Anchor, Bridport

Our experience here was similar to the previous reviewer, although we were visiting in winter when it is much quieter. A basic pub where the reception seemed fairly frosty initially, but soon warmed up. We were the only customers until another couple arrived with a couple of particularly smelly dogs just before we were leaving. Otter Bitter was being pulled through and was the only real ale option. Surprisingly there was also a Lilley's Rum Cider in a box on the bar. I opted for this and it turned out to be the only real cider I saw all day long in Dorset.

A traditional roadside alehouse in a small village. There is nothing fanciful or false about it – it’s a good basic village local which benefits from occasional passing trade as it’s not on a major holiday route. There is a small ca park at the side and a decent lawned garden at the back. The older part of the building, which appears to date from the mid-19th Century, has two small bars which have been partially opened out while leaving the servery in the middle. The saloon-like area is carpeted, has a 1960s-style fireplace and a gaming machine, while the smaller area behind it has a flag floor, a dartboard, some sofas and a woodburner. At the rear is a larger carpeted dining area in what appears to be a more modern extension, which has access through French doors to the garden. It feels cosy, and while the reception was initially a bit hesitant (think Slaughtered Lamb), it became friendlier. The landlady was pleasant, the landlord appeared to care about his beer quality. Only one ale on, Otter Ale, which was in fair condition. Worth weighing in for a quick one if passing.