The Giant Inn, Dorchester

This terraced pub/eatery and B&B has a fantastic exterior. It is half undressed brick and half black and white, with nice etched windows celebrating its former name, the Red Lion, as well as the former brewery J Groves & Sons. There is a garden at the back, as well as a skittle alley. The interior is an open plan room with three separate areas, a dining area, bar area and a pool table area. The décor is a mix of red and wood panel in the pool area, red and wood panel with a chessboard floor in the dining area, with red and green wood panel, with a white ceiling in the bar/lounge, where there is also a beautiful stone fireplace. There are some general 18th century style prints, as well as photos of the Cerne Abbas giant on the walls. There was soft, general background music and there was a TV, but it wasn’t on at my visit. The service was friendly and there were a few locals in the bar. They served food, but I didn’t eat, so can’t comment on that. Beer; tap stuff, with Wadworth Henry’s IPA, St Austell Tribute and a class Piddle Yogi Beer on handpull . A nice friendly place. Well worth a visit and somewhere I wound more than happily return to.

Previously the Red Lion. Great atmosphere. Doesn't do food but has a traditional village pub feel. It seems to be the locals pub of choice and they are friendly and welcoming."