BITE user comments - Old_King_Cole
Comments by Old_King_Cole
I'm sure that on a warm sunny Spring day you could sit outside on the benches and soak up the view and the atmosphere. However on a windy Sunday lunchtime in Autumn it doesn't really work.
There's just two tables in the central proper pub part of the building. The rest is all given over to dining tables. Lucky for us we got there at noon and got one of the two tables. Someone already occupied the other one.
Got a half of overly cold Doom Bar that tasted like the pump hadn't been pulled through that morning.
A family came in with a dog and were clearly put out that there wasn't a table free. Dogs only allowed in centre of pub. Then some others came in with a dog - ditto problem.
Had a pint of Doom Bar that tasted OK as others had ordered some by now.
First dog started yapping at second dog. Really annoying. Non existent atmosphere deteriorated further.
We changed plans and decided to leave. There was a scramble to get the table we were vacating. Could hardly get out for them now blocking the way. As we left the two groups were starting to argue over who should now have the table.
They could ban dogs inside. That'd help for a start. Pub is already rated 5.9 - I can't rate it lower due to the nice location. But it didn't feel like a six today. So I won't rate it.
We went somewhere else but it was no better unfortunately.
17 Nov 2015 21:46
A real gem of a pub. The only real one on the quay.
Good beers on these days (Proper Job and Double Drop plus Ringwood) and the food is fantastic. Friendly and efficient staff.
There's the usual Dorset arrangements with toilets (see previous review) - one for ladies and one for gents (it's outside accessed from the alley). A definite step back in time.
Overall a 8/10.
10 Nov 2015 22:39
Just seemed too busy and slightly not the right atmosphere when we went in on a Saturday night.
But then I'd discovered the Belvedere and the Grapes on previous days by then. And they're both a different kettle of fish but still with real ale.
10 Nov 2015 22:29
Bustling and sociable are an apt description. Well worth a visit and a drink or three.
10 Nov 2015 22:23
Wow what a fantastic place. Classic local pub with its 19th century interior intact. Good regularly changing range of beers.
10 Nov 2015 22:17
The Talbot Inn, Berwick St John
Outstandingly good example of a well run but down to earth country pub. Superb beers and had a lovely meal on one of our two visits this year. Seems to thrive on a thankfully broad church of customer types.
10 Nov 2015 22:10
Still a solid performer but perhaps a bit lacking (it's too corporate) when compared to the absolutely fantastic competition in Settle and Giggleswick.
Now has a nice coffee counter that I used every day of our holiday. So a 7/10.
10 Nov 2015 22:00
Lovely place when we visited in September. Makes a nice change from the other pub like pubs! Seems to be all about beer now, no food. Had some interesting ones on. Friendly landlord running the bar.
10 Nov 2015 21:56
Yep fantastic. In fact it is so popular that it's sometimes hard to get a seat to eat your dinner.
Had some nice local beer on a couple of occasions that had a railway theme. Beers can include some dark ones and these can be difficult to find in this locale. One of Settle's best pubs.
10 Nov 2015 21:53
Still great in September this year. Very popular local and hotel.
10 Nov 2015 21:47
The Black Horse Hotel, Giggleswick
Great traditional pub in a lovely setting. Best place in area for Timothy Taylor Landlord and we had a lovely meal.
It's also great to meet the same barman every year when we make our Pilgrimage to North Yorkshire from the souff of England!
26 Oct 2015 21:52
Oops I meant "we ate something non-descript" - Freudian slip. Arf arf.
26 Oct 2015 21:40
Visited early summer. It's off the beaten track in what looks like a pleasant village. The garden is getting overgrown and is on the slide. The garden furniture is looking very tired.
Beer was OK but not quite cold enough (poured from kegs being bar) but in good condition. We are something non-descript that we can't remember.
Went for a lovely walk along the Fleet afterwards.
When we got back two hours later for a soft drink our plates were still on the table in the garden where we left them. No wonder there's wasps.
The above may sound damning but despite all of this I'd still recommend a visit. It's probably how a lot of places were run in the 70s.
The locations great and they're trying with the beer. I do wonder if that is where too much of the time and interest is going.
It would not take much to nudge this place in the right direction. A generous 7/10.
26 Oct 2015 21:38
A long long time ago this was a brilliant pub. We visited earlier in year after disastrous visit to Bricklayers nearby. Whilst it's not a proper boozer any more, the beer was at the right temperature and there were some nice homemade crisps.
A kinda corporate souless homogenised version of a pub but reliable. And no you can't sit and see the river any more unless eating. On the day it was 6/10.
26 Oct 2015 21:28
Visited in late Spring on way to rugby - a Saturday lunchtime. Got there just after 12 noon to find chairs still on tables and floor wet from washing. Only one real beer on (north of 5%) and not even any keg craft beers. Hardly any lager on.
Awful. Apparently the landlord was away for a few days - what sort of an excuse is that?
Over the year's this place has got worse and worse at every visit. I won't go again. 2/10 for old time's sake.
26 Oct 2015 21:21
Great place. Good beer and nice food at good prices. Nice layout inside and a beer garden and a few parking spaces. Motorcycle friendly. Nice friendly staff on two different occasions. Just what a proper pub should be 8/10.
27 Apr 2015 23:56
Stopped on a Sunday late afternoon on our way home. A "local smart pub, for local smart people. We'll have no trouble here". Fontmell strikes me as a rather "nice" place to live.
Pleasant enough welcome. Three real ales on. Tried one that may have been named after the pub or something. An RCH one and Courage Directors were also on offer. Not a cheap round.
Very nice high quality furnishing - especially the red and blue stripe upholstery. Nice little seating area further in on way to the restaurant.
I sense the car park just needs a minimum height barrier to stop anything other than Range Rovers etc parking in it. Need to make another visit sometime to be fair.
9 Feb 2015 19:55
The Crab and Lobster Tap, Ventnor
Yep superb place up a side street. Somehow looks a bit like a provincial 1950s railway station from the outside.
Nice furniture with newspapers / mags to read. The sun was pouring in the window on a summer's afternoon.
Decent enough beer.
But the bus takes solo long to get here from the Yarmouth ferry - groan.
11 Nov 2014 21:46
Still one of the best town centre / the quay area pubs. The London Pride and Seafarers are always in great condition. Most staff I've dealt with seem fine. Must have been someone's off day when previous reviewer visited. A shame.
11 Nov 2014 21:29
Yep still great despite changes to staff / management. Shame the Itchen Valley Godfathers is no longer on.
Not 100% certain about the bright red leather armchairs though!
Unusually, they have a loyalty card scheme. Me and mate managed to get the necessary nine stamps and get 10th free in the one visit.
11 Nov 2014 21:24
Well worth the walk from the station. A great place with Bass beer in good nick.
11 Nov 2014 21:16
Sorry to say that I feel money has been spent ruining what was my favourite pub in Bridport. Went in 10 p.m. on a Friday night and there was hardly anyone in there. That says something.
11 Nov 2014 20:56
Yes as said below, main bar has a nice bohemian feel. Friendly staff and nice beer. Good prices.
Recommended.
11 Nov 2014 20:53
We didn't like it either this summer. Too much money spent on fancy upholstery and probably no attention to the basics.
I don't like going in bars mid-afternoon to see couples playing tonsil-tennis on stools at the bar. He had to stop though, so he could have a loud conversation on his mobile.
I sorely regretted walking past the bunk barn as mentioned below.
11 Nov 2014 20:48
Visited this summer. It's still fantastic. Very friendly bar staff and nice food. Wish I could visit more often but I live 300 miles away.
Easily 8/10 or more.
11 Nov 2014 20:35
Stopped off in Stafford overnight this summer on our way up north. I love this pub. Had a couple of really nice session beers and watched first match of the World Cup.
A proper boozer that seems to have a good cross-section of customers. A great 8/10.
11 Nov 2014 20:17
The Butchers Hook, Southampton
Visited on Sunday. Phoned before we went and were told four real ales on. When we got there the two session beers (a 3.4% and a 3.8℅) were finished. Two mid-strength left - one an odd IPA. I had a red beer, I don't normally like them. Glad I just had a half. It was in good condition. The bottled stout was pleasant enough but not so nice to have another. We went off to Talking Heads.
It's an interesting interior with lovely original tiling. The seating, the layout and general vibe were all great. Certainly a positive addition to the Soton beer scene.
BUT I can't see how bringing in four casks on each Monday and running them all out is supposed to work. I agree there's not much room but surely having a second barrel of a session beer isn't too much to ask. There's shelves of empties at the moment.
Overall 7/10.
Interestingly the previous very positive reviewer has never written any others.
11 Nov 2014 20:07
The Black Horse Hotel, Giggleswick
Proper solid pub. Beer in good nick. Food nice. Could be a little livelier. Definitely worth a visit when staying in Settle or Gig.
23 Oct 2014 21:12
wow what a transformation! We used to avoid this place when visiting Settle but now it is one of the best places. lovely beer and lovely food. 8/10.
23 Oct 2014 19:50
Unfortunately you can't stop progress and in this lovely hotel / pub the separate and traditional dining room has been lost. also the menu has been jazzed up.
The beers still good though and that's what counts yeah?
23 Oct 2014 19:44
Stayed here for two nights. Great place with a lovely beer garden over the road. But it is very much a restaurant that sells beer rather than a pub that sells food. Just drive down the hill to the Carpenters for a real pub experience.
Rock Inn 7/10 including the accommodation.
18 Mar 2014 22:08
The Rugglestone Inn, Widecombe in the Moor
Great sitting outside the front door on a Friday lunchtime. Unfortunately way too busy when we walked back there on the Saturday lunchtime. Oh well.
Still, a nice place 7/10.
18 Mar 2014 22:03
The Carpenters Arms, Ilsington
What a crackin' place when we visiited last Saturday evening. Lucky to get a couple of seats by the lovely fire. Two beers from Otter - Ale and Amber, and Dartmoor Jail.
Seems to be a well run community local. Worth seeking out. 8/10.
18 Mar 2014 21:59
The Liberty Bounds, Tower Hill
This was our second pub of the night after the nearby (awesome) The Ship. The contrast could not be more stark.
For this place the positives were - a good table with great view of the Tower Of London; very quick food and the prices.
On the downside, eight police came in to remove roudy customers; blokes in the loo having very intense conversation before going into a cubicle together to (presumably) take drugs; the general atmosphere, and inept bar staff (told him twice we wanted slimline tonic; and then the barman told me he'd been instructed to put lime cordial in gin and tonics - surely a slice of lime?).
Feeling generous - a 5/10 at best. A 4 would be more like it.
26 Dec 2013 20:18
The Liberty Bounds, Tower Hill
This was our second pub of the night after the nearby (awesome) The Ship. The contrast could not be more stark.
For this place the positives were - a good table with great view of the Tower Of London; very quick food and the prices.
On the downside, eight police came in to remove roudy customers; blokes in the loo having very intense conversation before going into a cubicle together to (presumably) take drugs; the general atmosphere, and inept bar staff (told him twice we wanted slimline tonic; and then the barman told me he'd been instructed to put lime cordial in gin and tonics - surely a slice of lime?).
Feeling generous - a 5/10 at best. A 4 would be more like it.
26 Dec 2013 20:18
Awesome little pub 8/10. Nice and friendly staff. Visited on the last Friday before Christmas; many places nearby were packed but The Ship was pleasantly half full.
Nice decor and layout. Had a couple of well kept pints from Elgoods. I wish we'd stayed in here but the other half wanted to eat elsewhere so we ended up in the nearby Weatgerspoons. You could not get a worse contrast!!
26 Dec 2013 19:39
Visited in March (bit slow on updating my reviews!) - this is a nice traditional boozer. There were not many people in there this Sunday lunchtime. Friendly landlord, nice layout, I had a few pints of a Hydes of Manchester seasonal beer in good condition.
There is another pub directly opposite! 7/10.
25 Jul 2011 20:51
Help going mad - wrote the review below about the other King Rufus at Eling - sorry!!
25 Jul 2011 20:49
The Greyhound Inn, Sydling St Nicholas
I agree with the last comment. Food orientated but friendly. In fact I was pleasantly suprised as to how good it was. I thought it might be too far removed from being a real pub. We chose it as it was part way along our day's walking route. Nice outdoor seating on a v. sunny day.
I asked about the house beer and was told it is St Austell Tinners. They also had Yeovil Ales BST which was also v. good. There was a third choice as well.
Both of us enjoyed very nice food from the lighter bites menu.
25 Jul 2011 20:47
Great pub both inside and out- has a small terrace with a few straight across the river; you watch pleasure boats zoom past. It is in a nice part of Wapping - an easy walk from st Katherine's Dock.
Only two of the four real beers displayed were actually available - London Pride and Doombar. The LP was good. Quite expensive drinks but when coupled with the two for one luchtime meal offer it works out as good value.
25 Jul 2011 20:40
Popped in late on a Thursday evening during an overnight in Stafford. This is a real pub - no doubt about it; the style and layout of the place and a good range of beers on. I had a couple of pints of good condition Kelham Island Easy rider. Overall 7.5/10.
25 Jul 2011 20:35
Visited in March (bit slow on updating my reviews!) - this is a nice traditional boozer. There were not many people in there this Sunday lunchtime. Friendly landlord, nice layout, I had a few pints of a Hydes of Manchester seasonal beer in good condition.
There is another pub directly opposite! 7/10.
25 Jul 2011 20:27
A proper pub with a Bohemian crowd. Nice and lively on a Friday night. Friendly staff and a great range of beers.
Yes it is scruffy round the edges but that is part of its appeal.
22 Jan 2011 17:51
Upmarket corner pub in the inner suburbs. Has a good range of the usual nationally-available real ales. Good quality food.
22 Jan 2011 17:35
A pleasant modern take on the city centre pub. A wide range of Bath Ales. We had some lovely good-value food.
22 Jan 2011 17:29
On our recent return trip to Bath this was the first pub we made a bee-line for. The place is wonderful - as usual I enjoyed the Bass served straight from the barrel.
22 Jan 2011 17:26
A Saturday lunchtime - a nice place to stop off on a walk. Good range of beers (four on) including Cumberland Ale and Marstons Pedigree We had nice sandwiches and chips - not cheap but, on balance, worth it.
Very pleasant and friendly staff. Nice layout inside; there is a proper drinking-only area right in the middle by the bar but the regulars had got there first when we arrived.
15 Jan 2011 19:35
The Wheatsheaf Hotel, New Milton
A good solid proper pub. Still manages to retain a nice distinct public bar style area although it is an open plan pub. The lunch was pretty reasonable on a Sunday lunchtime. Beer is a tad expensive but maybe offset by wine cheaper than usual?
Still has great stained glass windows and some interesting original tiling outside. Generally an older crowd but some younger customers as well.
15 Jan 2011 19:29
This place could be good but groan what a disappointment. We went in on a very busy wet Sunday. The pub is in the Good Beer Guide. Two youngsters wearing black shirts behind the bar - never a good sign.
Took the only available table not covered in people's half-left meals - near the window but close to a loudspeaker playing very loud radio / adverts. i asked the barman to please turn it down. Five mins later still blaring in our ear so I just turned the set off at the mains. Ringwood Best bitter so cold that I left half of it.
I haven't been in here for 20 years or more - it will be probably that long again. There are better pubs in Wareham. A generous 5 / 10 this time.
4 Sep 2010 19:37
The Platform Tavern, Southampton
Dear oh dear - why do they do it??
This place has so much going for it - location, quirky / interesting interior, good range of beers with guest ale policy.
And then they ruin it last Monday lunchtime - when I went to get my second pint (London Pride this time, not the guest beer I had first) the barmaid took an empty glass off the shelf but then quickly swapped arms out of sight below the bar and tried to top up a stale 3/4s of a pint already pulled. I challenged her for a clean fresh pint and told her she shouldn't be doing what she just tried.
THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME EITHER. It happened when I was in there two visits back, 18 months ago. Again it was the london pride - a barman that time. This pub should be an 8 but I'm giving it 6 for that stunt. A real shame.
4 Sep 2010 19:29
The Strands Hotel, Nether Wasdale
Stayed for two nights - really great. interesting range of beers from the micro-brewery supplemented by Jennings Stckle Pike.
Lovely food, nice garden, the village and the location itself are superb. Owners and other staff really friendly. I didn't want to leave.
15 May 2010 18:44
The Wasdale Head Inn, Wasdale Head
Well my experience was the opposite. Firstly, the micro-brewery has moved away. The barman was very nice. The location is incredible - the drive to it is mind-blowing.
A nice internal layout. The golden / fruity beer I had was superb - may have been Loweswater Gold. Food was fine. Well worth a visit. An 8/10.
15 May 2010 18:39
The Stickle Barn Tavern, Great Langdale
Great place for an after-walk pint. Unspoilt bare / traditional interior. Lovely pint of Black Sheep bitter.
Also had a very nice coffee from the hotel next door.
15 May 2010 18:32
Nice location - bit lacking in authenticity inside. Seems to be recently modernised. Absolutely heaving outside when the sun shines - bit more sensible on a more ordinary day.
Astronomical drinks prices. Most expensive round we had in the Lake District.
15 May 2010 18:14
The Kirkstone Pass Inn, Kirkstone Pass
Awesome location at the head of the pass. Late on an April afternoon it was just about warm enough to sit outside on other side of road. It also looked nice inside. The 3% porter tasted fantastic - had plenty of body but not too intoxicating.
15 May 2010 18:09
Seems to be very popular but I felt it was a bit lacking in atmosphere. Just went in the once and had a reasonable though not cheap pint. There are better places in town.
15 May 2010 18:05
Well I liked the place. Great range of well kept beers, friendly and knowledgeable staff. Nice to sit at one of the tables near the big windows overlooking the main street.
I ate here twice (same meal both times) and enjoyed it. My wife enjoyed food first time but was pretty disappointed the second.
Definitely worth a visit for a decent pint or three! 7.5 out of 10.
15 May 2010 18:02
A decent traditional back street pub, very busy with a good cross-section of locals. A decent pint of Robinsons Mild - I'm not a fan of their other beers but the Mild was so nice we went in here several times during the week.
15 May 2010 17:58
Um, this is how pubs used to be in the 80s............ and i don't mean the good ones.
On a Saturday night naff live musician who slagged off request songs before singing them. The barman had to serve a local before me even though he knew I was first due to the vaguely threatening demeanour of said local.
On the plus side the two lads working behind the bar were nice and friendly. Food was ok but a bit pricey. Robinsons beer - not my taste I'm afraid.
15 May 2010 17:54
Excellent example of a quality suburban / residential area pub. Situated 5 mins walk from the station (south - away from town centre side).
A very nice feel inside - partly due to it being on a corner plot and therefore L shaped with the food area down a few steps. Nice lighting / furnishing etc. Interesting tiled wall has original (?) baker's ovens etc.
Four Marston's beers on - two from Ringwood and two guest ones. Tried both of the guests and both were very nice.
6 Mar 2010 17:11
Butcombe Bitter in fantastic condition, nice food. Aimed at the usual Winchester "smarter-set". Easy to get to from the station and then pop over to the broader-church of the Fulflood Arms for a few more beers! 7.5 out of 10.
18 Feb 2010 21:29
The Fishermans Haunt, Christchurch
Glad to see ESB available and in good nic - as was the London Pride. But this place seems rather souless - expensive food as well. Not one of Fullers' better offerings but OK.
18 Feb 2010 21:23
The Royal Portland Arms, Portland
Quirky "proper" pub - sort of 70s style inside. Very friendly owners and customers. The first beer i tried came from the cellar rather than the barrel on the bar and was too cold - but they brought me a bowl to warm it up! Second pint was from on the bar - better temperature. But I didn't really like either of them - one from Brixham and one from Dorset BC. Beers change all the time though.
Worth dropping in if you're in the area.
18 Feb 2010 21:21
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.
9 Jan 2010 18:48
The Three Horseshoes, Burton Bradstock
Well I can't see what the problem is or was but we were only there for a short time on a Saturday mid-afternoon whilst waiting for the bus. The one beer I had was nice. The full range of Palmers beers was on - good to see that.
In previous years in the summer have sat outside on lovely benches.
8 Dec 2009 21:12
A wonderful place to visit on a cold Friday lunchtime. Copper Ale in great condition - nice sandwiches and chips. And of course as everyone else says a stunning location.
Hopefully next time they'll set about lighting the fire at 12.00 p.m. rather than 1.45 pm.!
8 Dec 2009 21:09
The Lord Nelson Hotel, Bridport
Lovely little proper pub with beer in great condition. And they had a real cider on as well. Very traditional sort of place.
8 Dec 2009 21:04
Visited on two evenings whilst in Bridport for the weekend. Tally Ho was on - in great condition.
As on last visit there was a lively crowd of people - differing ages and styles. We have never eaten in here so cannot comment on the food. I like the place.
8 Dec 2009 21:02
Visited on a Sunday lunchtime. Excellent traditional pub - lovely wood panelled public bar, Butcombe Bitter in great nick.
Well worth a visit.
13 Nov 2009 21:49
Wonderful place with nice outside seating at front and great big garden at back. But they have just dropped the London Pride and replaced it with Old Speckled Hen - graon. However at least there's still Ringwood Best and Summer Lightning.
Somehow it is more consistent than the Bermuda Triangle opposite - the Bricklayers may never hit the dizzy heights that sometimes the BT can but also it never seems to hit the (very occasional) low that i have experienced in the BT either.
6 Nov 2009 19:33
The Bermuda Triangle, Parkstone
A wonderful quirky place. Ever changing range of interesting beer which is nearly always well-kept.
6 Nov 2009 19:26
Great place in a nice setting but very very busy whenever we've visited on a Sunday lunchtime. Normally there's well kept Fuller's beers, nice food and good service. Although last time a pint of Butcombe Bitter I had was a bit flat and past its best but when I took it back I had to pay for the replacement Gales HSB .
A pity there is not a spring to gently close the front door because more than half the people who almost continuously come in and go out are incapable of shutting it leading to a gale blowing through the place at times.
6 Nov 2009 19:23
Goat and Tricycle, Bournemouth
A proper pub near Bournemouth town centre but nicely hidden off the main road - the best in the centre by far. Usually a great range of well kept beers (last night they had excellent Orkney Dark Island and Brixham Buccaneer?), nice layout inside and a covered courtyard area. Quite a cross-section of customers - a good thing in my opinion.
Only slight issue was the music level went up for a couple of "well-bangin tunes" before thankfully reducing again and more melodic stuff coming back on. Overall 7.5
6 Nov 2009 19:10
The Duke Of Wellington, Wareham
Reliable well-run real ale pub which also sells good value food. This Sunday they had a superb range of beers on as part of a Waverley sponsored real-ale month - including Moorhouse's Pendle Witches Brew, Keltek Magik and something very good from Brixham.
There is a pleasant (in summer) beer patio out the back. A great place - this was my best visit here: 8/10.
18 Oct 2009 20:43
Wow - superb, understated boozer standing inauspiciously on the main road. Visited on a Sunday lunchtime and found a small table in the flag-stoned public bar. Lovely beers (tried Doom Bar and Gales HSB, both at �2.50) and sells a perry and two ciders.
Easy-going friendly atmosphere. Didn't try the food but there is plenty room in the other seating area (not as much atnosphere I sense) and there is a nice well kept garden at the back.
Recommended - 8/10.
18 Oct 2009 20:31
Consistently good condition London Pride and some interesting guest beers. They had fantastic Okells Bitter on recently.
A relaxed well-run neat and tidy place with a good layout. It has a nice setting back away from the Quay and the High Street but still easy to get to.
The only very slight negative can be the too-loud fast-beat music which seemed to be aimed at a younger crowd who I've never seen in there - perhaps they can either turn it down (or off) or put some classics from the 60's 70's and 80's on. Well worth a visit.
15 Sep 2009 19:46
The Cricketers Arms, Springbourne
Went in the other month back, one mid-week evening. It was quiet but its a lovely place to visit. A fantastic big Victorian boozer with lots of original features - it hides down a side road near Bournemouth Central railway station.
I think there were 3 or 4 beers on including a couple of common ones (Pride and Summer Lightning?) and something more unusual; all in great condition. The landlady was very friendly. Overall 7.5/10
15 Sep 2009 19:37
I agree with previous posters comments - visit for the Fuggle Dee Dum but not much else. Yes the garden is nice if you can find a seat away from the very-loud yachting brigade. Also the staff shouting out the BBQ orders continually across the place.
It's all very smart inside but the staff have that tell-tale sign - of all wearing matching black shirts. So, no suprise when no attempt made to serve people in the right order (and the la-di-da customer willing to try and jump the queue when she was given the chance) nor the surly attitude from the local youth who was eventually serving me when I tried to get my second pint topped up to cut down on the 1" head of froth. But at least my first pint was served properly by an efficient east European women.
Needs to try harder - 5/10.
15 Sep 2009 19:32
Went there yesterday lunchtime and can confirm Deuchar's IPA was in good condition and only �1.95 a pint. But there were only two real ales on. The tasty food was great value.
The place has an interesting interior and was busy - it seems to be a proper pub for serious drinking but you can just drop in for a short visit. Went in on my own and found the staff and other customers to be friendly - overall a 7.5/10.
15 Sep 2009 19:20
Visited two weeks ago on a Sunday lunchtime - one of the most amazing pubs I have ever been into - and I have visited quite a few. My mate described it as being like a film-set. A complete step back in time - yes the furniture is very tired but the original layout is priceless.
Unfortunately my order of London Pride was on the turn but it was immediately replaced from the other tap / barrel when I asked.
It wasn't very busy when we visited but I can imagine a great atmosphere when busy. A pub for fans of real classics - perhaps not somewhere to take a girl on a first date. Somewhere between a 7 and 8/10 - recommended!
15 Sep 2009 19:14
The Old Hill Inn, Chapel-le-Dale
Went in last week after descending from Ingleborough before climbing Whernside. The Black Sheep best bitter was lovely, food quite good though not cheap.
The other customers seemed to mostly be training for a three peaks event and were being quite competitive about it. Certainly a better visit than the year before at lunchtime when we could not get a seat in the main bar due to the table-loads of children.
Came back early evening after Whernside and had a lovely coffee outside in the sunshine. 7.5.
9 Jul 2009 22:19
Jumped on the train the one stop from Settle when we were staying there to get to Long Preston. Had a nice evening meal and a several pints of Moorhouse beer that was in very good condition.
A classic coaching inn in great condition. The village is nice for a quick stroll. The A65 goes right past outside but luckily the bends in the road slow the trafficdown so it does not intrude. Recommended (8/10).
9 Jul 2009 22:09
As on spammy's visit yes the person making the rolls was doing the ironing!! You pay her for the food - not at the bar.
The tiny bar at the end of the passageway is quite something. Timothy Taylor landlord served from the barrel via a jug. No other draught drinks at all. Very simple seating areas to the side of the bar. Worth a visit for the chance to step back in time.
Landlord is certainly a character - when I asked permission for us to sit out at the back of the pub in the lovely garden i was told "no - it's not a beer garden, you can sit at the front"! I suppose it is for the hotel guests but there are no seats out there.
Places like this are few and far between these days - enjoy....... (7/10).
9 Jul 2009 22:05
The Black Horse Hotel, Giggleswick
Just down the hill below the Harts Head Hotel this is a nice place next to the churchyard. Well run with nice food. Sells Timothy Taylor Landlord and Golden Best; also Tetley. 8/10.
9 Jul 2009 21:57
Have stayed round the corner three times in the last two years.
This place is fantastic - a popular place most nights of the week. Great range of real ales and well-priced good food. Highly recommended. A well-earned 9.
9 Jul 2009 21:54
Fantastic wood panelling and a revolving door. On our last two visits to Settle it seemed to be a popular and well-run place selling Copper Dragon beers. This time it was one real ale only, from Moorhouse, served too cold.
A To Let sign appeared the week we were in the town. Lets hope someone gets it back on track again.
9 Jul 2009 21:51
Went last week on the Saturday night during our third visit to Settle. Very popular place (a young and older crowd) selling Thwaites beers. Beer was ok though perhaps not quite as good as on previous visits.
It seems to have taken over from the Royal Oak as the Saturday night place to be seen. It has a public bar, traditional lounge bar and a lovely formal dining room. 7 out of 10.
9 Jul 2009 21:46
Great place as everyone else is saying. Nice traditional layout, Ringwood beers and guest ale as well. Score 7.5.
9 Jul 2009 21:41
Lovely old style pub with great beer. Is a bit food orientated and was suprisingly (probably too-) busy for a mid-week lunchtime, it seemed nicer after the rush had cleared a bit. Near Brunel's Box Tunnel. Well worth a visit - not far from Bath by bus along the A4. Overall 8/10.
23 Apr 2009 22:41
Visited one mid-week lunchtime, not overly busy. Superb interior, extensive beer range and nice food. Well worth a visit but not quite a classic like the Star Inn. Still an 8/10.
23 Apr 2009 22:37
Best pub i visited in the Bradford on Avon area all week, in fact one of the best I've ever been to full stop. Fantastic preserved interior. Draught Bass brewed in Burton - poured straight from the barrel - tasted wonderful. I wish i lived nearer Bath. 9/10
23 Apr 2009 22:33
The Inn at Freshford, Freshford
Lovely location - grab one of the benches out the front and look at the fields. Interesting range of Box Steam beers. Mixed results on the food - I had to send my cheese sandwich back (difficult to get that wrong you'd think), but they did the right thing and replaced it and knocked it off the bill.
Nice stopping off point on a walk. 7/10
23 Apr 2009 22:26
The Barge Inn, Bradford on Avon
Moles beers, good food. Modernised interior, friendly staff. Very busy on a Friday night. Nice setting by the canal near the lock. 7/10
23 Apr 2009 22:21
The Rising Sun, Bradford on Avon
As per last review - a proper local. Busy when we went, unfortunately the small side-bar (nice old decor and fire place - old as in 1950s not 1850s) had a load of young guys who'd obviously been drinking all afternoon in there. Beer range ok. Castle Inn nearby is better. 6/10
23 Apr 2009 22:18
The Bunch of Grapes, Bradford on Avon
Nice Young's pub with a guest as well. Ate here twice - good value (though I had to request a replacement meal the second time - done with no fuss).
Saturday was very "lively" with a local dancing on the table when the landlord was not looking. A bit more restrained well-behaved in the rest of the place. 7/10
23 Apr 2009 22:14
Visited three times in the week we stayed nearby. A bit overrun with children the first time (Mother's day lunchtime) but better on the other occasions. Great range of beers (e.g. Barbury Castle) and good value food.
Atmosphere in the main area is still pub like but more restauranty in the other areas. Seems to have a mostly well-heeled customer base but was welcoming to all. Friendly staff. 8/10.
23 Apr 2009 22:08
Not sure about this one - there were hardly any customers in on a Sunday lunchtime. The Palmers Copper Ale was not as good as it could be. Also they could do with tidying it up outside at the front - dog ends and burnt bits of cardboard next to the seating.
It wouldn't take much to spruce it up a bit - inside it has a nice layout. And the seating area at the front could easily be quite nice. Only 6 out of 10 this time.
27 Feb 2009 22:31
Best pub of the weekend - and we went to plenty! Nicely decorated and a great atmosphere on a Saturday night - friendly staff and customers - quite a few looked as if they were in from the Electric Palace. Despite only having the one real ale on, Palmers IPA , it was in tip top condition including the temperature.
27 Feb 2009 22:25
Solid locals' boozer with an extensive range of Palmer's beers - including having Tally Ho on. Ideal stopping off point whilst walking between West Bay and Bridport for a swift one - overall 6/10. Quite busy late on a saturday afternoon.
27 Feb 2009 22:14
My most enjoyable visit ever to this classic. It is like stepping back in time to the 1930s.
Great range of beers - Amarillo (Milk Street), Otter, St Valentine's Day Massacre (Church End). And lovely toasted sandwiches. A 9/10.
15 Feb 2009 21:38
The Sandacres Free House, Sandbanks
Have been to the Sandacres on and off over recent years. It is a classic seaside pub. It has a great setting - views out of the windows across Poole Harbour yesterday - only because no one had parked a big van on the other side of the road - that often happens as the area is very popular with sailborders etc.
The pub does try to offer a decent and varying range of real ales. A Hopback one, Ringwood Best and Tharp's Special Ale were on. The Hopback was not in very good condition and they took it off when i mentioned it. - swapped it for Sharps. Much better but too cold - apparently the cellar is outside so the beer can get too cold.
Food is good simple pub grub at very fair prices. All the furniture is new and modern. There are still the pool tables at the back.
A great place on a sunny day when you can go outside with your drink in a plastic "glass" or inside on a winter's day when wandering around millionaires row - Sandbanks. Overall 7 out of 10.
9 Feb 2009 20:56
Great building with nice original tiles, in a smart residential area. This was my first visit so don't know how it compares to b4 - but a good range of beers in good condition.
The place has that feel that it has had a bit of a makeover . It seems to be generally aiming for the smart local residents though not exclusively so. Well worth a visit - 8/10.
19 Jan 2009 20:55
Visited on a quiet Monday lunchtime. Public Bar still retains a proper feel - clean and tidy but not modern. No one else in that bar when we walked in but a nice place to sit. Lounge (busier) is food orientated - still nice but not any particular character.
Beer was OK - a ropey Archers guest beer and usual Ringwood fair. Reasonable condition. The food was really good - well worth the short wait. Staff reasonably friendly. Overall 7.
It's just under an hour length easy walk along the Solent Way from Lymington Pier station with good views of the Isle of Wight.
19 Jan 2009 20:48
Visited on a Friday lunchtime - nice walk there from the station. Place has two bars - the lounge is also the restaurant. Good beer - Doom Bar and Otter, both in good condition.
It was as per previous posters comments though no well-off pensioners - just a few other people. using both the bars. Food very nice but perhaps either need to shave back the prices or increase the portions slightly. But still good overall - 8 out of 10.
9 Jan 2009 21:31
Good knockabout pub. One for a night out with the lads. Really great range of beers at good prices.
5 Jan 2009 21:05
Three of us went in last Friday. Apparently the pub had been closed for 4 days. The Ringwood Best was like vinegar. Then a pint of 49er was the same - all handed back.
But the keg lager was also undrinkable and the Guiness was below average. Luckily my bottle of Newkie Brown could not be ruined.
This is such a shame as i had thought that this was a proper booze with a commitment to real ale. They do seem to have two flat screen tellys on the wall now - so that may be thre priority - instead of looking after the cellar properly. I'll give it 4 out of 10 for from sympathy.
We left and headed to the Brewhouse. That was great.
5 Jan 2009 21:03
The Fishermans Arms, East Looe
As per previous reviews - a proper pub with a fire you could smelt steel on. Locals round the bar discussing the quality of the roast meats from different suppliers.
Comfortable and friendly atmosphere that seemed to blend visitors and locals in together - a classic boozer. Excellent - and the Doom Bar was in good nic.
We did walk past on the Sunday night and there was a lively crowd enjoying live music - karaoke possibly .............. didn't go in so not sure.
19 Nov 2008 22:34
Decent pub - seems to do quite a bit of food and caters for visitors and locals. In the off-season when we were there it was a bit lacking in atmosphere compared to the Fishermans. But I liked it and the Doom Bar was in excellent condition - possibly best I have tasted it.
Had to laugh when it ws �1.33 for a half - i can't remember when I last paid an amount not rounded to the nearest 5p - but good on them - it was �2.65 for a pint so the prices are fair.
Would definitely visit again.
19 Nov 2008 22:27
Visited twice whilst staying for a week in Looe. Nice and accessible by the station. Both times it was busy with a lot of locals - all at the bar as one big group.
First time only Doom Bar was on but in good condition; a few days later Doom Bar and Cornish Knocker were on. Thought I'd start safe with the Doom Bar - it was like vinegar - you could actuallt smell it. i took it back and they offered me the Skinners (after checking with the ?landlord - who did not taste or smell the beer). They left the Doom Bar on!!
I said you could smell it was off and only then did the barmaid try it and take the clip off - I assume because one of the locals was apparently happily drinking it.
Well the Cornish Knocker was really nice but i proabably would not visit again as there seems to be better pubs down in the town. Beats me how it can stay in the GBG at this rate. But here's hoping they can taste the beers at the start of each evening.
19 Nov 2008 22:21
Not in the GBG but in the Lonely Planet guide. Good place with its own distinctive atmosphere - went there lunchtime mid-week. Wide range of beers and competitively priced food.
18 Nov 2008 22:20
Visited here last week whilst in the area on holiday - based on the entry in the GBG. Nice interior downstairs but limited view of the sea and we were right in the window. See the Rashleigh Inn at Polkerris for a better setting. But still very nice food - very attractively served ;<).
Beer was really good - had some Otter and some O'Hanlons Yellow Hammer. Both in tip-top condition. This place was really popular despite it being out of season - there was quite a lot of coming and going. God only knows what it is like in the high season. Definitely worth a visit - the bus will take you back to Looe for trains on to wherever.
18 Nov 2008 22:17
Visited here last week whilst in the area on holiday - based on the entry in the GBG. Strolled along the cliff path from Par Station - an easy walk once you find your way onto it.
Must say i was disappointed when I walked in and there was only one real ale on but it was Timothy Taylor Landlord. - one of my favs The barman explained that he was waiting for the owner to tell him what was ready to put on next (maybe he should have left him a note!) - later on Otter Bitter and a Skinners came on. TTL and Otter in great nic.
Food was ok but a bit overpriced. The setting and views are absolutely fantastic - well worth a visit. Though probably best to try and get there out of season like we did. I imagine it could be manic in the summer.
18 Nov 2008 22:08
Visited Globe inn last week whilst in the area on holiday - based on the entry in the GBG. Really nice pub, Skinners Betty Stogs was in best condition I have tasted, food seemed reasonable, friendly barman. Easy short stroll from the station - recommended!
18 Nov 2008 22:01
Dropped in here on the walk back from Double Locks Hotel on Saturday - had seen it before on last visit to Exeter but it was shut. It has that slight kitted out "how a proper back-street boozer should look "feel - stripped wooden tables etc.
The pub's cat slept on the window ledge next to us throughout our visit. For some reason the two bar staff seemed to be pretending it was 1898 not 2008 with their banter / dress - no idea why........
Good range of beer - Branscome Branoc, Hook Norton Old Hooky plus another. The wife had some nice wine and she liked the atmosphere.
Food looked nice but was expensive - we ate elsewhere. Would definitely recommend a visit.
26 Aug 2008 22:06
The Great Western Hotel, Exeter
Went there at the weekend on the Sunday evening and there was a good few people in the main bar - great range of 8 beers on including O'Hanlons Firefly - lovely.
Whilst it is a bit shabby it was still a relaxing place, it lived up to my expectations of a classic railway hotel. I would visit it again (but probabbly as part of a trip to a few Exeter pubs).
26 Aug 2008 21:39
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New Inn, Portland
My heart always sinks when you walk inside to be greeted by a contemporary interior (including really high chairs at the modern tables) and youths in black shirts behind the bar.
Two real ales on from Ringwood - rebranded Best and Fortyniner. The best was sponsored by Sarsons and the barman readily admitted it had been on a long time and was near the end of the barrel. Fortyniner tasted better but cos it's not normally my cup of tea I wasn't certain about it. Still, I drank it. That and a G & T cost north of £9! Ridiculous considering what part of the world we were in.
Anyway, majority of customer base seems to be older and aiming for the large restaurant area at the back. Food looked expensive and we decided to leave. I'll give it 4/10. This was our second duff pub on Portland that day.
We ate in an art gallery back down the hill. It had wonderful food with good prices and a sea view! They even let me have a beer from the Co-op on a BYO basis. Pity the art gallery people don't run a pub.
17 Nov 2015 22:03