A PUB with "rustic delight" and "unspoilt" interiors has been named as the best Dorset has to offer.
The Square & Compass in Worth Matravers was included in a list from The Telegraph which named the best pub from each of England's 48 ceremonial counties.
Travel writer Will Hawkes pulled this together "based on years of assiduous research" and some local intel.
He said: "It used to be easy to make yourself unpopular wherever you went in England. Suggest the local football team was congenitally incompetent or cast aspersions on the abilities of the region’s fish friers, say, and hackles would be raised.
"Pronounce the local pubs rubbish, from the ale to the atmosphere, though, and you’d be absolutely guaranteed a barney.
"The world has changed, but this is still a pretty reliable way to start a row in all four corners of the realm."
The full list of the best pubs from every English county can be found on The Telegraph website here.
What was said about The Square & Compass?
Hawkes waxed lyrical about The Square & Compass, especially for its choice about where to enjoy your pint.
He wrote: "This rustic delight offers a genuine dilemma when visited on a warm summer’s evening.
"Is it better to take your drink outside, with its view over rolling green fields towards the grey-blue sea, or to stay inside and experience one of the most unspoilt pub interiors in the land? Either way, you’re in luck."
On its website, the pub describes itself as "a true gem in the heart of Dorset".
It added: "Award-winning beers and ciders including home-pressed traditional cider made by the owner, are the perfect accompaniment to a traditional hot pasty or pie.
"Live music is also served up on a regular basis with bands and artists playing at the pub on evenings and Sunday afternoons throughout the year."
The pub has been well-received by those who frequent it, as it has earned a 4.5/5 score on Tripadvisor from 583 reviews.
One person wrote: "Came across this on southwest coast walk sunny day blistering heat. I thought it was a mirage after 6 hours of walking and we are to be picked up from here. A good few pints of Devon red cider before we rung for lift. What a great spot."
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Another shared: "I haven’t written a review in a long time, but I feel compelled to say something. This is the greatest pub in the UK.
"Why visitors to the country visit the Houses of Parliament etc when they miss out on this place in rural Dorset is criminal. Such a shame it is so much in a league of its own."
A third posted: "Our go to place in our favourite part of the country. Quirky, fun with fantastic views and amazing beer. This has become a must visit place every time we visit Dorset. Hope to be back at the end of the year!"
