For many years, Bournemouth has been the ideal coastal town in which to enjoy a tipple while taking in the sea air.

In years gone by many roads had a pub on them – some of them more than one. But over the past couple of decades the boozers have been closing at an alarming rate, including those featured in these pictures.

Delving into the archives, The Daily Echo is revisiting the cherished establishments that once anchored the community and are dearly missed by its residents.

The following pubs have either been demolished or changed dramatically and although this is far from being a complete list, it is the first of a series:

The Criterion

The Criterion was located at 41-43 Old Christchurch Road. The pub closed in 2004 and is now clothing shops.

The Ragged Cat

The Ragged Cat was at one time called The Palmerston Arms. The pub, located at 534-536 Christchurch Road, is now a supermarket.

The Royal Oak

The Royal Oak, once situated on Wimborne Road, was demolished in 2014 to make way for a new Tesco store.

Gander on the Green

Gander on the Green was a favourite of bikers and rock music fans. The pub stood on the site of the rebuilt former Metropole Hotel and became The Christopher Creeke after being purchased by JD Wetherspoon in 2009.

The Dolphin

The Dolphin, on Holdenhurst Road, was closed in August 2011 and has since been converted into a Tesco Express.

The Malt & Hops

Until the late 1980s/early 1990s, The Malt & Hops was called the Pinecliff Bars. Situated on the corners of Seabourne Road and Parkwood Road, the pub closed in 2009. The Brewhouse and Kitchen now operates out of the premises.

Gullivers Tavern

Gullivers Tavern was located on Wimborne Road and was originally known as The Dolphin. The grade-II listed pub was renamed Gullivers Tavern in 1993 after the local smuggler Isaac Gulliver. The Gullivers Tavern was shut in 2018 but has since reopened as The Acorn.

More lost pubs to feature soon,