The Lansdowne, Dawlish

Backstreet boozer that is much larger inside than you'd imagine. Set over two rooms, labelled ‘bar’ and ‘lounge’ as you enter. It looks like a good chunk of cash was spent here 25 odd years ago, as it sports quite a mid-90’s interior (some tongue and groove wood panelling, embossed ceiling wallpaper painted nicotine brown, etc). A trip to the traps revealed just how big the pub is, with a large rear area revealing that the bar itself is actually an island. A number of pumps but just a single ale on, Dartmoor Best, which was decent enough if a little fusty (NBSS 2.5). Also claims of a proper cider but I didn't see it. Filled rolls (2 quid) and scotch eggs available, so an extra point there. Fairly busy for early afternoon and sausage-heavy, the only females were those behind the bar. Football on the telly, in the lounge of all places. A word about the background music, which was enjoyably eclectic and geared towards the oldies by a margin of 50 years or so. Enough here to keep me engaged for a half, which I wasn’t necessarily expecting. 5.5