The Old Ox Inn - Carta

The Cricketers

➤ Main Street, DT11 8QD, North Dorset, United Kingdom

Carta • Pubs • Steak • Vegan • British

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"I have been going to Cricketers for almost 12 years (my husband’s grandfather built several of the houses in the village, where his parents live). We finally decided to never visit this pub again and we will share our experience with those we know. The service is appalling. Last time we went we were told to carry our own tiny dirty tray to our table (coffee and cider — we also ordered BBQ chicken which was brought to the table) and of course were not acknowledged when we left. Just a couple of examples of low key passive aggressive rudeness we have experienced on other occasions — we regret our loyalty and spending our money here. Despite the above, we have to say that one of the staff members at the pub, Nick, is kind, respectful and a real professional."

The White Horse Inn

➤ Shaston Road, Blandford Forum I-DT11 8TA, United Kingdom

Carta • Pizza • Sushi • Seafood • British

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"The White Horse Inn is a fantastic addition to the village of Stourpaine. It’s a wonderful pub with a small attached shop. I've dined here many times, and the menu is impressive, catering to a variety of tastes, including excellent vegan and vegetarian options. The staff are friendly and welcoming, and it's great to see younger employees being guided by more experienced team members. The service is prompt, and the food is outstanding—clearly prepared in-house rather than purchased pre-made. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as this pub is quite popular. Just a heads up, parking can be limited when the pub is busy."

The Saxon Inn

➤ Gold Hill, DT11 8HD, North Dorset, United Kingdom

Carta • Pub • Steak • British • Vegetarian

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"The Saxon Inn is a truly beautiful country inn, full of charm and character. Each little area, corner and nook is styled and curated to perfection, and the special little attention to details really elevates this place above what you'd normally expect from a country inn. Every turn reveals an almost lnstagrammable moment you'd want to capture. The welcome from the hosts Sarah and Richard couldn't have been more friendly and nothing was too much trouble for them. They really were consummate hosts and you could just tell they'd put their heart and soul into place and genuinely cared that their customers not only enjoyed their stay, but loved their stay. The bedroom and bathroom were spotlessly clean and comfortable. The cooked breakfast in the morning was delicious and the fresh fruit and doorstep toast was amazing. Real coffee, real butter, and locally sourced products made this a breakfast to remember. My partner and I didn't have an evening meal at the Inn when we arrived but really regretted it when we tasted the breakfast the following morning. To add even more character to the place, the Saxon Inn also has two other permanent residents, the beautifully-docile and aloof Reggie (a gorgeous whippet), and Herman , an independent little dachshund who parades around wearing a bandana. Overall, it's a superb place to stay and eat. We'd highly recommend it."

The Swan Inn

➤ Swan Not Swann, North Dorset, United Kingdom, DT10 1AR

Carta • Pubs • Full • Salads • British

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"This review is for the restaurant that we visited on Saturday 24 February 2024. We had a very pleasant waitress who guided us to our table. I ordered liver and bacon with vegetables. The liver was overcooked and the bacon was very tough and inedible. Parsnips were totally burnt and akin to charcoal pieces, totally inedible. All of the small baby carrots showed signs of being burnt and scorched. My wife's bowl of chicken with salad came with a rasher of bacon, which again was very tough and inedible. We were the only customers in the restaurant. The question is how can the chef during the quiet period, manages to burn the food and then dishes up the food and says that it's ready to go to the customers table. Obviously no care for customer service nor any pride in their work. Will not go back and will not recommend this restaurant to anyone."

Sweet Pea Cafe More

➤ Market Cross, North Dorset, United Kingdom, DT10 1AN

Carta • Cafe • Vegan • British • Vegetarian

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"Visited Saturday 23/09/23 to meet up with some friends for lunch. Managed to get a table, really pretty little cafe, cosy seating. Decent menu, lovely friendly welcoming staff who genuinely appreciate your custom. We had jacket potatoes and quiches. Recommended and would return."