The Forest Inn, Ferndown

Previously Inn on the Tin, what looks like a portakabin nestling between the golf club and the Chef da Chine Chinese restaurant has the look and feel of a golf club bar, though it does manage to be a reasonable local in some respects. Approached from the car park it shares with the other two businesses which is in turn reached via a spur road off the Ferndown Bypass, it has a large covered area at the front with an outdoor pool table and seating for smokers. Inside, the décor is very much 1970s fake exposed timbers, although the large oak-beamed fireplace at one end is real enough. There are a dartboard and gaming machines inside the single large bar, while large TV screens show live sports matches at both ends. There is pub-standard food available, but it was nothing special. The pub is dog and child friendly; plenty of both were wandering around, and the golf theme is maintained by having a driving range immediately next to the back door. Staff were tolerably friendly, while the majority of clientele were normal. Two ales on, Ringwood Best and Hobgoblin, both served too cool but drinkable. It’s OK to drop in for a pint and a quick lunch, especially if the A31 is busy, but I’m not sure I’d make an evening of it

Strange pub, more golf clubhouse than anything else. Not a lot to recommend it real ale wise, the usual limited choice being matched by the usually poor quality. The food seems popular and is not expensive. Often crowded, but I reckon this is more a question of 'captive clientel' than genuine popularity. I'll not rate the Inn in the Tin at present as I've not been there often and I may well have been unlucky...........