The Cock & Bottle

Parts of this old Dorset longhouse were built about 400 years ago; the pub was originally cob-walled and, though it was sheathed in brick some time around 1800, it retained its thatched roof until the mid 60s. Today, the unspoilt interiors with their low-beamed ceilings and a wealth of nooks and crannies are redolent of a bygone age. The lively locals' bar is simply furnished and comfortably rustic, with a large wooden settle on which to while away a winter's evening with a game of dominoes beside the cosy log fire. The fine range of real ales from the nearby Hall & Woodhouse brewery is also available in the lounge bar, and a modern restaurant at the back completes the picture. Fresh game and fish feature strongly on the ever-changing menu, which ranges from light lunch menus, bar meals and Sunday roasts to pub favourites like steak and kidney pudding or lamb shank. A la carte choices might include a starter of local dressed crab, or deep fried brie wedges with a Cumberland sauce. Moving on, rabbit pie with root vegetable and mushroom sauce; and grilled wild sea bass with crushed new potatoes, rocket and horseradish crème fraîche are typical main course options. Home-made desserts like orange and spiced rum crème brûlée; or dark and white chocolate terrine with a fruit coulis make a fitting finale to the meal. Lovely pastoral views over the surrounding farmland include the pub's paddock, which occasionally hosts vintage car and motorcycle meetings during the summer. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. Booking for meals may be required.