The Weld Arms, East Lulworth (From Bournemouth Echo)

The Weld Arms, East Lulworth

10:04am Monday 30th November 2009

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I HAD been scouring Dorset looking for pubs that offered traditional games as part of a feature I was writing for the Echo’s weekend magazine.

My search brought me to the Weld Arms in East Lulworth, at about teatime one evening last week.

The country roads surrounding the tiny village were quiet, dark and creepy, a complete contrast to the warmth and cheer inside this rural boozer.

As my partner and I walked into the pub we were welcomed by friendly staff, a roaring fire and (most importantly) two vacant sofas in front of the hearth – it was more like a family home than a pub.

The biting air and gale force winds were history as we sipped our drinks – a pint of Dorset Gold and a G & T – and perused the menu in front of the fire.

Suitably warm we dragged ourselves off the sofas and onto a table near the bar, where we ordered some food – fish and chips and the pork tenderloin with new potatoes and vegetables.

Running dry, we also ordered two large glasses of the sumptuous Solar Viejo.

As we waited for our food there was plenty to keep us entertained including a chess board and a shove ha’penny board, which I was told is more than 100 years old.

Happily the food arrived before the games got too competitive and the dishes looked superb.

Without asking, the jovial waitress brought a couple of glasses of water to our table and it was touches like these that made the service exemplary.

The food was extraordinary too.

Clearly subscribing to the “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it” ethos, The Weld Arms served a classic fish and chips with peas.

The crispy batter, succulent fillet and perfectly cooked chips were spot on.

Looking at the fish and chips I almost regretted not choosing it myself, but the pork tenderloin won me over.

The meat was tender and juicy, the gravy rich and creamy and the colourful selection of crunchy vegetables was perfect.

Warm, content and in no mood to leave the pub, we grudgingly stepped back into the cold air to return home.

Including drinks the bill came to a reasonable £39.70.

The Weld Arms had spoiled us.

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