1 The Half Moon

You’ll have to book if you’re hoping to get a table here. That’s how good it is. And as our reviewer pointed out, ‘the cottage garden with lovely views makes it the perfect place for a summer pint’. It’s a thatched gastro-pub with an innovative menu making use of lesser-known fresh local ingredients.

2 The Inn at Cranborne

Everyone is welcome here from babies to four legged friends! Relax in 17th Century surroundings, renovated to give a chic countrified atmosphere. A hearty menu and well-kept real ales seal the deal.

3 The Marquis of Lorne

A favourite of local explorers – the pub is set in stunning Dorset countryside close to the well-known Eggardon Hill fort which is ripe with history of olde. So go for a good stomp and admire the views, to enjoy a much needed pint afterwards. Or just sit and watch the others do it from the comfort of the little beer garden.