
6 Oct 2010 18:11
Went here at lunchtime with another couple, there were 4 ales on the handles, my 6X was excellent. Although this pub has had some redecoration in the recent past, it still retains its character as a country pub made like they used to! We all had different items from the menu which had a good selection and the prices were most reasonable. All meals were plentiful and of good quality. There were not may others in the bars, although there were a number sitting outside in the sunshine - didn't see anyone who could be described as pikeys. There's also a campsite at the back of the pubalthough no one was using it. We'll be back!
28 Sep 2010 09:15
A good pint of 6X was had, there was also Elmos Fire by Moles Brewery of Wiltshire on the handles, the latter is apparently a lighter brew. My prawn baguette was most acceptable. A friendly local, there was a small vintage car rally on when I called by.
25 Sep 2010 16:31
The Kings Arms Inn, East Stour
As stated previously, this is more of a guest house/restaurant than a pub now however my 6X was excellent. Standing room only at the bar, otherwise you need to sit at a table. Lunchtime special of home made chicken mushroom and cheese pie with the trimmings (other choices too) was worth writing home about, especially for �5. Service was good, albeit a trifle slow maybe due to the food preparation times. If you are hungry and thirsty this is the place for a quality inexpensive meal and a pint.
24 Sep 2010 23:37
The Talbot Inn, Berwick St John
A good pint or two of Ringwood was had, but didn't try the food. It was very quiet when I went in at lunchtime, but another customer remarked that it does get crowded at times.
24 Sep 2010 23:29
I had an excellent pint of Ringwood Best but didn't try the Alvediston Ale produced by the Sixpenny Brewery for this pub. There were another couple of ales on the handles, but didn't remember them. Friendly and efficient service, I believe I could hear the steak I had ordered being beaten into submission in the kitchen, it was the best steak I've had this year! The low beam across the ceiling needs to be avoided, it's just the right height to catch out the unwary. A great pub, worth visiting again.
24 Sep 2010 23:17
A trditional and rambling pub with beer garden at the back in the High Street. The Somerset ale on the handle was in fine condition, Henrys IPA was also available. Had a sandwich there, but it wasn't too impressive. Nevertheless, the locals were friendly, the football on large screen TVs in the public bar was vocally supported. Good service from the bar staff too.
24 Sep 2010 16:32
Well kept Badger on the handles (I had a pint), plus Tangle Foot. Although it has been gastrified with glasses on tables in the restaurant area, there was also a small pulic bar area with a pool table. Nevertheless, my prawn baguette was plentiful and delicious with a side salad and cole slaw for �5.50. Staff were excellent, this is a pub I shall no doubt return to when i'm next in the area.
24 Sep 2010 16:20
A welcoming and friendly proper pub with varied locals and visitors. Well kept Banks Bitter and one other bitter on the handles. Food served in the restaurant. I'll be back!
28 Aug 2010 19:18
Proper boozer, well over a dozen different ales on the handles, a varied and changing clientele. Excellent atmosphere with quick service as well! I understand they do food as well, but didn't try it as it's in a separate area from the rambling and interestig bar.
28 Aug 2010 17:17
The Three Horseshoes, Burton Bradstock
A lounge bar plus dining room with well kept Palmers ales - the 200 was excellent. Really it's more of a foodie pub, didn't try anything other than a sandwich which was OK. Not sure if it relies more on the passing trade than the locals though, plenty of families (holidaymakers?) with young children were using it when I was there, so not a quiet pub at that time.
22 Aug 2010 23:00
17th century pub sympathetically refurbished while retaining its character. Three (or was it 4?) excellently kept Palmers ales plus one other on the handles. Great pub atmosphere with friendly locals and helpful staff. Food is very good at most reasonable prices. What else could one wish for?
22 Aug 2010 22:50
Food was good quality with quick service and reasonably priced. More of a large restaurant than a bar, I was disappointed that there was no real ale available on the handles, only the usual gassy stuff so common in Scotland.
12 Jul 2010 18:59
The Great Malvern Hotel, Great Malvern
Friendly hotel bar serving 3 ales from Malvern Hills Brewery and Bass. Also serves food. Live music sometimes on offer with a late finish.
12 Jul 2010 18:34
Friendly pub with a campsite! Black Sheep at �2.40 a pint plus another draught beer plus good pub food at reasonable prices. Worth a visit.
12 Jul 2010 18:29
Had a great pint of HSB, there were also two other Fullers ales on the handles. We had two excellent sandwiches with some chips and salad included, we thought they were some of the best we'd tasted. Service was both friendly and efficient, nothing was too much trouble. Enjoyed our table outside in the sun too.
26 May 2010 21:57
The Red Lion, Sturminster Marshall
Busy pub serving food, both the food and Badger ale were excellent with service to match.
20 May 2010 23:52
The Empress of Blandings, Copythorne
Went here with another couple and we felt this pub has atmosphere even with its high ceiling (in places) and ample room between tables. The Badger ale was fine, service was both pleasant and efficient and the food was good too. Surprised there weren't more people there, but that's how it goes sometimes.
13 May 2010 22:27
Although the pub website only shows a dinner menu, we went in at lunchtime on the offchance there were baguettes etc. available - there were ciabattas with various fillings. Full menu was not large but presume it was of high quality to match the lunchtime snacks. Excellent friendly and efficient service, we turned left at the entrance and went in the lounge bar which turned out to be the restaurant. Plenty of excellent pop photos from various groups on the walls. Although there was only Ringwood 49 on the one handle in the lounge bar there were other ales available - the 49 was excellent, I'm into 49 at the moment so it was ideal. Will return later!
12 May 2010 23:10
A centuries old pub, quite rambling, serving an excellent pint of Butcombes Bitter, plus two others I didn't try. Friendly and helpful service, the soup I had was excellent!
28 Apr 2010 18:35
The Prince of Wales, Haslemere
A pub built in 1928 (notice on wall near roof) that still shows when there were three separate bar areas, decor pretty much unchanged since the 50s I'd think. HSB was not up to normal standard, there were two other ales on the handles I could have tried instead. Food was good, perhaps a longer wait than I'd have liked but service was polite and cheerful. Seemed to be only one guy serving, so beer and food service was slow, but in this off the beaten track location perhaps its all part of the atmosphere.
16 Apr 2010 20:51
Two Ringwood beers plus a Brakspeare and Timothy Taylor Landlord - my Ringwood 49 was excellent as was the French onion soup. Only got as far as the Public Bar, wooden floorboards and flagstones, locals and a couple of suits when I was there. I'll be back!
19 Mar 2010 08:19
Went here on Sunday 21st February, was told there was a 45 minute wait for food, so firstly went for a walk then returned and had a decent pint of Tribute in the bar until our names were called by a pleasant member of staff. Ordered the food, was shown to a table in another part of the bar, food arrived within ten minutes - excellent Sunday roast. Will visit again.
11 Mar 2010 23:13
Ideal drinking haunt, nicely converted, beer in good condition
8 Mar 2010 17:44
Went back here after years away, there are 2 real ales on the handle, forget which but mine was in very good condition - Cask Marque too! Food we had for lunchtime meal was fine. Decor in generally good condition ,almost cosy despite its size.
8 Mar 2010 17:39
Good beer, inexpensive good food, friendly and efficient service, log fire, cosy atmosphere - what more could you want?
6 Mar 2010 18:05
A spacious and well laid out Wetherspoons. Varying real ales on the handle with all the usual curry and drink offers all at low prices. May call in again later for another organised farewell drink, it's the place to go for a large gathering too.
4 Mar 2010 21:11
The Still and West, Portsmouth
My HSB was delicious, 3 other real ales also on the handle. Bar food in paper was really cheap and quite tasty. An efficient barman too!
4 Mar 2010 21:07
Had a well kept pint of Tribute plus a prawn baguette and chips with salad - just the job! Bar staff served efficiently even though there were a number of other customers in the late February we visited. Quite dark inside, atmospheric even with many items suspended from the ceiling and elsewhere.. I'll be back sometime later.
3 Mar 2010 08:22
Found the public bar after trekking through the compact lounge bar. Wooden floorboards and more seats in the public bar, 4 beers, Doom Bar, Tribute Ringwood Best and 49'r on handles in both bars.. My Tribute was superb. Bar snacks tasty and good value, service very good. Will try the public bar entrance next time.
31 Jan 2010 22:57
A fairly unspoilt pub/restaurant/hotel with three real ales on the handles, mine was just right. Turned out to be fairly full on Sunday - get in early for a seat!
31 Jan 2010 22:42
A proper pub serving a variety of excellent beers (3 when I was last there) and food at great prices. My Moles beer was dark and tasty. Unaltered for years it has a great atmosphere - not to everyones liking perhaps but a great pub nevertheless. I'll be back for more later.
29 Jan 2010 00:11
The pub has been the subject of a three month renovation and while it has gone upmarket, the traditional feel of the building has been retained. There are 5 beers on the handles, my Bowman ales were superb. Food and service is excellent although main courses have risen in price commensurate with the refurb. Somewhere to go for that special day/night out, there is also a function room in what was the old skittle alley.
29 Jan 2010 00:04
Although primarily a top of the range gastro pub specialising in seafood, I enjoyed a delicious pint of Butcombe Bitter and an excellent lobster bisque soup in the bar. Staff were most pleasant and helpful, offering local and national newspapers also. Definitely somewhere to visit again.
16 Jan 2010 20:00
When I went, they had run out of oil for heating due to the cold snap but there was a warm welcome and the 6X was excellent. Food was limited but my sandwich was just right. Seemed like a good locals pub, but there needs to be a good food service.
15 Jan 2010 22:54
According to the web, the owners of this pub is the Orchid Inns chain - sixth largest in the UK. It was reported that they have not spent any money on this pub as it is due to be refurbished some time in the future - we've been waiting for action for some time now and the pub has been massively neglected and is in a dilapidated state. Even the sign shown in the above photo is no longer in place - previously it was suspended at one end by some rope, albeit it hung at an angle - some advert! One gents toilet had tiles missing, a light shade missing and a hole in the ceiling where presumably another light was. There was no soap in this gents or the other gents. Many light bulbs were missing in the unheated skittle alley which had splintered wood on the skittle alley runway. Numerous examples of plaster missing and decrepid decor. Now for faults by the staff - an unacceptable and obviously cloudy pint of 6X, snail trails on the skittle alley carpet. Sunday carvery food served was barely suitable for the lower end of the market who piled up their plates for the week. this could have had the potential to be a good pub, but other pubs in the locality have already improve tremendously and have probably taken market share. Don't go there until it's been refurbished and provides a good service, previous comments have not been acted upon.
15 Jan 2010 22:51
More popular than the two pubs preceding it from the outskirts, has a range of food as well as Wadworths on the handles - I had a pint of Old Timer which was delicious - 5.8% and only available November and December. A friendly atmosphere, service was generally good, some staff were more efficient than others.
29 Dec 2009 22:15
As said before, the public bar is basic, the lounge bar has made up tables for diners. Beer was Ramsbury and one other, I tried the Ramsbury and it was in good condition. After a bit of conversation, the landlady turned out to be quite pleasant after all - also worth a bit of effort to chat to the locals.
29 Dec 2009 21:53
Great beer at a less than average price, this genuine pub has a most friendly and helpful staff. I was served food in a reasonable time but if the pub was full of customers it would probably have difficulty coping as even the soup is home made. A real log fire and a glass topped well in the public bar floor are added attractions. You'll just have to get here early if you want to be served food, pub closures puts a strain on the remainder, especially if they're up the standard of the Flowerpots. Recommended, I'll be back yet again!
16 Dec 2009 18:50
Although repainted, this pub interior appears to have been unaltered since the 50s/60s - the bar stool upholstery is fading. More of a boozer than anything else with 3 real ales available, my Ringwood was OK. Although they serve food from a reasonable menu, my soup seemed to have come from a Heinz can.
11 Dec 2009 23:18
A pub with quaint bars as it ha been described, worth a visit to see, decent beer with a basic menu. Had a pint here and also some soup - both were very good but the food service could have been better on the day.
9 Dec 2009 21:44
Although the pub has been refurbished, it retains a large bar area when entering. The HSB and London Pride I tried was in excellent condition. Service was prompt and helpful and landlord most convivial. The dining area is towards the rear on a raised floor and the food was good with about average prices for a smart pub. Will return sometime.
9 Dec 2009 21:38
A cosy and traditional pub with log fire and a pleasant and efficient service. The beer is excellent and well kept, tried the Royal Oak and it is to be recommended. I also had problems finding a table as it was so popular. Apparently it was full mainly of walkers who had completed one of other of the many surrounding walks. My soup and bread was excellent too.
5 Dec 2009 01:15
Two Bowman Ales on the handle, a full gastro menu commensurate with the prices, attentive staff and a good village pub atmosphere.
5 Dec 2009 01:07
Had a very good pint of Badger, could have had a Tanglefoot instead. Excellent sandwiches were home made, some salad with the three double wedges! Good service. Not a bad atmosphere, scrubbed tables with a central stove and in tidy order generally throughout. Worth going back to.
26 Nov 2009 22:12
An old traditional compact inn (18th, maybe 17th century) with character, a real log fire burned in the large fireplace open stove when I visited. Four real ales were available to be drawn from casks at the back of the bar - my choice tasted delicious, must come back to try the other ales. My food was also very good, the other customers seemed to be regulars judging by their conversations with the landlord. Everyone seemed to enjoy their food from a good selection which was reasonably priced. Service was prompt and cheerful. Great to find a proper pub serving good ales and food.
7 Nov 2009 19:57
Although I'm not too keen on widescreen TV, darts, etc. I found this pub to be a very friendly with a good atmosphere serving good beer (Doom Bar and 6X) and food at most reasonable prices. Good to see a proper local with regulars greeting each.
31 Oct 2009 16:41
Pub has new tables and chairs since I last visited, plus the toilets have new ceramics and are being painted - not before time! On the handle were London Pride, Doom Bar and Silent Slasher from the Piddle Brewery - I had the Doom Bar and it was very good. My baguette arrived quickly - it was huge and had chips and salad as well - very filling and delicious! This is a genuine country pub with copper kettles and other artefacts suspended from the ceiling, the locals bring their dogs here. Good to see a trditional country pub thriving.
21 Oct 2009 22:38
The Dove Inn, Micheldever Station
Went there for a lunchtime pint and snack - there were three real ales on the handles, I had a Bowman Quiver which was in excellent condition and delicious. The place has been extensively changed from when I went there last - it is much better laid out and decorated but the table I sat at had the heaviest wooden dining chairs I've ever found! Service was both friendly, helpful and quick, the soup I had was apple and some other ingredients - not entirely to my taste but others may have appreciated it more than me. I felt prices were reasonable for a gastro type pub which is attached to an AA 4 star hotel. Will try it again next time I visit Micheldever Tyre Depot!
15 Oct 2009 00:13
Three Horseshoes Inn, Bridport
There were 4 Palmers ales on handles, but no 200 unfortunately. The pub is unrestored but had some character and it's apparently been a supplier of decent food for some ten years now, certainly what I had was delicious. I'll be back for more of both later.
30 Aug 2009 23:35
The Half Moon Inn, Shaftesbury
Visited again recently for an evening meal. Disappointed with the restricted menu and although the scampi and fries was OK, I shan't be going back for dinner again unless they change the menu. They'd run out of the seasonal Lemony Cricket ale, so I'll have to try it some time later. Badger was the only real ale as an alternative and it was in OK too. Service was friendly and efficient.
17 Jul 2009 11:28
Thought this would be a trditional pub until I walked through the door - it's a restaurant in all but name, although they have some details of regiments and local items of interest on the wall. However, there were two Brakspeare beers on the pumps, the bitter I had was very good. The chicken, sweetcorn and asparagus soup was home made and one of the best I've ever had.
17 May 2009 11:27
Well laid out, furniture seems to have been changed since I last visited. Good selection of ales including those brewed on site. However, the food prices are higher than expected, but this is a pub in the New Forest that gets most of its trade in the summer.
2 May 2009 08:52
A most welcoming pub with mainly locals - food I had was most acceptable. Loads of events listed, seems like it's here for ever, no sign of it closing down. The pint of Badger was well kept and just right. Will try it again later.
2 May 2009 08:45
Unspoilt, unrestored New Forest public house which serves large portions of excellent food. The beer is well kept too - I'll be back!
3 Apr 2009 08:26
The Horseshoe inn, Ebbesbourne Wake
Four real ales from barrels behind the bar when we visited, sandwiches were excellent, landlord and his staff were friendly and helpful, a real unchanged local with tools from a bygone age displayed on the walls. Well worth a visit.
3 Apr 2009 08:21
The Foresters Arms, Brockenhurst
We had drink and some soup here - the London Pride was well poured and tasted just as it should, the soup was tasty and the accompanying bread plus salad was great. Good value, pity the bar service was a bit slow when we visited, there appeared to be only one guy serving two bars and taking the food orders. Will be back next time I'm in the area and hungry/thirsty.
3 Apr 2009 08:09
Have to say we didn't eat here, but there was real ale in good condition on the pumps which was well poured. A decaff latte took some time to prepare, and although perhaps not quite as was expected, was good nevertheless. We sat in the area at the front of the pub which was full of mirrors, reproduction Victorian artefacts and comfortable seating - rather cosy and worth going back to for a drink in my opinion. What we both noticed was how clean everything was - as it was a quiet night, the barmaid was polishing the brass and glasswork!
3 Apr 2009 08:01
Seems like a good pub for the locals, in comparison with other pubs it could do with a sympathetic makeover.Beer was OK but what food I saw looked run of the mill.
21 Feb 2009 20:08
Although a large pub/restaurant, it is rambling and gives the appearance of separate bars while giving an old time ambience.Plenty of room for a family gathering. TEA beer from the Hogs Back Brewery is always on and in good condition when I'm there, the food is good and reasonably priced too.
21 Feb 2009 20:03
The Half Moon Inn, Shaftesbury
Although really a restaurant now, the lunchtime soup was inexpensive and good. The Plump Partridge beer although very good was overpriced compared with other beers elsewhere. Service was good and quick though.
21 Feb 2009 19:56
London Pride was fine, atmosphere was great, unfortunately the landlord didn't seem to be having one of his better days when I last visited. Otherwise, this is a very special place to visit, agree with all the comments below.
21 Feb 2009 19:44
The Platform Tavern, Southampton
I've passed this pub for years and never entered - obviously I've been missing something. A full to the brim pint of London Pride was excellently pulled, atmosphere was good and a sudden influx of a dozen or so didn't put the staff off their stride, service was fast. Disappointed with the baguette though, it was a long roll not french bread,
21 Feb 2009 19:39
The Wheatsheaf Inn, Lower Woodford
Part of a chain (forgot which), ideal for large families or group dining. A bit too open for my rustic pub tastes. Beer was OK
21 Feb 2009 19:33
Proper pub with decent ales that serves excellent sandwiches with a varied and excellent menu. Cosy inside bar with tables, plus a more formal restaurant area on the other side of the bar. Both drinkers and eaters made welcome. Highly recommended.
21 Feb 2009 19:31
The Black Horse, Great Durnford
A proper unaltered country pub containing many varied and interesting objects. Well kept beer and a great food menu makes this a pub well worth visiting.
2 Feb 2009 18:43
The Bailey Bridge, Christchurch
Lack of service blamed on staff absence, so wasn't "table table" service as practised in other such Whitbread branded pub restaurants. Chips and peas included in the meals were of poor quality, no one asked us if the meals were OK. There was only Ringwood on tap, the other two ales were off. No what I expected.
4 Jan 2009 22:09
Now under new management (large sign outside), pub has been sympathetically redecorated and when we visited it had a roaring coal fire in the public bar which was a very comfortable (if very hot) bar. Can't remember the beer I had, but it was very good with service to match. Our lunchtime food was good and although not too many pubgoers were present (weather was very foggy) the pub had a nice atmosphere.
23 Dec 2008 22:02
Thought it was a hotel when I walked in, the foyer gave that impression. Nicely furnished throughout, the staff were particularly helpful. Three real ales - Spitfire, Greene King IPA and Henrys IPA were available, I tried the latter and it was excellent. There is a small traditional bar area between the restaurant area and another tabled area which I presumed to be an extension of the bar with tables. I reckon the parsnip with cream soup was the best I'd ever tasted. Other menu items were very reasonably priced and other people's servings looked good. Well worth a return visit.
23 Dec 2008 19:07
A real log fire was burning nicely in the bar, and I chose the Palmers Copper Ale which was very good, although it was just a bit too cold for me. London Pride and two other ales were also available on the hand pumps.The soup and the cafetiere coffee to follow were fine. Glad to see some of the locals were using the bar as well as some passers by. Worth another visit next time I'm passing this way.
13 Dec 2008 20:51
Went in for a drink only, four real ales available, the HSB was superb but so it should be at �3 a pint. Beer was expertly poured to the brim, the bar staff were helpful and courteous. I went in the week, and although there was food being served, I was glad to see the pub filling up from about 7.30pm with drinkers. A traditional interior with beams and a resident ghost (apparently) it has a traditional atmosphere and has escaped gastration so far.
10 Dec 2008 21:28
The Roebuck Inn, Sixpenny Handley
Although there are mainly tables and chairs for dining, there are a number of stools around the bar area, and a succession of locals made their appearances during Saturday afternoon to chat and chaff with their friends and drink the ales. Unfortunately when I visited there were only two real ales available but the Swift One I drank was in good condition. Some money has been spent on uprating the bar and the facilities recently, the gents was in excellent condition although I couldn't see the sign to it. The soup and bread I had was plentiful and good, although I suspect the soup came from a catering pack.
7 Dec 2008 22:55
Must be one of a small number of proper country pubs that still make serving a decent pint a priority. Palmers 200 and another beer were on offer from the handpumps which were behind the bar at a right angle. The broccoli soup and white real bread was tasty . The interior decor comprised various pieces of furniture including tables, chairs and armchairs and although it hadn't been decorated for some time and had faded parquet flooring this all added to the atmosphere. There's two bars and also a 12 seat dining bar - must try this pub again soon!
16 Nov 2008 23:57
From the outside, this looked like a traditional pub, although it had a small raised area with three tables. However, the inside has been turned into a gastropub with formal dining area, an armchair area and some italianate stools at the bar. I would have continued onward to find a traditional country pub, but time was short so I settled. There was only one beer on, Sharps, but it was acceptable, and the light menu although not extensive was fine. My bacon and brie on home made bread with salad was very good, and the cafetiere of coffee afterwards was excellent and very good value. There were up to four locals at the bar, they seemed happy to be there, and after getting over my initial reactions to the place, so was I.
12 Oct 2008 17:41
This pub has been completely made over, it's now a gastro pub/restaurant - the lounge area has leather settees and there are now dining areas with glasses and napkins at the ready. The toilets have been modernised - well done, but although the landlord believed that the overall character had been retained and everywhere is now clean and no longer interestingly shabby shabby (there's still exposed beams and fireplace)there was hardly anyone there when I visited midweek, although passing by on a Saturday some time later there appeared to be a crowd preparing for a wedding. Not a typical village pub anymore. The beer was fine but I can't remember what it was.
27 Sep 2008 20:48
The Plough Inn is no longer a pub or an inn for the casual drinker who may wish to eat there - it's a restaurant. As a casual caller seeking a pint and bar snack, I was extremely disappointed by the interior - all tables were made up with cutlery and wine glasses and there was no trace of its historic nature as I entered the door and stood at the minimalist bar. As the weather was good, I sat outside in the sun. If the weather had been bad, I'd have gone elsewhere. I can't vouch for the quality of the meals, from previous comments it appears that there are enough people who want this sort of experience.
11 Jun 2008 17:45
A pleasure to find a pub that hasn't been modernised and hasn't been gastrated. Black Sheep, Hobgoblin and one other was available on the handle when I visited - the food looked as good as my beer which was well served and taste quenching.
29 Sep 2007 20:35
The Hampshire Bowman, Dundridge
An honest, no frills pub that has a varying selection of proper beers from the barrels behind the bar. Excellent staff who serve a full pint and who welcome everyone including locals, motorcyclists, walkers, etc. Best to go midweek when it's not packed.
21 Aug 2007 22:47
The Swan, Enford
Rushed in just about 2.20 one weekday afternoon, the only other customers were a couple finishing their lunch. There were some 5 different ales on the handles which looked appetising - unfortunately I couldn't have one and was in a hurry so I had a coffee - excellent it was too, with a 2 cup cafetiere. The pub sign is now suspended over the road on the gantry once again, the pub interior is from a bygone age yet smart. Service was pleasant and helpful, I must go back to sample the ales andsd atmosphere some other time
3 Mar 2017 22:23