Seven reasons why The Square & Compass is one of the best pubs in Dorset

The Square & Compass is a much-loved gem of a pub, located in the picturesque village of Worth Matravers (in the heart of Dorset's area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Serving local beer and cider and a small but hearty selection of warm, homemade pasties and pies, it's definitely the place to visit after a bracing coastal walk or bike ride!

Here's why we highly recommend you visit, whether you're a local or a visitor to Dorset...

1. Atmosphere

No matter the time of year, whether you're warming your cockles with a pint and pastie by the roaring fire, or cooling down in the garden with a cold cider after a hike up from Winspit, you just can't beat the atmosphere. Always warm and welcoming and full of fellow Square & Compass fans that are so happy to be there. 

2. Location/proximity to walking routes

With a car park just a few metres up the road, the pub is a great start and end point for the breathtaking walking routes. We recommend the 4.4-mile circular walk from Worth Matravers down to Winspit Quarry, then west to join the South West coast path along the clifftops to reach St Aldhelm's Head.

3. Selection of beers and ciders

Being a Freehouse, the Square & Compass can choose their own selection of beers and ciders; and they've chosen well, with most brewed locally.

4. The Garden

With a large beer garden overlooking the rugged coast, plenty of outdoor seating and even a Shepherd's Hut to shelter in when the weather's not playing ball, you can't beat the garden at The Square & Compass.

5. Entertainment

There's always a busy calendar of live music, open mic nights and festivals which are great fun and a good excuse to keep returning, whatever the weather.

6. Cosy fireplaces

With its exposed brick and beams and traditional fireplaces, you can't beat spending a cold winter's day in the warmth and comfort of the Square & Compass with a lovely glass of red by the fire.

7. The people

The staff and punters are always friendly and lots of fun. It's busy pretty much no matter the time of year or day, so you'll usually be sharing a table and you're guaranteed good friendly banter and a shared love of The Square & Compass.

We hope you enjoy your visit to The Square & Compass as much as we always do. It's so hard to find a truly traditional pub these days and we're very lucky to have one of the best here in Dorset.

To go to the pub's website, click here