The Blackmore Vale Inn, Sturminster Newton

Reopened last year after a couple of years’ closure, this lovely village inn is well worth a visit. The location is pleasantly relaxing as villages go, without being chocolate-boxey. There is a car park at the back, though this has been created at the expense of the garden. There are bench seats and wooden tables at the front, and given that the road through isn’t too busy, these are quite a pleasant place to sit to enjoy the weather. Inside, the main bar is formed from conjunction of four smaller rooms, making a square bar with a corner counter and uneven floors which add to the character. Slightly incongruous 1980s reggae music was playing on the stereo throughout our visit. The only staff member present was the very cheerful and welcoming barmaid. There is a separate dining room off to one side and down a slope. Both the bar and dining room have inglenook fireplaces. The bar contains a TV screen and a dartboard. The pub hosts village events, including a port tasting evening (it’s that sort of village). Two ales on draft, Doombar and Bath Prophecy, both in excellent condition. Marnhull is lucky, having two excellent village pubs of which this is one; a visit to both wold make an excellent evening or afternoon.