Bear Hotel, Wareham

A former 18th Century coaching inn, much as described by Steve, below, currently owned by Marstons. As you enter through the front door there is a games room on the left with a pool table. The main bar is on the right, which has gaming machines, a TV and a very loud sound system blaring out local radio on this occasion. The pub still does B&B and there is a lunch menu. Only one ale on, Ringwood Best, which was in decent condition. I’d be happy to drop in and I would include on a town crawl.

A fantastic terraced Georgian exterior in white render, with a neo-classic columned central entrance and a chained black bear as a symbol, rather than sign. It is a hotel, restaurant and bar, with bow windows and a balustrade. It is in the GBG 2010 and has a beer garden at the back. The interior has two rooms regarding the pub element, which lie either side of the central entrance corridor. The room to the left on entering is in wood panel, with white ceiling. It has a brick fire place and is set out more for dining. The serving bar can be found in the room on the right. Also in wood panel, with a brick fire place, it is stuffed with old photos and electic ephemera ranging from a big fish to bed pans. I saw no TV and the music was quiet and general. The service was fine and the clientele mixed, again though, there were clearly locals using the place, always a good sign. I didn't eat, so can't comment on that. Beer; tap stuff along with Ringwood Best, 49er and a so-so Wychwood Hobgoblin on handpull A nice place to pop into. Sadly, the beers were Marstons range, something i am familiar with in the Midlands and the Hobgoblin wasn't the best, but hey, worth a visit and i would go in again