Trumpet Major — Restaurant in England

Table 38 Date - 29/08/2024

I was really looking forward to revisiting the Trumpet Major after not visiting for a while. We received promotional vouchers through our letterbox to encourage new customers. However, that will not be the case for us. I came straight from work, ready to relax and enjoy a nice cold cider and a main meal with my fiancé. I went to order food and drinks from the bar, and unfortunately, I was asked for ID, which is fine. I didn't have any ID with me to prove my age, which never normally happens, hence why it was a shock. I understand they were only doing their job. However, they then refused to serve my partner, who is 30 years of age and had ID on him. When it states on GOV.UK that a person aged 16-17 can have a beer, cider, or glass of wine with a meal if they're accompanied by an adult, which is hilarious because I'm 28 years of age. However, if they really knew their legislation, they would not have refused my partner and let him order the drinks.

We decided to stay and carry on with our meal, then have a pie delivered to our table (leek, potato, and cheddar pie) that was not adequate at all, as it was cold and clearly did not comply with the Food and Legislation Act for food that has to be cooked at a temperature of 75° or above. Moreover, if they were expecting a busy night and hot-held several pies, it would have to meet 65° or above, and this was also not the case..

I have worked in hospitality for six years myself, and my partner is a food and beverage manager, so we know what we are talking about. I do not like to complain, but this was ridiculous. There was no offer of an apology or concern or even a replacement.

My advice would be that if you're going to send out promotional marketing, you may need to work on a few things first.

Kind...

Given a 2nd Chance!! NEW REVIEW after deleting one star review i left just over a year ago. We have eaten here at least 10 times a year for many many years and loved it. Until just over a year ago i left a damming review after the worst pub meal i had had in my life and it was like the venue was just about to go bust. Money up front, food awful and most things had run out and miserable or no service dirty cutlery and left halfway through feeling totally ripped off and upset as the old love had gone and many other reviews i read agreed. It was responded to a few weeks later stating new management had arrived but too little too late. However:-. We saw the 30% off mains offer and had heard some good things so we have visited again and WOW!!! like a new venue all freshly painted and our love is back. Food was great and potions were ample. Yes a little dearer but is not everything these days (Have you bought a takeaway laterly!!) but 30% offer was outstanding the venue was fresh and clean and the 2 waitress girls were friendly and pleasant and very happy to help. I have only dropped one star on my review as it would have been good to have been checked on while eating if everything is ok and any more drinks wanted but appreciate everyone struggling with staff at the moment and they were both very busy. I read review about card payment unable to leave tips for waitress so made an effort to put the cash together to be able to leave a tip as it was deserved. Was surprised how quiet it was and not complaining as it was lovely but sure as word gets out it will get busier again as that was spot on and we will return for sure and very soon.. PLEASE Marstons do not let it...

The Trumpet Major in Dorchester is a welcoming Marston’s pub that combines hearty, traditional food with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a warm smile and shown to a clean, comfortable table — a great start to what turned out to be a very enjoyable meal.

The menu offers a wide choice of pub favourites and seasonal specials, with something for everyone. For starters, I chose the breaded Brie wedges, which were perfectly golden and crisp with a lovely, gooey centre. For my main, I had the steak and ale pie — packed with tender beef and rich gravy in a flaky pastry crust. It came with creamy mashed potatoes and well-cooked vegetables, making it a proper comfort dish. My companion opted for the fish and chips, which were fresh, generous in size, and served with tartar sauce and mushy peas — exactly what you’d hope for from a traditional pub classic.

The food arrived hot and well-presented, and despite the pub being busy, service remained attentive and cheerful. The staff were friendly, helpful, and happy to check that everything was to our liking. Drinks were reasonably priced with a good selection of beers and ales on tap, including some local favourites.

The Trumpet Major has a cozy, family-friendly feel, with plenty of seating inside and a pleasant outdoor area for warmer days. It’s the sort of place where you can enjoy an unhurried meal and good conversation without feeling rushed.

Overall, The Trumpet Major is a great spot for a casual meal in Dorchester — reliable, relaxed, and good value for money. A solid choice for anyone after classic pub...