Dean Park Inn, Bournemouth

I used to go here for a quick after-work pint. This was when I lived round the corner earlier this year. What struck me about this pub was how uncomfortable the place is inside. There is nowhere to hide from the projectors showing sporting events (which they always do). The air-con is super efficient, and super noisy (I'd rather have a bit of smoke, although I hate smoky pubs). You can go to the bar and stand there waiting for ages, and the bar staff will just stand there uninterested. It was all the females (just an observation, mind) - the male staff were helpful enough.

However, every pub has an up side. The beer is excellent, as you'd expect from a Cask Marque. And it's not unpleasant to sit outside (despite the main junction). Go there for a real pint in summer. I'd go there again purely because Bournemouth is so rubbish for real pubs (maybe I'm not looking hard enough).

28 Dec 2006 16:51

Bar Vin, Bournemouth

Sadly, this is my local. Sadly, because I'm used to much better pubs (either the 'old and mucky' or 'gastropub' sort), and Bournemouth seems devoid of these. However, in the vicinity of Old Christchurch Road, Bar Vin does quite well. Staff are always friendly, and there are plenty of seating options for muso's, sports fans, groups of friends and couples who want to curl up on the sofa.

Furthermore they not only serve ales, but quite well-kept too. Currently Ringwood 49'er and Fuller's London Pride. As others have said, much much better than the Shitten Tree up the road.

Clientele seems to be those who just want to have a drink and a laugh, rather than a punch-up. But I do tend to go alone and on a Sunday, so don't really know what it's like on a busy evening.

28 Dec 2006 16:40