Long before it was a drinking establishment the Porterhouse 113 Poole Road, Westbourne, Dorset it was owned by C Dales Photography & also Watchmaker, Jeweller Optician and Electrical Engineer skilled in the repair of all scientific instruments.

It was granted a licence for beers wines and spirits and changed its name to the Old Thumper, a traditional style wood-panelled one bar local, populated by regulars, shoppers and office workers. It was taken over by Ringwood Brewery who opened it as a cosy local traditional British pub, with a bustling atmosphere, where conversation dominates. Full of character; it still has a wooden floor, oak panelling but no longer has the hops adorning the bar.