Old Inn, Wimborne

This large Victorian house dates mainly from 1878 when the original structure, built around 1714, was rebuilt. Its proximity to the church suggests it was once Church property, but it is currently owned by Hall and Woodhouse. There is a large carpark over the road which is shared by the church, pub and Parish Hall. There is a garden at the back, while the front offers bench seats and tables, strong points to tether your dog, horse or child (if only) and a bicycle rack. You enter through the main bar which is floorboarded and has a mix of bare brick and plastered walls, and is mostly furnished with tables for diners; the food has a very good reputation and is a big draw for the pub. There are also comfy chairs next to the open fireplace. To the left is a second, smaller bar. This is also floorboarded and has a fire which shares the chimney with the first. This bar is more Spartan, yet paradoxically more homely. The pub is family and dog friendly. There is a 'kids' menu' for the former, while water bowls are supplied for the latter. During this visit, they were having trouble with the pipes, so no handpumps were working. However, they got around the problem by serving First Call by gravity straight from the cask, and it worked perfectly – the beer was in excellent condition and probably the best First Call I've had. The staff had a real 'can-do' attitude and the customers were civilised, even the children who were politely warned to behave on entering. I'd be happy to come here anytime for food or beer.