The Ship In Distress

The seafood menu at this 300-year-old smugglers' pub reflects the closeness of Mudeford Quay and the English Channel. Nautical memorabilia is everywhere, so either bag a seat by the woodburner with a pint of Ringwood (but maybe not the Fortyniner if you're driving!) and traditional fish and chips or cottage pie; alternatively, head into the restaurant for salmon and scallion fishcake; fruits de mer; locally caught lobster; or whole Dorset crab. The full carte, including steaks, is on the blackboard. In summer enjoy the Shellfish Bar on the sun-trap terrace.