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Three Tuns, Bransgore

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user reviews of the Three Tuns, Bransgore

please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.

The Three Tuns rates alongside the best pubs I have eaten in. This is high end food not your basic pub grub so expect to pay the price. I had the wild duck at £14.95 & it was excellent. We only had one slight criticism & that was about the portion size of the salmon dish.

The range of real ales on offer is very good. My wife had the Black Jack an excellent porter. All the beer is in top class condition.

All in all a lovely comfortable welcoming pub with attentive staff. Also if you only want a drink there is a small bar that will accommodate you.

Well worth a visit. My rating an 8.5
John.T - 3 Feb 2013 12:38
Ok but pricey food, smallish portions and slightly odd menu. Trading on its previous reputation I think. Beer quality good.
SPB - 30 Oct 2012 08:56
Visit this pub quite often but have noticed that hardly any female barstaff of late. Call me old fashioned but I prefer to see a barmaid. That said I cannot commend Dan enough for the excellent standard of the ales and lagers. He is worth his weight in gold and is always polite and friendly.

Menu could do with some new ideas and the bar tariff is not far off hotel prices but that is my only criticism.

Owner never seems to be around.
Foodforthought - 16 Sep 2011 15:26
may be champagnestyle is the owner of the three tuns ????
rubberduck1212 - 12 Sep 2010 21:57
Lovely setting, friendly staff. overall a great cosy pub with good weel kept beer.
ec123 - 17 Jul 2010 11:50
Been back here again this week as I was down for half term. I have to say I read the last comment and found it quite surprising. I have never ahd a bad meal in this pub, nor have I ever thought it wasnt value for money. Why did you not take it back at the time and say that you werent happy with it? I have met the owner on several occassions and he has always been open to critisim etc. I acn only summize that he wasn't there at the time, becasue he would have rectified any concerns that you would of had. I have seen him deal with people with before anf prides himself on trying to provide the best. I suggets you write to him and highlight your plight.
For me, I have just had fresh halibut for lunch, followed by raosted figs and I have to say it was washed down with a pint of Exmoor Gold which was delicious.
I would recomend this pub to anyone who visits Bransgore - dont miss out on the food, the atmosphere and the people. I have said before if I could move this up North closer to my home I would be there as much as I could!!
champagnestyle - 18 Feb 2010 14:27
Visited between Christmas and New Yr. Good range of beers on - in reasonable condition. The Exmoor Gold was ok and the Ballard's Midhurst Mild was lovely.

However, not so good in other respects. Food - quite disappointing. It was �7 for what was described as a club sandwich. The contents were very poor - sliced chicken, not proper chicken breast and anaemic looking bacon that could not have been any thiner - it was nearer to ham slices. It was served between two slices of buttered bread. A club sandwich should be three slices of toasted bread with generous filling. For an example see the Waitrose website.

When the plates were collected I was asked the usual "everything alright?". When i said politely that it was a disppointing club sandwich, the immediate reaction was "don't you know what's in one?" !!!

As for the atmosphere - well, we were sat in the Snug. And the whole time we were there the barmaid's boyfriend stood hanging around at the bar watching her working. Then his mate turned up to join in the waiting / watching.

Someone told us they thought it has changed hands recently - if it has it would seem to be for the worse. 6/10 based on the beer.
Old_King_Cole - 9 Jan 2010 18:48
After a long period of absence it was great to be back at our retreat in the New Forest and back to eat some great food at the Tuns. I cant believe that this pub can produce food of such a high standard consistently. We ate here three times last week and during the latter part of the week they changed the menu to include lobster! What an amazing menu, mouthwatering to say the least. Whilst we have been away they have been reviewing he real ales and now have 2 diferent ales ech week and in conversation with the owner, Nigel, it transpires that they are going to get as many different real ales as they can. I was lucky enough to have an excellent pint of St Austell Tribute and later Exmoor Gold, two beers which are delightful - please move nearer to us guys we would love to come everyday!!!
champagnestyle - 23 Oct 2009 06:25
We had our wedding at this pub after having a sunday lunch there. The food is incredible and the service great. It has lovely outside space and the wedding planner Rebecca was great on the day (although not an official wedding planner with a clipboard), main wedding in marquee and barn.
We had a hog roast and salad which was very reasonable.
Could not recommend going here more for a pint or a full on sunday roast. It is rare in this area to get fantastic good british food at a reasonable price. It is London standards.
Great ringwood ale.
Highly recommended for a private celebration.
scottvicks - 28 Sep 2009 19:30
What a place! Atmosphere, polite staff and food to rival many a top restaurant. We ate here twice during a weeks break to the New Forest such was the quality. Good in all weathers and happy for a well-behaved 3 year old to be in the Snug bar!
cmh4135 - 10 Aug 2009 14:21
Dropped in to the Three Tuns over the late May Bank Holiday for Sunday Evening dinner. Excellent pub, great service, great food, good beer. Their restaurant area was full so we were offered a table in the bar with our 3-year old son (which was nice of them), although we opted to sit in the excellent garden as it was a warm evening.

We'll definitely go back as we're frequent visitors to the New Forest.
cscoggins - 26 May 2009 19:20
We were back here again last week, we agree with the last comments we really like the new manager and the partner has always been very polite and willing creating a great atmosphere. Fortuantely we have not seen the welsh one and thats been a blessing really. Such a lovely pub and the food has got even better. Dan has changed some of the beers and they are so well kept. I only wish this was my local and not just my holiday outlet! Keep up the good work boys its a great pub and it gets better.
champagnestyle - 10 Mar 2009 08:26
Having known the tuns for a number of years and observed its development since the "new management" took over i feel it is my right to comment. I went to the tuns recently for the first time in ages and brought some friends with me, the atmosphere was relaxed and the beer excellent! The new bar manager, Dan, was polite and welcoming and the staff were all helpful. I have observed some of the comments about the Welsh one and have to agree wholeheartedly! It is indeed a great shame that despite all of the posted comments he chooses to carry on in this fashion, save to say peter stay at home and nigel and dan carry on the good work!
bigchef - 16 Dec 2008 18:23
Went to the Tuns for a meal last night. We all had three courses and the food was literally to die for. Red Onion tartlette and scallops we excellent. Two of us had the Sea Bass and the other Rack of Lamb which were both cooked to perfection. Had Pavlova and Creme Brulee which were also excellent.

Portion sizes were just right to get through the three courses.

No sight of any management but the staff were friendly, polite and very efficient. They seem to work well without any direction and looked happy to be at work.
Foodforthought - 24 Jul 2008 11:17
Visited last night far a drink. Very busy and full restaurant but managed to get a seat in bar. Great atmosphere, staff seemed very relaxed and happy without the Welsh influence.

Pork Roulade was first class.
Foodforthought - 28 Jun 2008 12:05
Visited this pub at the weekend. We have been before and the food and friendliness of the bar staff is excellent.

Not very impressed with the Welsh manager though. Seems to be rude to his bar staff who clearly do a very good job.



forestgirl - 23 Jun 2008 15:55
Was back here last week again, still the best pb by far. Visited the lamb as suggested by a local shop, wont be going again was awful and should have learnt the first time I went there! So the Tuns evening dinner was superb, a pork roulade served with vegetables was delicious and topped off with a sticky toffee pudding. The good landlord was off and it appears the welsh one was the awkard customer in the corner with his girlfriend, continuing to treat his staff with contempt despite their best efforts. Welsh guy should be in another industry, he clearly is not cut out for this trade. Talk of the town locally
champagnestyle - 6 Jun 2008 18:32
Great food, great staff (esp wed evenings!). Bar staff very friendly, helpful and entertaining, nothing is too much trouble.

The welshman needs to appreciate his staff and stop interrupting them when they are trying to take orders for food. Ringwood Best is first class.
Foodforthought - 2 May 2008 13:18
We visit this pub quite often for an evening meal. Always found the food pretty good and the staff are generally friendly. Having just moved to the area, we will be taking friends to this pub.
cocodemer - 30 Apr 2008 19:22
Visited this pub today after reading a review in compass magazine that said they had been awarded two aa rosetes. We were very dissapointed, service was poor to say the least and the food no better. We all had roast dinner which we heard to be very good but unfortunately this was not the case. The beef was overcooked and looked and tasted like it had been re-heated in water, the lamb was overcooked and chewy and once we had found the potato's (all three pieces) they trasted like they had been boiled and thrown in the oven for ten minutes, not good. all this was after we had waited nearly an hour and when it did arrive we weren't even checked on to see if everything was ok. Considering what this pub once was, it has gone down hill a lot. Such a shame for locals and visitors alike, needless to say we won't be going back.
arsenal_caterham - 27 Apr 2008 18:16
Dining pub that still has it's roots in former times. Locals still drink there, and there is a good choice of drinks.
There were five cask beers available earlier today incuding Deuchers IPA and TT Landlord, backed up by the usual choice of lagers etc. No problems with the quality either.
The specials menu is kept short and in half a dozen visits the food has never been worse than excellent, but it is expensive. But you don't get this level of food on the cheap. Never have, never will.
The service is good but the pub was busy today and there were delays, nothing serious though. A small problem I had was dealt with quickly and with a smile.
I most certainly will be back.
Runningdog - 20 Apr 2008 21:35
better than a 5.3...went there during a stay at a local caravan site.food was really good although you could argue pickled veg is over used although nice.the scallops i had were the biggest ive had for sometime,soft shell crap was a winner although not sure if the batter was tempura,too heavy.the ale was good and regulars and hosts friendly.
petenalfiedog - 16 Apr 2008 21:17
Haven't been able to get down for a while, but saw the comment earlier - no I am not related or friends of the landlord! I have a holiday home and frequent the pub wheneever I can. Was there 3 weeks ago with the english gentleman landlord who was first class, and the food was superb. I have travelled extensively and you have to go a long way to beat this pub!
champagnestyle - 29 Feb 2008 10:11
visited here on New Years Eve. very good beer offered and served.
didnt eat, so can't comment on that aspect.
the young man behind the bar made a woeful Gin Fizz for us, so stick with the ale.....
interior was a little formulaic, typical of many 'improved pubs'.
overall though, I'd definitely visit again.
alehouses - 2 Jan 2008 13:10
We are very surprised at some of the adverse comments as we visited this pub today and had one of the best lunchtime meals we have had. The food was excellent, the landlord most welcoming and the staff gave service with a smile. We live in the north east of the county and lunch out twice a week at different establishments. We are only sorry we live such a distance away as the Three Tuns at Bransgore would definitely be one of our regular watering holes.
Barney9 - 30 Nov 2007 19:28
Sometimes I wonder as to what people want from a Pub! Generally this place is well run and has good food although I have been let down eating. The overall is one of great character and good bar service - reasonable prices. Food, when the junior chefs are on, can be disappointing and the prices are not run of the mill Pub prices [remember I said reasonable] so this grates, but, when running with full strength the food can be excellent. Why would you want to go to other local pubs whose food has not changed after a major refit?
foxyhimself - 28 Nov 2007 21:09
Overpriced and over-rated. Is "champagnestyle" a friend of the owner?
bsw - 18 Nov 2007 12:31
Why do people still go here? Nothing attracts me to it anymore.
anonymous - 2 Aug 2007 11:58
I must have caught the ringwood at the end of the barrel.
anonymous - 28 Jul 2007 17:46
I always rather foolishly believed that being part of a chain was an essential pre-requisite for being a chain pub. Hey ho.
RageofKlugman - 27 Jul 2007 08:31
The Tuns has never done food all day - that would make it a "Chain" pub, heaven help us all if that happens - you could have phoned ahead! As for recommnding the Crown for someone wanting food when you dont serve it - well I thought that was good customer service and it shows that there is a community spirit left in the village.
anonymous - 27 Jul 2007 08:19
Interesting comment about the beer, spoke to the owner (not the welsh landlord) who tells me that Ringwood have done extensive quality control on the beer at the pub and beleive it to be one of the best pints in the area, I have never had a problem, nor have I ever found the food tasteless. Was down on holiday last week, and despite the rain, the highlight was lunch and dinner at the Tuns, along with its many followers, those who appreciate home cooked food. I will be back down in Sept and looking forward to it!!
champagnestyle - 27 Jul 2007 08:13
Went on sat afternoon - no food!
As a 'destination' pub (and yes we know the weathers rubbish at the moment but its meant to be summer)couldnt believe they dont do food on a weekend afternoon, and it was only two thirty pm!
Not even a sandwich.
Bar staff told us crown was open all day (not a great way to encourage business) so went there - beer cheaper, attitude much better, food ok for what youre paying for it. So if youre having a pleasant drive round the forest and you want to stop at a country pub for a bite to eat on a saturday afternoon - dont bother here. Wont be back.

anonymous - 26 Jul 2007 14:13
Visited this pub after reading rave reviews. Was very dissapointed. High prices are not the same as high quality. Meals were tasteless and not as described. Ringwood Best was not the best pint I have ever had. Maybe I caught them on the head chefs night off (Wednesday)
anonymous - 22 Jun 2007 13:55
Visited again last night after The Crown, still think this is best pub - new landlady - didn't see her? But the welshman on holiday again! Beer is good here, food is delicious, just avoid the boyo!!!
champagnestyle - 2 Jun 2007 06:37
Excellent pub. New landlady just started and she was very professional; has brightened the whole place. Food and service was of a very high standard. Thouroughly recommend a visit.
ianj13 - 17 Apr 2007 16:30
Doesn't have the feel of a locals pub, rather cliquey clientele, if your into golfing, skiing and sucking up to the owners then yes you would fit in here. overpriced menu and limited choice, lets hope the Crown when it re opens tries to appeal to all villages and not the privileged few.
anonymous - 27 Mar 2007 16:45
Nice pub, nuff said
anonymous - 22 Jan 2007 17:52
Ate there once,unfortunately we had bad service too, the food was ok
Yes and your not the first one to mention the landlord (as below).
Still, its a nice pub that has a bit of charm left unlike those disgusting chain type places (The Crown) or wine bar look alikes (The Lamb)..... be grateful!
Does get really very busy at times so be warned if you want a seat!
hairybiker - 9 Nov 2006 21:05
Went back again last week, have to say the food was first class, the service and atmosphere on the night was outstanding - it was full up! No sign of the welshmam fortunately, on holiday I was told - good better that way !!! Would recommend but watch for the landlord
champagnestyle - 27 Sep 2006 19:22
I have to disagree with the other comments on this page. I live in the village and out of the choice this pub is by far the BEST for food. I have tried numerous meals and a roast. I am also very fond of the thatchers that they have on offer at the moment - a gorgous cider. Basically it is the three tuns (an independantyl run country pub) or a brewers fayre down the road.... you decide!!!
imabeastie - 25 Sep 2006 00:14
visited this place last week, food was excellent and atmosphere was first class, shame about the welsh landlord and his mates on the next table, spoilt by the way he spoke to his staff and his behaviour, far from proffessional - shame such a gorgeous place
champagnestyle - 11 Jun 2006 21:50
I visited the Three Tuns and it is overated, the service was terrible and was very poor value for money.
anonymous - 23 May 2006 15:19
A change of tenancy seems to have happened in the last couple of months with a resultant improvement. I have found that those who previously had condign criticism for the place seem to have been impressed with with the new brooms that seem hard at work restoring an element of former glory.
anonymous - 16 Oct 2005 22:08
Always find here a bit hit and miss, its so picturesque outside but 1 in 3 visits is usually really poor.
pubcustomer - 8 Aug 2005 11:03
Very disappointing experience! We visited the 3 Tuns a few times for dinns with friends & found the food okay, service variable. However, the day after our wedding in May we arranged to meet a few of our guests here for lunch & the service was appalling. No point in complaining to the landlord as he was the worst! Everything was too much trouble, he was rude to several of our group & made everyone feel most unwelcome. I was embarrassed to have taken close friends & relations to the 3 Tuns - I suggest he is in the wrong career & might consider retraining as a traffic warden!
Anny - 21 Jun 2005 11:37
The Three Tuns is definately the best pub in Bransgore. It serves a good pint in a pleasanrt atmosphere. I've not eaten there so cannot comment on the food.
Crispin Farbrother - 7 Nov 2004 19:33
Went for a special occasion meal and was really disappointed. The food took an hour to arrive and the extremely small portions were matched with the extremely large prices!
Sam - 28 Oct 2004 21:51
By coincidence, I met the chef of the Three Tuns (Fred), at a New Age wedding in the New Forest. I told him about his nouvelle cruisine, and how it did not match the decor. I do not think he liked to hear that - but there are those of us (peasants) who prefer pub nosh. I my opinion he should be working in a fancy restaurant in London. Fred lives in a cottage within walking distance of the Three Tuns - and maybe he prefers the New Forest. Anyway, do not be fooled by the appearance.
Peter Froude - [email protected] - 6 Oct 2004 15:27
Very much an over-rated place. Foodwise, the menu is pretentious and fussy, the portions are small, and the prices more suited to a star-rated restaurant than a village pub. Drinks are overpriced. Definitely somewhere to avoid unless you have a large bank balance and a small appetite.
Mike - 12 Oct 2003 18:47
the tunnes is the only good pub in bransgore and they know it so they over charge a riddiculous amount. However I can't help but go there because it's pretty
anonymous - 13 Jun 2003 15:57
Excellent food although the starters are a bit pricy. Superb ale also. Timothy Taylors Landlord was very well kept. If you are planning to eat suggest you book early as The Three Tuns is very popular. Large beer garden out the back. Ample car parking room. Staff are efficient and amiable. Recommended.
John - [email protected] - 7 May 2003 13:01

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