Take a tour...
Expect warm smiles at every turn, a host of thoughtful touches, sumptuous rooms, and delicious cuisine, all set within the rolling hills of Dorset.
A warm welcome
The Acorn Inn, run by the enthusiastic and experienced management team of Natalie and Richard, is that increasingly rare thing – a traditional village pub full of life, laughter and good company, but with an award-winning restaurant that’s a star attraction in its own right. Built-in the 16th century from honey-coloured local stone, this historic coaching inn still retains its original historical character and charm. Thomas Hardy mentions it as 'The Sow & Acorn' in 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' and the style, with its old beams, low ceilings, oak panelling, flagstone floors and roaring open fires is little changed from his era.
The birthplace of Thomas Hardy
Thomas Hardy was born in Dorset and our village of Evershot is commonly referred to as Evershed in Hardy's novels. Few people know that Hardy was also an accomplished architect...
Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant
Visit our sister hotel Summer Lodge for delicious cuisine and impeccable service.
Their renowned sommelier will be on hand to offer the finest suggestion of wine to accompany your meal. Dine in our light and airy conservatory, the elegant Restaurant, or in the warm cosiness of the Whisky Bar, with many whiskies on offer.
Afternoon Tea is served every day in their Drawing Room and Conservatory. In the summer months, dine al fresco on Summer Lodge's terrace.
Meet our team
Led by General Managers Natalie & Rich, this is a family of passionate people, with a warm, inclusive ethos that embraces every aspect of our guests’ experiences. Our warm and welcoming team provides the perfect introduction to genuine village charm, and every one of us is deeply committed to giving the very best in all we do.
Our differences
Exceeding expectations at every turn, our Inn has a team that take genuine pride in delivering impeccable service. Set within the enchanting village of Evershot, enjoy delicious cuisine in our traditional country pub, a lively bar and real ales. Not to mention, our restaurant which has won top accolades for its exceptional gastro experience.
Extraordinary experiences
We pride ourselves on our carefully designed and memorable experiences for guests to enjoy. From outdoor pursuits to healing therapies, our knowledgeable team ensures every stay is as seamless and personalised as possible.
Delicious dining
Delicious dining
From mouth-watering seasonal flavours to carefully selected wines, our dining experiences deliver on our 'Best Country Dining Pub' award from The Good Pub Guide in 2021.
The power of passion
"The Acorn boasts a fascinating history. Built as a coaching inn in the 16th century, it was originally called the Kings Arms and brewed its own ales with water drawn from the source of the river Frome. When The Acorn was built, there were six pubs in the village; now, we are the only one remaining. Thomas Hardy’s ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’ is set in the area and The Acorn is the pub mentioned as ‘The Sow and Acorn’.
We began managing The Acorn in 2017 and we are extremely proud of our longstanding team members, who are so passionate about what they do. Our team have helped us earn some fantastic awards, such as Dorset Pub of the Year and Chef of the Year. The hotel works as one department and guests are always impressed at how well we get along.
Sustainability is always one of our top priorities. We grow our own herbs and vegetables, are involved in numerous recycling projects, volunteer for beach clean-ups and collect any unused water to nourish our garden.
The Acorn is all about local produce and guests love our pub classics such as local beer battered fish and chips with a lovely local pint of ale. Our area is also an attraction in itself, with beautiful green rolling hills packed with stunning walks and impressive beauty spots.
We look forward to welcoming you to our village pub very soon."
- Natalie and Richard Legg, General Managers
