The Countryman Inn - Dorchester

Address: East Knighton, Dorchester DT2 8LL, United Kingdom.
Phone:1305233970.
Website: countrymanpub.co.uk
Specialties: Pub, Bar, Hotel, Inn.
Other points of interest: Outdoor seating, On-site services, Takeaway, Dine-in, Delivery, Bar games, Great beer selection, Great wine list, Live performances, Solo dining, Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible toilet, Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Food, Food at bar, Spirits, Wine, Seating, Table service, Casual, Cosy, Romantic, Groups, Tourists, Accepts reservations, Credit cards, Debit cards, NFC mobile payments, Good for kids, Free of charge street parking, Free parking lot, Paid parking lot, Dogs allowed.
Opinions: This company has 1151 reviews on Google My Business.
Average opinion: 4.3/5.

Location of The Countryman Inn

The Countryman Inn: A Charming Gem in East Knighton, Dorset

Nestled in the heart of East Knighton, a picturesque village in Dorset, lies The Countryman Inn, a charming establishment that has been serving the local community and visitors alike for many years. This traditional English pub, hotel, and inn is a beloved destination for those seeking a warm atmosphere, excellent food and drink, and a touch of old-world charm.

Main Services

  • Pub and Bar: The Countryman Inn is renowned for its lively pub and bar, offering a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. The expertly curated drinks menu ensures there's something to suit every taste, from cask ales and local brews to a diverse range of international wines and spirits.
  • Food: The inn's kitchen serves up a hearty and varied menu, using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Diners can enjoy traditional British dishes, seasonal specials, and vegetarian options in the pub's cozy dining areas or in the beautiful beer garden.
  • Accommodation: The Countryman Inn offers 12 well-appointed en-suite bedrooms, providing comfortable and affordable accommodation for guests. Each room is individually decorated and comes with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.
  • Events and Live Performances: The pub hosts regular events, including live music, quizzes, and themed nights. These events add to the inn's vibrant atmosphere and provide entertainment for both locals and visitors.

Location and Access

The Countryman Inn is situated at 1 Main Street, East Knighton, Dorchester DT2 8LL, United Kingdom. It is conveniently located just off the A354, making it easily accessible by car. The nearest train station is Dorchester South, approximately 5 miles away, and taxis are available for hire at the station. For those traveling by bus, the 502 and 503 services stop nearby in Puddletown, around a 15-minute walk from the inn. The pub offers ample free parking on-site, including a wheelchair-accessible car park. The entrance and toilet facilities are also wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that the establishment is welcoming and inclusive to all guests.

Featured Characteristics

One of the most striking features of The Countryman Inn is its beautifully maintained beer garden. Surrounded by lush greenery and filled with seating areas, both covered and open, it's the perfect place to enjoy a drink or meal alfresco. The beer garden also boasts a popular children's play area, making it an ideal spot for families. The inn's interior is characterful and inviting, with exposed beams, open fireplaces, and a mix of traditional and contemporary furnishings. Each of the 12 bedrooms is uniquely decorated, with some featuring four-poster beds and romantic roll-top baths. All rooms come with en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities. The Countryman Inn is also dog-friendly, welcoming well-behaved dogs in the bar and certain dining areas, as well as providing water bowls and treats in the beer garden. This makes it an excellent choice for those traveling with their four-legged friends.

Practical Information

  • Opening Hours: The pub is open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Food is served daily from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
  • Contact: You can reach The Countryman Inn by phone on 1305233970 or via email at [email protected]. The inn's website can be found at countrymanpub.co.uk.
  • Takeaway, Dine-In, and Delivery: The Countryman Inn offers takeaway, dine-in, and delivery options for food and drink. Delivery is available within a 5-mile radius, and the pub also provides a click-and-collect service for those who prefer to order online.
  • Bar Games: The pub has a selection of bar games available for guests to enjoy, including darts, pool, and a popular quiz machine.
  • Wheelchair Accessibility: As mentioned earlier, The Countryman Inn is wheelchair-accessible, with a designated car park, entrance, and toilet facilities for disabled guests.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

The Countryman Inn has received an impressive 1151 reviews on Google My Business, with an average rating of 4.3/5. Many of these reviews highlight the inn's warm and welcoming atmosphere, excellent food and drink, and friendly staff. Guests consistently praise the high-quality pub classics on offer, with the Sunday roast and homemade pies being particular favorites. The extensive drinks menu, including the well-curated selection of real ales, also receives high acclaim. The inn's beautiful beer garden is another major draw, with many reviewers commenting on its well-maintained appearance and the delightful children's play area. The comfortable and well-appointed bedrooms also receive positive feedback, with guests appreciating the attention to detail and the peaceful surroundings. The friendly and efficient service provided by the staff is another standout feature, with many reviewers mentioning the welcoming atmosphere and helpful nature of the team. This, combined with the inn's traditional charm and excellent food and drink, makes The Countryman Inn a popular choice for both locals and visitors to East Knighton and the wider Dorset area.

Frequently asked questions about The Countryman Inn

What type of food is served at The Countryman Inn?

The inn serves traditional British dishes, seasonal specials, and vegetarian options using locally sourced ingredients.

Does The Countryman Inn offer accommodation?

Yes, it offers 12 well-appointed en-suite bedrooms.

Is The Countryman Inn wheelchair-accessible?

Yes, it offers wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, and toilet facilities.

Are dogs allowed in The Countryman Inn?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome in the bar and certain dining areas. Water bowls and treats are also provided.

What events does The Countryman Inn host?

The pub hosts regular events, including live music, quizzes, and themed nights.

Reviews of The Countryman Inn

The Countryman Inn - Dorchester
Lee B.
5/5

We went for a work meal with 11 of us and we were met and taken straight to our reserved table by Rachael who looked after us brilliantly from start to finish. The service was friendly, fast and fuss-free. We all ordered starters and mains, and again the food was delivered in good time, and was utterly delicious and piping hot. I had the calamari and ‘dirty burger’ which I highly recommend, and there were clean plates and full bellies all round when we finished. Rach and the team were brilliant and looked after us all fantastically, and we were chatting about how nice it was this morning when we all came back to work. Looking forward to our next visit in a couple of weeks.😋

The Countryman Inn - Dorchester
Sophie H.
5/5

We came for my birthday last night (27/12) and the food and service we received was amazing! All staff very friendly and helpful. All the food was delicious, great portions + they even put a card and chocolates out on the table for my birthday and all came out singing happy birthday with candles on my pudding which was very thoughtful. The pub is lovely inside too! Would highly recommend this pub! X

The Countryman Inn - Dorchester
J L.
5/5

We stayed here for 3 days over Christmas. It's been a wonderful experience. We have 2 big German Shepherds, which were treated royally by all the staff 🥰 The room, food and the staff were all exceptional. We had a brilliant Christmas day and such a fun time that we'll be back ! Highly recommend. Thank you to the whole team ☺️👍

The Countryman Inn - Dorchester
Steven C.
2/5

Myself and my partner both had the medium sized carvery, we had both been recommended to go. To be honest the only saving grace was our very jovial and attentive waiter named Conner, we will however not be revisting the food was poor to say the least the young man serving was completely dismissive and couldn't have cut the joints thinner if he'd tried!! The amount given was extremely miserly and his comments throught his service to us were not appreciated at all!!.

The Countryman Inn - Dorchester
Abigale R.
5/5

Myself, daughter and son were at The Countryman on Sunday 11th January 2026 We had booked their carvery which is 10 out of 10 for food and service. As we finished our meal I was told by two lovely members of staff that our meals and drinks had been paid for by a wonderful lady and gentleman at the next table in a “Random act of kindness”. I was in tears at this incredible gesture, and I wish to thank them both very much, you have no idea what ment to us. And yes, I will most definitely be paying it forward Thank you. Thank you also to all the incredible staff at The Countryman Xx

The Countryman Inn - Dorchester
hefin R.
5/5

Absolutely incredible celebratory meal today at the Countryman. Food was absolutely wonderful and the carvery exceptional. Great range of beers, fabulous surroundings and such lovely staff. All finished off with a lovely gift for my daughter. Cannot wait to go again. Thanks guys 😁

The Countryman Inn - Dorchester
Corin M.
5/5

Fantastic place to eat, the carvery is superb. Dog friendly to the point staff came over with a tray full of meat offcuts from the carvery which made our dogs day. Highly recommended as a superb, affordable place for a family to enjoy a meal out.

The Countryman Inn - Dorchester
ChrisD532

I always wanted to visit this pub, I should have come years ago when people said, " The size of the mixed grill was so large, we couldn't finish it".......|Well, I think I've missed that train, coz it was a big disappointment with what I got. It tasted fine, but not a good portion for £24......Even the other 3 had a starter size mac and cheese, and cottage pie for a main meal, and they had to order some chips and bacon bits to boost the meal up.|This isn't the only pub that is serving sub standard size meals. |I can't afford to eat out at these prices and leave hungry and unhappy.|I know things are tough for the pub industry, but I think that this is keeping the punter away, especially if they're not getting food value for money.|I did have a word with the waitress and our main waiter on our disappointment, but they are just there to nod and smile.|I speak for the 4 of us, and we shall not be back, such a shame, but onwards, or backwards maybe, to the tried and tested pubs.|Overall, it is a lovely pub, warm and cozy, clean toilets and very pleasant staff.