The Dog House, Ottery St. Mary

Substantially changed since its days as The King’s Head, it is now more of a sports bar, probably better suited to a city, than a small town pub. The front bar has been formed by opening out two of the front rooms, leaving a central chimney breasts around which 4 TV screens are hung. New timber flooring and canteen-style gave it a fresh look. There are multiple other screens, all showing live football when we arrived. There are two pool tables on one side, a jukebox, and a dart board in the bar at the rear. It was quite noisy, the TVs competing with rock music from the jukebox. There was indeed a neighbour who had come in to harangue the very patient barmaid, unnecessarily so. There were a couple of local lads in, friendly enough, and the staff were quite jolly. Only one ale on, Doombar, which was in good condition. A second pump was clipped for Jail Ale, though this had just gone off. On keg were Thatcher’s Haze, Aspall’s Cider, Guinness, Madri, Carling and two from Hawkstone. Fine for a pint or to visit their quiz and music nights, but don’t expect it to be peaceful.

Facebook page of The Dog House - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of The Dog House - www.facebook.com

Large and impressive old building but sadly the interior doesn't live up to it. The beamed ceiling is rather overwhelmed by a naff 90's-type refurb with pvc seating and a slight air of dilapidation. Main bar to one side and a games room to the other. An outdoor area to rear in the yard and car park. Beers from Otter and Branscombe Vale seemed ok though. Considerable room for improvement.