Chequers Inn, Poole

This large village pub is a community hub, lively and well supported, serving all sections of the village community. It is one of a small chain and is a freehouse. The building has 17th Century roots and has been extended several times, the most recent of which is a large conservatory-style annex used as a restaurant and function room. There is plenty of parking on site, and there is a good sized garden. The bar area rambles, mostly wooden floored, a snug at one end being carpeted. The bar counter is oak-fronted which looks a bit odd but makes good use of surplus floorboards. There are one or two interesting architectural features to see, including timbers, brick fireplaces and original stone walls, though these are rendered. Staff were welcoming and the locals reasonable. There is a dartboard and pool table, and there is Sky TV and free wifi available. Half the bar area was laid for diners. Four ales on, I had Timothy Taylor's Boltmaker which was in very good condition and most enjoyable. A living, working pub which does a good job and is worth visiting for food, drink and conviviality.

A good atmosphere with friendly staff and a good layout, however the beer leaves much to be desired. Both Ringwood Fortyniner and Sharp's Doombar were available, however both beers were served far too cold and right at the bottom of the barrel.

This was my local when I grew up and I had been sad to see it fall into what seemed to be terminal decline over the last five or so years. Thankfully it's now under new management and has had a reasonable make-over which seems to have revitalised its fortunes somewhat. At last there is some decent ale on - Ringwood Best and Fortyniner and St Austell Tribute last Saturday (although the later was served far too cold) and I'm told that the food is excellent as well. Comprised of two bar areas, a restaurant, a small front room and large back room with conservatory, there is a fair bit to explore and plenty of room for the nights when it is traditionally packed such as Christmas Eve. It's still under a process of recovery but each time I go back I see more and more encouraging signs. I hope the pub keeps heading in the right direction and becomes the focal point that the village desperately needs.

Went there first about a year ago food great,then taken over and it went downhill.Closed for a while after fire.New owners about 6 months ago went recently and were very pleased with the food.New owners have really resurrected the pub and deserve sucess.