BOURNEMOUTH has long been the perfect seaside town in which to quench a thirst.

In years gone by many roads had a pub on them – some of them more than one.

Over the past couple of decades dozens of boozers have shut, including those featured in these pictures.

Each served as a focal point within the community and its loss is often lamented by locals.

The Daily Echo is going back through the archives to remember some of these bastions of social activity.

The following pubs have either been demloished or changed dramatically.

The Criterion

The Criterion was located at 41-43 Old Christchurch Road. The pub closed in 2004 and is now clothing shops.

The Ragged Cat

The Ragged Cat was at one time called The Palmerston Arms. The pub, located at 534-536 Christchurch Road, is now a supermarket.

The Royal Oak

The Royal Oak, once situated on Wimborne Road, was demolished in 2014 to make way for a new Tesco store.

Gander on the Green

Gander on the Green was a favourite of bikers and rock music fans. The pub stood on the site of the rebuilt former Metropole Hotel and became The Christopher Creeke after being purchased by JD Wetherspoon in 2009.

The Dolphin

The Dolphin, on Holdenhurst Road, was closed in August 2011 and has since been converted into a Tesco Express.

The Malt & Hops

Until the late 1980s/early 1990s, The Malt & Hops was called the Pinecliff Bars. Situated on the corners of Seabourne Road and Parkwood Road, the pub closed in 2009. The Brewhouse and Kitchen now operates out of the premises.

Gullivers Tavern

Gullivers Tavern was located on Wimborne Road and was originally known as The Dolphin. The grade-II listed pub was renamed Gullivers Tavern in 1993 after the local smuggler Isaac Gulliver. The Gullivers Tavern was shut in 2018 but has since reopened as The Acorn.

More lost pubs to feature next week.