The Sydney Arms, Dorchester

Official site of The Sydney Arms - www.sydneydorchesterpub.co.uk

Official site of The Sydney Arms - www.sydneydorchesterpub.co.uk

A corner pub built in the early part of the 2oth Century, the ground floor now knocked through to form a single large bar. It markets itself as a ‘pie and pudding pub’ – presumably the reason for a rather ugly counter next to the bar - but neither was available. It also claims to be a 3-star hotel, but again the ambience isn’t consistent with that expectation – it’s more a B&B pub than an hotel. There is a small amount of parking and a small paved terrace at the back for al fresco activity. The bar is rambling and has a mixture of furniture styles for diners, drinkers and loungers, and is well described below. The Brummy barman was welcoming and friendly, and the locals were sensible, mainly focussed on playing darts. Two ales on, Ringwood Best and Tribute, the Boondoggle having just gone off. The beer was in good condition and quite enjoyable. I would include as part of a crawl, and it would interesting to come back when the pies and/or puddings are on sale.