Kings Arms, Wallisdown, Bournemouth

A busy suburban high street local currently owned by Marstons. There is a small car park at the back which was full of commercial vehicles. A small grassed patio with tables and chairs leads, via a concrete ramp, to French doors into the single L-shaped bar. The bar is mostly laminate floored, and there is a raised carpeted area at one end. The bar counter at the apex is unusual, almost an interesting feature. With the garden doors open, smoke drifts in from outside, so that old fashioned pub smell is available for those who want it. Food is cheap and formulaic. Free WiFi is available, and there is an unusual collection of bonsai trees in galvanised buckets on one wall which contrasts with the eclectic mix of furniture. The staff look fierce, but they were actually very friendly and welcoming, while the locals were quite tolerant of strangers. Three pumps at the bar but only one ale on, Ringwood Best, which was a little over-gassed but otherwise in good condition. OK to drop in if in the area but doesn’t readily tie in with a crawl.