Cricketers, Blandford Forum

The change of management has made a huge difference in my opinion. The menu has been simplified and dispensed with some of the more bizarre concoctions that had crept in. Food is generally good quality although one or two of the pasta dishes on a theme night we went to were pretty average. Specials menu changes regularly while the wine list has been simplified and reflects a more worldly palate. There are also 3-4 good quality local ales - Piddle, Ringwood, Butcombe and one other when last we went. Very welcoming landlord/lady and staff are attentive without bothering you. Everything a good village pub should be in my opinion.

17 Nov 2008 17:23

The Langton Arms, Tarrant Monkton

This pub used to me my local - good beer, good food at decent prices with good staff. All I can say for it now is good location but even that is being jeopardised by some building foundations in the car park which the builders seem to have deserted months ago. My sister ate here more recently than me and spent �50.00 on very ordinary (microwaved) fish & chips for two and a couple of drinks. You can eat a top notch 2 course meal at the Castleman in Chettle or the Museum in Farnham for less than this and they are the real McCoy! What is more, if you go here on any night there is hardly anybody around which is why all the other comments refer to lack of atmosphere. How anyone can say this was forced on the pub by the fire is talking tosh. The landlady is simply more interested in servicing overspill from the Museum and wedding parties - hence the London prices. The fact that locals all congregate at the True Lovers Knot or Museum speaks volumes in my opinion If ever there was a pub/restaurant that has lost it's way and need old Gordon Ramsey to sort it out and let the Landlady know a few home truths this is it!

17 Nov 2008 17:08