Harden's survey result
Summary
This “quaint pub in the tiny village of Evershot” – immortalised as the ‘Sow and Acorn’ in Thomas Hardy’s ‘Tess of the d’Urbervilles’ – offers “beautifully presented, consistently good and interesting” food from Kenyan-born chef Robert Ndungu. It is the more informal sibling of Summer Lodge on the other side of the village, from the Red Carnation hotel group.
Summary
The ‘Sow & Acorn’ in Thomas Hardy’s ‘Tess of the d’Urbervilles’ – this fifteenth-century coaching inn makes a “lovely setting for a short stay” in Hardy country, and is a sibling in the Red Carnation hotel group of posh Summer Lodge a short walk away. It boasts a “varied and imaginative menu” – “cooked with flair” by Kenyan-born chef Robert Ndungu, and “service is informal and friendly”.
For 34 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
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28 Fore St, Evershot, DT2 0JW
Restaurant details
The Acorn Inn Restaurant Diner Reviews

"Acorn offers a fantastic dining experience with its creative, seasonal menu and welcoming atmosphere. The dishes are beautifully presented and full of flavor, while the service is attentive and friendly. A must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable meal."

"The restaurant at The Acorn Inn is a standout feature, offering exceptional food that celebrates the best of local Dorset produce. With a menu that balances hearty classics and creative dishes, everything is freshly prepared and beautifully presented. Guests particularly love the Exmoor venison and line-caught cod, alongside indulgent desserts. The dining room is cozy and atmospheric, making it perfect for both a romantic dinner or a relaxed meal with friends. Complemented by a fine selection of wines and local ales, the dining experience here is consistently praised as one of the highlights of a visit."

"The Acorn lnn is a must-visit. The staff are incredibly friendly, and the food is exceptional - all locally sourced and cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting. Highly recommend!""

"The Acorn Inn in Evershot is a true gem, offering a dining experience that combines historic charm with exceptional food. The menu celebrates fresh, local ingredients, with standout dishes like perfectly cooked Dorset lamb and a flavorful wild garlic risotto. The desserts are a highlight, with the sticky toffee pudding and lemon posset stealing the show. Paired with the warm, rustic atmosphere and attentive service, The Acorn Inn is the perfect spot for an unforgettable meal in the heart of the English countryside."

"Set in the picturesque village of Evershot, The Acorn Inn offers a dining experience that beautifully blends historic charm with modern culinary excellence. This 16th-century coaching inn exudes character and warmth, making it the perfect backdrop for a meal that impresses on every level. From start to finish, the attention to detail and the quality of the food ensure a meal to remember. The menu is thoughtfully curated, celebrating the best of seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. Starters, such as the smoked salmon rillette or the wild mushroom arancini, showcase an elegant balance of flavors and textures, setting the tone for a delightful journey through the courses. For mains, the selection ranges from perfectly cooked Dorset lamb cutlets to creative vegetarian options like the wild garlic and pea risotto, each dish reflecting the chef's dedication to taste and presentation. What truly elevates the experience at The Acorn Inn is the atmosphere. The staff are incredibly welcoming and attentive, making you feel right at home while ensuring every detail of your meal is perfect. The cozy interior, with its wooden beams and rustic decor, adds a sense of timelessness, making your visit all the more special. Of course, the desserts deserve a mention of their own. Whether it's the indulgent sticky toffee pudding or the zesty lemon posset, every sweet treat is a triumph, perfectly capping off an already exceptional meal. Whether you're stopping in for a romantic dinner, a special celebration, or a casual meal in a quintessential English setting, The Acorn Inn offers a dining experience that delivers on all fronts. It’s more than a meal—it’s a celebration of great food, warm hospitality, and the charm of the English countryside."

"A Delightful Culinary Experience at The Acorn Inn in Evershot – A Dessert Lover’s Paradise Nestled in the charming village of Evershot, The Acorn Inn is a gem for food enthusiasts, offering a culinary experience that perfectly balances traditional English charm with a touch of sophistication. While every course is meticulously crafted and presented, the desserts truly steal the show, turning a great meal into an unforgettable experience. The dessert menu at The Acorn Inn is nothing short of exceptional, showcasing a variety of indulgent options that cater to both classic and adventurous palates. The Sticky Toffee Pudding is an absolute masterpiece—light, moist, and drenched in a rich toffee sauce, paired beautifully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. It's the kind of dessert that feels like a warm embrace on a cool Dorset evening. For chocolate lovers, the Dark Chocolate Fondant is a revelation. Perfectly executed, the fondant oozes molten chocolate at the slightest touch, complemented by a tangy berry coulis and a subtle hint of orange zest. It’s a testament to the kitchen’s precision and passion for flavor balance. Equally impressive is the Lemon Posset, a zesty and refreshing delight that comes with a buttery shortbread on the side. Its silky texture and bright citrus notes cleanse the palate while leaving you wanting just one more bite. Seasonal specials, such as fruit crumbles and tarts, highlight the freshest local produce, ensuring a dynamic and ever-changing dessert experience. Beyond the food, the warm and inviting atmosphere of The Acorn Inn adds to the overall magic. The attentive staff are knowledgeable and happy to recommend pairings, such as a dessert wine or coffee to perfectly round off your meal. If you’re seeking a restaurant where the desserts are not just an afterthought but a culinary crescendo, The Acorn Inn in Evershot is the place to go. It’s a haven for sweet-toothed diners and a perfect spot to indulge in a little slice of heaven."
Prices
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Wine per bottle | £28.00 |
Filter Coffee | £3.50 |
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Service | 10.00% |








28 Fore St, Evershot, DT2 0JW
Opening hours
Monday | 6 pm‑9 pm |
Tuesday | 6 pm‑9 pm |
Wednesday | 6 pm‑9 pm |
Thursday | 6 pm‑9 pm |
Friday | 6 pm‑9 pm |
Saturday | 6 pm‑9 pm |
Sunday | 6 pm‑9 pm |
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