Shoulder of Mutton

The Shoulder of Mutton is a traditional, family-run pub on Ringwood Road in Bear Cross, Bournemouth, where the welcome is warm, the ales are well kept and the regulars are very much part of the furniture. One of the oldest inns in Bournemouth, it has retained much of its original character — a public bar with a centuries-old flagstone floor and a separate, comfortable lounge. Dogs are welcome inside, so nobody needs to wait on the pavement.

Real ale enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, with Ringwood Fortyniner a longstanding favourite alongside changing guest ales. Darts teams, televised sport, quiz nights and occasional entertainment keep the community spirit alive, while the relaxed atmosphere makes it equally appealing for a quiet pint and a catch-up. Mon–Thu the pub opens from 5pm, Fri from 4pm, Sat from 2pm and Sun 12pm–4pm and again from 7pm.

Dogs are a familiar part of life here, with plenty of regulars bringing their four-legged companions along and a resident pub dog who may be wandering around off lead. Visiting dogs are welcome inside on leads, with free treats at the bar and water bowls available. It is the sort of place where arriving with a lead in hand feels entirely natural.