With a chill in the air, and the need to wrap up in hats, scarves and gloves, what could be better than warming up by the fire in one of Dorset’s pubs?

As well as delicious home-cooked food, you can expect local ale, cider and wine, alongside a growing range of non-alcoholic drinks.

Feel the warmth of the fire, as you enjoy the lively atmosphere and relaxed surroundings. Many of these pubs have a Sunday lunch menu, so you can treat yourself to another winter tradition – the Sunday roast!

To guarantee a table by the fire, be sure to make a booking in advance and call the pub to check the fire will be lit during your visit.

The New Inn

The New Inn in the pretty village of Church Knowle has fresh, homemade food on the menu as well as a Sunday carvery. In the main bar you'll find a welcoming log fire during the winter months. This rooms was originally a barn and cheese loft and now has traditional farmhouse tables and seating for around 40 people. 

The Saxon Arms

Located in the village of Stratton near Dorchester, The Saxon Arms offers real ale, great pub food and a hearty welcome. The pub has a changing daily-specials menu including lots of local, fresh produce.

The Grosvenor Arms

The Grosvenor Arms found in the heart of Shaftesbury is a historic coaching-inn. They have a log burner in their buzzy lounge-style bar and their restaurant was awarded gold in the 2022 Taste of the West Awards.

The Old Inn Holt

A traditional country pub situated close to the historic town of Wimborne Minster, The Old Inn at Holt prides themselves on preparing everything from scratch, from their Chicken Liver paté to children’s chicken nuggets. They also have a woodfired pizza oven for that perfect authentic Italian taste.

The Ship Inn

Offering menus for breakfast through to dinner, the old country charm of The Ship Inn at West Stour offers a flagstone floor bar with a roaring fire for the colder months. Winners of the 2022 Taste of the West Gold award, their head chef and patron Nick is a 'field to fork' Chef who previously worked at The Shard and Savoy in London.

The Cross Keys Inn

Known for its excellent home-made English pub food, The Cross Keys Inn is a traditional rural English 16th Century Inn, warm and cosy with an Inglenook Fireplace and lots of original features. They serve a variety of ales, traditional ciders, wine and over 150 spirits.

Going walking?

If you want to combine a walk with a pub lunch, you could also read our winter pub walks blog for a few more ideas.