Old Ship Inn, Dorchester

A fabulous looking exterior, possibly 17th century. The Old Ship is a terraced pub that does accommodation, in beige and undressed brick. The interior will divide opinion, i am sure - you will either love it or hate it - I hate it of course, as it is modern - many will love it for the same reason, especially juxtaposed against the classic exterior. The pub is a long one-roomer, though on a couple of levels, with the serving bar down on the left-hand side. There are comfy half backed chairs, arty pictures, with generally white walls (they looked white) and wood flooring - too clinical for my personal taste. They did food, but i didn't eat, so can't comment on that. There was no background music and a TV, with Three Men and a Baby on - but i must stress i was in first pub of the day, so to speak. Hence there was nobody else in. The service was fine. Beer; tap stuff with a couple of Marston's range on the handpulls - Cumberland Ale and an OK Ringwood Bitter. I ended up being disappointed after seeing the exterior, as the interior is too modern for me and the beer choice is basic for a Midlander that gets the Marton's range ad nauseam. It needs someone else, with the modern eye to speak up for it on here.

A busy locals pub, just off Nantwich Road. Live bands and karaoke among the events on offer. Decent outside smoking area.

Refurbished in March 2008, The Old Ship has been transformed into a delightful pub with excellent real ales, food and accommodation. See www.bestpubindorchester.com