The Micro Moose, Winton, Bournemouth

Our favourite micropub in Winton when we last visited in December 2017, the Silverback Ale House actually shaded it this time. But if you're visiting one, you may as well do both. Having been here during the daytime last time around, I agree with Quinno that it has a lighter and airier feel than many micropubs. We didn't have too long here before we needed to catch a bus back to the train station. So, getting comfortable on the sofa really wasn't advisable! However, it was the only seating available. The 4 real ales on were Steam Town Reefer, Monkey Brew House Full Tilt, Cornish Crown Madagascan Vanilla Porter & Wantsum Hengist. The porter was not quite as tasty as it sounded and the Hengist didn't really hit the spot for me either. Real ciders were Snail's Bank Rhubarb Cider & Pig Squeal, Sandford Orchards Slack Ma Girdle & Devon Red & Thistly Cross Whisky Cask. The Canadian lady who runs this micropub is really friendly and happily welcomes all visitors, whether locals or those from further afield. The denizens of Winton are really lucky to have two really decent pubs in such close proximity.

Almost an archetypal micro, the single room bar has basic, custom-made wooden tables and benches, a new wooden floor and a small counter at one end of the room. No WiFi, four handpumps on the counter and a selection if ciders were on offer. The barmaid was Canadian, very pleasant and helpful, while the clientele were particularly civilised for this part of Bournemouth. Ales on draft were Gales (ie Fullers) Spring Sprinter, Downton Black 'Ops, Bath Ales's Barnsey and Tavy's Ideal Pale Ale. Ciders were 2 from Orchard Pig, Earnie Boy's Clear Scrumpy, Old Mount Berry, and Black Rat Premium. Decent bar snacks were available, including nachos, pork scratchings fresh from a local butcher and scotch eggs. Coffee and tea were also available. An excellent watering hole, definitely worth a visit.

Official site of The Micro Moose - www.micromoose.co.uk