EVERYONE loves a traditional pub. And there are lots to choose from in Dorset.

If you like your pint served with plenty of character, here are five historic pubs that are open to customers now.

The Greyhound Inn, Corfe Castle

Boasting history and a stunning view, The Greyhound Inn dates back to the 15th century. You can enjoy real ales and traditional ciders while overlooking one of Dorset’s most popular and well-known landmarks, Corfe Castle.

Described as a family friendly old English country pub, it has lots of features including solid oak and Purbeck stone floors. Plus, you can even watch the historic steam trains pass by along the Swanage Railway line.

Open 10am to 9pm daily with food served between 12pm and 8pm.

The Old Thatch, Wimborne

This award-winning 17th century family pub sits opposite the historic Stapehill Abbey. It is situated just off Castleman’s Trailway which links Wimborne to Ferndown and Ringwood to Poole.

The watering hole is currently open for outdoor service and there are even blankets on hand for customers if they get cold.

As reported last month, Andy Lennox – known for the Zim Braai restaurants – has gone into partnership with Nick Pestana who runs the Old Thatch with plans to turn it into a gastro and country store.

It prides itself on a “wide selection of local ales, a superb menu with great daily offers on our delicious food”.

The Crown, Blandford

If you like a pub with some scary ghost stories to boot, look no further than The Crown.

The Georgian coaching inn is believed to be the oldest in Dorset and has been a residence since the 10th century.

The Hall and Woodhouse pub is situated just close to the brewery in Blandford Forum. In 2017, it underwent a £3m refurbishment to restore it to its former glory.

It’s reportedly haunted by several ghosts including an 18th Century highwayman who was shot dead when trying to rob the hotel and a ‘woman in black’ who wanders the corridors.

The Ye Old George Inn, Christchurch 

The Ye Old George Inn in Castle Street is the oldest pub in Christchurch with six centuries of history behind it. 

The pub is open between 11am and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays and 11am to 11pm Sunday to Thursday. 

The World's End, Almer

Parts of The World's End pub, which is situated on the A31 between Poole and Dorchester, date back to the 14th century. 

It was once the oldest pub in Dorset until a fire raised it to the ground.

However, it was rebuilt in 1991 and retains much of its original character.

The pub is serving food between 12pm and 7pm with the bar open from 12pm to 9pm except on Sundays when the pub serves food between 12pm and 4pm with the bar open from 12pm to 6pm.