The Avocet, Poole

Last year, the Central Hotel in Parkstone reopened as a gastro pub called The Ox, strangely mirroring what had previously happened to this place which swapped its sensible former name (The Parkstone Hotel) for something a bit more bovine. The pub has an ideal location, directly next to Parkstone train station in the heart of trendy Ashley Cross, with an interior of some size reflecting its previous incarnation as a hotel. The Greene King team have given the place the full refurb treatment but it hasn’t been totally lost to the foodies as it remains a half decent spot for a drink as well. The general theme of the decor is bare floorboards, pastel shaded walls and some plain exposed brickwork. If you enter from the station car park, you’ll find yourself in the main bar area where some nice banquettes run under the windows and old photos and adverts hang from the walls. There is a small stone fireplace at one end of the room and a TV screen was showing muted news coverage with some music playing over it. On the other side of the bar, things seemed a bit more formally arranged and ideal for diners, although funnily enough, plenty of people were enjoying food throughout the pub, leaving this space empty. A quick look at the menu suggested an upmarket take on a standard Greene King menu, which fits in well with the neighbourhood. The sun was out on my visit and a few people were sat outside in a pleasant seating area, although the majority had found their way to the first floor balcony which overlooks the train tracks and catches the sun nicely in the afternoon. There is also a function room upstairs which I’ve been in many years ago, but didn’t check out on this visit. On the bar there were the expected Greene King regulars of IPA, Abbot and ‘Cow’, which appeared to be rebadged H&H Bitter, plus guests of Milestone St George’s Legend and Old Dairy Gold Top. I plumped for the latter which I found to be a bit past its best unfortunately. This isn’t a bad pub and it seems popular with the locals so it must be doing something right. However, I’ve always felt it lacks that spark to make me want to come back and I usually end up here at the behest of others. Probably best for food or for a swift one before getting a train, but if in the area, head to the Bermuda Triangle instead.

Friendly local, good range of beers and wines. Excellent bar food and restaurant. Nice decor.