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The Britannia
The Britannia is a wonderful pub and brasserie situated in lower Parkstone.
20 Britannia Road , Parkstone , Poole, Dorset, BH14 8BB
Website Email 01202 402212Let's Talk
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REVIEW: Pre-Theatre Perfection: New Spring Menu at The Britannia Parkstone
Before heading to the Banff Mountain Film Festival at Lighthouse Poole for a rare girls night, we were looking for somewhere local to treat ourselves to a delicious, relaxed pre-theatre dinner—and The Britannia in Ashley Cross, Parkstone delivered on every front.
The newly launched Spring Menu is fresh, seasonal, and full of colour—exactly what you want as the days get longer and lighter. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with a gentle buzz of fellow diners enjoying everything from after-work drinks to family dinners.
The service always really stands out at The Britannia. In true style, we were made to feel special and had lots of friendly banter with our waiter. He clearly loves what he does and was so enthusiastic and efficient. One of my friends has an allergy which he was extremely considerate of.
Seasonal Starters
We began with starters all round - I along with a few others had the Mediterannean Fish Soup with Gruyere, garlic rouille, croutons (absolutely exceptional and I felt like I was physically in the mediterannean while eating this. The remainder of the group had the Chalkstream trout gravadlax creme fraiche, soused cucumber. It all looked too pretty to eat. A perfect appetiser before the main event.
Show-Stopping Mains
For mains, the Dressed Devon crab crab mayonnaise, chips, mixed leaf salad was the highlight. A traditional Beef and ale pie with smooth mash, green beans, baby onion & mushroom gravy was also a hit along with the Spring Vegetable risotto with peas, broad beans, asparagus & wild garlic oil which was comforting, creamy, and packed with seasonal punch. A must-try for vegetarians or anyone craving a bowl of spring goodness. I had the Chalkstream trout sat beautifully presented atop almond potatoes and watercress sauce; which I had worried may be a little small, but it was absolutely delicious and I left satisfied but not sleepy ahead of an evening at the Theatre!
We couldn't squeeze a desert as we were watching the clock but I'll definitely be returning for the Pistachio souffle with Jude's chocolate ice cream very soon!
The Verdict
The Britannia Parkstone is a brilliant choice for pre-theatre dining. Just a short drive or walk to Lighthouse Poole, with a menu that’s full of seasonal flair, a relaxed yet stylish setting, and service that ensures you won’t miss curtain-up.
The service was friendly, efficient, and perfectly paced for a pre-show meal (although we were having so much fun we relaxed about timings and stayed for another drink before heading off a little late to our show - the site of a good time!)
Whether you’re catching a show, meeting friends, or simply want to celebrate the arrival of spring in style, this menu ticks all the right boxes.
Book your table at The Britannia Parkstone here: https://www.thebritannia.co.uk/book-a-table
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