The Cockleshell, Poole

No ale here, so pressed on.

Previously the New London Tavern, this traditional back-street boozer lacks the usual traditional civility from either staff or regulars. The tile-fronted Victorian edifice has been left standing alone, a survivor of the urban renewal which has gone on around it. From that point of view it is a valuable architectural, historic and social asset. As a pub, though, I feel it lacks a certain something – don't expect a warm welcome, and there is no ale on draft and only Pride on bottles. The small single bar is cosy, crowded and lively. There is a pool table, a gaming machine and Sky tv showing sports, so the locals are catered for. That's fine, and that is the primary purpose of a pub, I suppose, but it's not my idea of a good time and I won't be returning unless they get some decent beer in or start being a bit more welcoming.