The High Corner Inn, Ringwood

As described by OB, below, this picturesque pub feels nicely rural especially given the unmade road you need to traverse to get there if arriving by motor vehicle. On arrival we were greeted by a hoard of unruly, loud children and their entitled, loud mothers, all of whom were either running around inside or throwing litter outside. Once inside we found a bank of three handpumps, though these turned out to be pump-like switches causing their offerings to be dispensed: Stan’s Cider, Butcombe Original and Butcombe Rare Breed, all in good condition. The honest keg range was Tale Tales Pale Ale, Madri, Goram IPA, Aspall’s Cider and Guinness. It was chaotic – the barman couldn’t work the till, the waiting staff seemed to lack direction, and prices were extremely high for the area for both beer and snacks. Given the effort required to get here I’m not sure I’d try too hard given that there are better pubs on the way in, though if I were walking through here I’d be happy to stop for refreshments.

Very remote hotel/restaurant at the end of a gravel track off a single track road, it does however label itself as “pub & rooms”. A single storey building with conservatory type extensions,  the entrance is a little unobvious and on you pass through a wooden turn style to enter the place. I guess the turn style is to stop livestock getting in. The original building is covered in rough cast and supposedly dates back to the18th century, being built on a slope the interior is on several levels. Fortunately the counter is on the highest level near the main door, however it does operate on “meet and seat” basis so no ordering at the bar. As expected lots of tables and chairs although there is a collection of leather arm chairs and a low table immediately in front of the counter by a fireplace. Mock half timbered interior with rustic pictures as decor, easy listening piped music and restaurant style staffing. Two T-Bars of usual suspects and a trio of hand pumps, only one working with Butcombe Original, Butcombe are the operators. The Original was quite cloudy with low condition  but drinkable if average on scoring. Outside is large garden which must be very pleasant on sunny days.

Facebook page of The High Corner Inn - www.facebook.com

Official site of The High Corner Inn - butcombe.com

Facebook page of The High Corner Inn - www.facebook.com

Official site of The High Corner Inn - butcombe.com