Compton Abbas Airfield in North Dorset

We only stopped in for coffee and cake on a wet and windy Sunday, so no planes were flying, but I was really impressed by the place. I hadn't been in since the old regime, and was impressed by the indoor and outdoor spaces for eating and drinking, and the menu looks good- not your standard fare. Cakes and coffee were great today, thank you, and the staff are charming.

Wow.......what a very disappointing lunchtime visit! Haven't been here since it's been refurbed. The old restaurant had a great selection of meals, snacks, cakes, etc. This time, it was a variation on a meat theme. We went fairly safe, ordering the nachos. Paid for the 'add on' smoked chicken, expecting it to be tander chicken breast. Instead, it was a fatty, bitty mess which neither of us could eat. Like my wife said, it looked like the titbits you might scrape into the cat's dish after a roast dinner! It was only when the bill came, we saw that we'd been served chicken thigh. Had it said that on the menu, we would have avoided it in the first place. Regards atmosphere.......well apart from the same great views.....there was none! We ate at 1pm and our table for two was 1 of only 5 occupied. When I last visited here, the place would have been rammed at that time of day, which says a lot. Our waitress was pleasant enough but seemed to be just going through the motions, not engaging with us at all. The final insult was getting the bill to see that we'd been charged service charge........ ..yes.......our table for 2! We won't be returning and I wouldn't recommend it. Shame that the new owners felt compelled to change what didn't need changed.

Excellent spot for a coffee or lunch. But let down by not having a proper coffee machine

Have been up to the Airfield a few times since Guy Richie took over and all I can say is that this company have savaged the rustic Airfield that was once there and turned it into upmarket trash in rural Dorset. The beer is good, the service is lacking and not comparable to anything in Shaftesbury, whose eateries and bars are actually grateful of your custom. The Airshow was a complete disaster with badly planned parking and hardly any planes. The cost was extortionate, RIAT was slightly more expensive but with 100s more aircraft. Spitfire days charging £10 to park to see a spitfire take off. Just park along the road or in any of the lay-bys around and you’ll see it for free! Fireworks 💥 WOW these were spectacular and at £25 per car or £35 for a people carrier which isn’t bad value for money if you have a car full. A round of drinks for 4 came to around £20 so that was acceptable however £10 for a hot dog in a stale roll was extortionate. They purposely didn’t display any prices until you had ordered and then it was £10 for the most disgusting hot dog I’ve ever purchased. Princesses Tinned Hotdogs tasted 1000 times better. The car parking was great however who fills up a car park from the back??? There was lots of space and it wasn’t overcrowded so well done on getting the numbers right. All in all what used to be a lovely place to go and to stop by and watch some aircraft has turned into an overpriced badly run spot. Avoid at all costs unless it’s fireworks night, then bring your own food

Cool location, great views and service, excellent BBQ food!

Linda genuinely welcomed us with great service and assistance (we were 3 with 3 dogs). Food served by Dan was wanderful. Loved the cocoa silhouette of the ww2 bomber sprinkled on the froth!

Service was horrendous, took ages and felt very unorganised. Food & drink was nice when it eventually came out.

Sunday Vintage weekend. We booked for lunch for four adults. We ordered 2 pulled beef burgers and two pulled pork burgers. We had a long wait but accepted that as it was extremely busy. Absolutely not value for money but even worse, all 4 of us had upset stomachs for the following 24 hours. Terrible food, sadly not to be repeated.

Probably picked the wrong day as so busy with bikers and plane enthusiasts. Que out the door. We had a reserved table but service so slow. Food disappointing and not cheap. Great location and views. Free parking. Would go again but just for coffee and cake.

As I can’t do a second, separate review, I am updating this review after visiting again one year later (October 2024). I’m always prepared to give somewhere a second chance but sadly the airfield cafe FAILED again today. They have a HUGE car park, a HUGE picnic area with tables…but they don’t seem to be able to cope with large numbers of visitors. Today all we wanted was a hot cup of coffee but we were shoo-ed outside with about 8 other people in front of us who were equally dismayed to be told the staff needed half an hour to restock!! This was just to get a hot drink! It was quite busy outside (a beautiful sunny day brought out all the aircraft enthusiasts and motor bikers) and yet the cafe/restaurant can’t cope! Apparently a large group of Harley Davidson riders had come all the way from Bridgewater. I’m sure they must have been disappointed. Even the outside hot food/drink cabin was closed. Nobody expects it to be open all the time…but a sunny, weekend day?? We’ve learnt our lesson. In future we will copy all the others who brought their own food and hot drinks. Summer 2023: We’d been to the ‘old’ cafe and were keen to see the new development. Positives: spacious building and outside. Good parking and lots of picnic benches. Good place to watch planes. Negatives: slow staff. Four girls at reception when we arrived. No queue, just us. Chat chat…At least a long minute before we were even acknowledged. Sent to bar to order a baguette. Six staff behind bar. Seven customers queuing. Another 7 minute wait. Worse still…post office queue system. If you choose the wrong one…! To put a one queue system in place would be so easy as they have the space. Rubbish choice of fillings. If you don’t like tuna or mozzarella or pesto….forget it. No cheddar. No ham. No chicken. Then we had to listen to the dreary trad jazz.

Fantastic refurb, stunning views. Do not go for food. -or coffee. From a machine can’t even do oat milk. Pulled pork like eating chunks of rubber. Lousy choice. Poorly presented. Get better from a burger van. Start again with a new manager, new kitchen crew, new menu. The place was empty now I know why. If only I’d read the reviews.

Dont take cash otherwise 5 star

Great fun.. something different with a lovely atmosphere

Been 3 times this summer and already arranging return visit at the end of October with family and friends. Eaten tasty food from the smokehouse on one occasion but looking at some comments about small portions i found it more than ample and same goes with cost, found this to be spot on...not only free parking, enjoyed great activity in the air to with friends, so found it to be a lovely afternoon out. Staff have also been very friendly and helpful too! We'll definately return time and again, shame its not on our doorstep, else you'd find me enjoying daily 😆

Busy little GA airfield, great place to sit and watch the world (and aircraft!) go by

I emailed to ask about vegetarian and vegan options - no reply. Very limited breakfast option, nothing for a vegan. Only oat milk in a jug and no milk alternatives outside. An expensive morning to see a spitfire in a field and pay £10 to park.

Great atmosphere. Friendly, helpful staff. The beer is good according to my companion. ( I was driving) The food was ok, not brilliant.

Nothing to recommend it apart from the view! The menu was limited, the food was dreadful, even the coffee was awful! Then we were moved on before we’d finished our coffee. They’ve got rid of the sofas and the nice ambience!

As a family we have just enjoyed the most fabulous day at Compton Abbas airfield. Every member of the staff we encountered were impressively professional, friendly and totally committed to their guests having the absolute best experience. The ‘ground crew staff’, I’m not sure what the proper term is but those who marshall the airfield, oversee scheduled events and individual flights were just incredible and whilst we were there we learned that most of these staff are voluntary due to their utter passion/obsession for aircraft .. they were just excellent. I cannot comment on the restaurant food as we actually brought a picnic but the atmosphere of the entire place is quite special.. The incredible surrounding scenery of the rolling Wiltshire Downs and in the company of fellow enthusiasts, happy families and visitors just makes for the most unforgettable day. Thank you so much to all at Compton Abbas Airfield!

We went to try out the smokery and had high expectations, having tried an American smokery before. Whilst the food wasn't completely up to expectations, for example there could have been Brisket on the menu, nevertheless it was good. It's a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the airfield. The seating could be more comfortable, but we had a good time. The menu is not huge, but that's quite helpful for making decisions!

A fantastic flight, spoiled by a very disappointing lunch for 4 of us. Even the coffee was awful. Suffice to say that we will be taking a picnic next time!

For the first time in my 68 years , we were asked to leave after finishing our coffees and pastries to make room for a “diner” ie someone spending more than us . these people really do not have a clue

It wasn’t busy but even then, the lady manager was very brusque and unpleasant. She couldn’t have made us feel more unwelcome. She needs a new vocation that doesn’t require courtesy or charm, whilst Compton Abbas needs a manager who likes people. Shame.

Incredibly dissapointed. Myself and my parents used to reguarly come here in its previous ownership. I went back today with a friend and just had a drink each (specifically a bottle green elderflower and a Fentmans Ginger Beer) I was absolutely dumbfounded to be presented with a bill for £8!! I said is this correct to the lady behind the bar. She said it was and I displayed my dissapointment and said I could buy a 6 pack for the same cost at a supermarket and what they are charging is extortionate. She said well this isnt a supermarket and they have to make a markup. Now I understand that however if you buy a bulk pack of fentmans ginger beer 24 bottles it costs £22 which is 91 p per bottle so how on earth is a 300% markup deemed reasonable. Honestly Guy Ritchie has ruined this place. Greedy people slowly ruining everything that was good about this world.

Food was ok, nothing spectacular just a pretty average burger in reality. Prices seemed ok initially but they are misleading. They add 10% service charge to everything. This is not some fancy silver service restaurant with one waiter per table, it’s a burger joint. They only sell burgers and pretty average ones at that. To add insult to injury they refuse payment by cash. I’m not sure if it’s even legal but if you don’t want mine that’s your loss. Actually it’s our kids loss. What sort of country are we leaving them when they can’t pay for a bloody burger with cash? Think it through…Ahame on you.

Went for light breakfast and food and especially the service was excellent .

Unfortunately it has changed, and not for the better.

Great place to watch vintage aircraft at close up .

My husband and father in law had booked their spitfire and Harvard experience. We booked a table for 8 people for 11am til 1pm. Having arrived for 11am we were told we could only order from the breakfast menu as they wouldn't be able to serve us lunch in time as we had to vacate table at 1pm. Very disappointed by the small breakfast menu of just breakfast baps. At 12:30 we were told we had to leave our table at 12:45 as they had to clear the table for the next customer. Why the staff didn't just clear our table whilst we were sat there I don't know. Lots of staff just stood around, so could have done so. Considering we were there for the flight experience, which costs thousands, to be given a small limited menu and told to leave our table was such a disappointment. Maybe consider a nice lounge area and nicer menu for those who have an experience day booked.

While I understand that weather plays a big part in aircraft flying I felt disappointed when I finally managed to arrive. Firstly the signs stopped In the village with no further direction so I chose right? .......Wrong it was left. Luckily I followed the shuttle bus to find the car park on my third round. The shuttle was efficient although my initial direction from a gate guard was to go back to the entrance???? In broken English "Where" I asked and he pointed back the way I came after 2.5 hrs driving to get to the air show. Once In the show, I noticed that there was segregation via color coding, unfortunately, I wasn't privy to the seating area, and after 2hrs of walking up and down like a caged lion with my lioness who was not happy at this time and required a seat then we hear through the muffled tanoy system " Visibility is not good so planes are grounded until further notice" On that note we had to leave disappointed after only seeing the very first flights including the Swordfish. Tally ho we are off to the car park for a decent seat, tea and heal from standing. Some pointers to think about. Chairs or some form of seating for the onlookers should be included in the ticket Lack of grass for foot comfort unless of course your a lizard where there is plenty of rocky terrain. Security seemed to be in the format of bouncers that looked intimidating, at an airshow?????? Totally inflated food prices,or high cholesterol snacks. Please consider these points next time an airshow is considered as all public require basic comfort and shouldn't have to pay for it.

The airfield facilities have come on in leaps and bounds since Guy Richie has bought the airfield. Excellent restaurant / cafe, really well trained staff who couldn't be nicer. Event weekends are a nice touch bringing added interest. Great place to be if the weather behaves itself.

Terrible menu! I have loved this place for years, and the visits by Spitfires etc are very much appreciated, but please wake up to how poor the menu is.

Very disappointed with our meal ,came in today 14th August, and the chips were not that hot ,the beef was not that good ,and for the monet would of thought, you would at least get side salad and peas , sad to say we won't go here again for a meal

My Husband and I attended this unique airshow on both days. The weather on Saturday was not good for flying but the venue didn't disappoint. The Compton Abbas staff are just wonderful. They deliver 5* customer service as well as being approachable and friendly The food was delicious and well presented. Thank you for a great weekend.

Attended location for an aviation event. Massively overpriced ticket, the hype of what would be offered fell hugely short. Poorly organised, food was rubbish a so called lavish lunch was nothing more than a hotdog with a small amount of salad if you chose. The wonderful Gold arena was picnic benches or some very underwhelming tables in a tent and you had the delight of using a porta loo with no water running and I watched while one was spun around on the spot whilst friends laughed. When concerns were raised with management you were met with a level of contempt by Simon and a rather horrid individual wearing a pink t-shirt that clashed with her orange hair. What did fly was wonderful to see until it was called off which I totally understand can happen with that location and you can’t control the weather. It was a great shame the whole day was tainted by the approach of the two members of staff and the level of detail and hospitality on offer. This was a complete money scam.

Compton Abbas airfield is my favourite. Fond memories of flying in there with my dad. The food is always great, staff friendly and amazing scenery. Now I'm learning to fly it will be my first solo destination.

Fantastic location and we've Bern coming here for 20 years. However what an earth has happened to the coffee. It no longer from a Barrista machine but a one touch low quality device. Latte and cappuccino left us with a sour taste. Come on team this is a quality establishment let down by terrible coffee

Absolutely fantastic! A fairly limited choice if food however, the food that they offer is extremely good. I had the rib of beef that had been smoked and it was divine. Will be going back again very soon. Worth noting that it's extremely advisable to book as it can get very busy here; for good reason.

Although I knew the Airfield had closed for awhile for refurbishment, I hadn’t realised it was under new ownership. And when you realise he is Guy Ritchie it explains a lot. A sizeable investment in the building etc, plus a huge expansion of parking spaces. But whereas previously it was a modest destination, a cafe where you could eat within a tight budget, it is now less affordable for many. Food was good, and comparible to local pubs and farm shops. But as we all know, eating out for less than £15 head is history. august 24 Just checked out some recent reviews here, as my daughter tells me many comments on FB are negative. A great shame as under the previous owners it was so good. You money doesn’t buy quality Guy

Had lunch in the new restaurant with our family. Delicious food, happy staff and wonderful view of the airfield. Very highly recommend 10/10

Lovely location, staff and food at very reasonable prices. It's also a family-friendly place. It was so nice to be able to get close to the aircraft and talk to pilots.

No atmosphere, bad coffee, expensive food with very little choice. A good cafe ruined - shame

Flight in a Tiger Moth for 45 mins, fantastic experience in which I took control of the plane for a while. Great people 👏

What a magical place to spend a few hours on a warm day. Lovely countryside views, plent of outdoor seating including loads of picnic tables alongside the low fence separating you from the active airfield. You really feel like you're right in the middle of the action. Their outdoor catering is unique with a large rustic style outside bar and food hut. The aircraft activity was constant with a variety of aircraft from Spitfire and biplanes to microlights and gyrocopters. I didn't sample the food but it looked good!

Lovely location, lovely staff and lovely food at very reasonable prices. Its also a family friendly place. So nice to be able to get close to the aircraft and talk to pilots and crew. Very well worth a visit even if you are not bothered about aircraft. I will be back soon! 👍😁

Great for breakfast and lunch. Pre book groups. It can get very busy at peak times so allow time as all the meals are cooked to order. Lovely staff and fantastic locatiom. Restricted access to main restaurant now means this has meant the dining service has been moved to a shed and is no longer acceptable. New owner has upgraded this attraction. Far better parking and viewing area.

Very busy today, will visit again midweek to see if it is less so. Didn't use any of the facilities as it was so busy. But lovely place non-the-less.

Such a waste of time. I’ve driven twice for three hrs to events. Air show was a joke just two spitfires taking off and disappearing for twenty mins and then coming back to land. No stunts! No food in restaurants, only outside hut at extortionate prices…. Not many could afford it so it shut early. Landrover show! Ha ha… 3 Landrovers on show. No food. Whole even just gave up and finished early. One good thing! Wonderful Spanish Lager!

Called up a few months in advance of my fathers 50th birthday to book a table. Advised that the time I requested (11:30am) could not be accommodated due to it being changeover from breakfast to lunch. No offer or suggestion of moving it to 12pm and advised there will be tables for walk ins available so I said ok. Arrived on the planned date 23rd June 2024 to be told that there are no tables available as they were all reserved. Explained I had called up previously and the staff member wasn’t very helpful but they spoke with the manager who said they could not find a table for us (he didn’t even attempt to). James May (top gear) walked in after us and he was also declined when he requested a table. I asked if we could order food to the outside seating area but they said no. They advised us that we could order food and drinks from the little van down the end of the gravel area. I waited in line there to be told the coffee machine was not working and if we wanted to order hot drinks we would have to go back inside. Off my father went to order coffees whilst I waited in the ‘food/cold drinks’ line. The only food options on offer were crisps, possibly cake which I did not see but may well have been there & a pulled pork bun for a shocking price of £10.50. There were no other options, and nothing filling enough for non meat eaters. So mine and my family’s ‘lunch’ was some crisps. We ended up leaving shortly after to go to a local pub for lunch. I feel that the lack of service provided was awful and the fact they do not serve actual food to the tables outside or offer more alternative options at the outside van is poor. It has made me rethink returning here.

Food areas very busy at certain times. Good choices and very clean and polite staff. Best portaloos I've seen anywhere. Very clean and tidy. Loads of bins. Only negative thing I'd say is not enough seating for size of car park but you can take own chairs/food and drink. Great place to visit and watch the planes Flat ground but a lot of gravel.

Very good venue to see planes flying and close up.reasonable prices for fling in Tiger Moth or Spitfire and Harrvard. Good day out. Everyone friendly plenty car parking. Good food.

Brilliant air display, all in glorious weather.

Slightly bizarre experience on attempting to have a drink and bite to eat. Can't sit here or there, need to stand here and wait to be seated but staff seem uninterested to assist. Didn't bother in the end and went elsewhere. Father used to fly up here in the 90s and I have fond memories of coming up here. Appreciate things need modernising but I think some attention/effort to the general running of the place with hospitality in mind would be sensible. Decor is appealing. I do think this place has great potential and, in light of prior reviews, hope some attention and effort to providing great customer service can be implemented. Fantastic to see planes like the Spitfire roaring up here. As always, a stunning location and worth a visit.

Fabulous day out, but the food is expensive.

Tough pork rib. Soggy, small, bland, brioche pulled beef. Fries as hard as 6 inch nails. Food is over priced and mediocre. Staff were ok and the overall vibe/decor/concept is decent, but food disappointing. Think basing whole menu around the smoker is limiting the scope a bit.

Just stopped for tea and a coffee, all good . Was greeted at the door and service was pleasant.

Slow service at the Barrow.Ok this was due to a faulty coffee machine. Took all staff to try and resolve whilst the queue got longer. Might of been better to serve customers who didn’t want a hot drink

It's a real shame they have not managed to get the balance right at the restaurant, we have been a few times and unfortunately, been disappointed with the very limited menu and overpriced food. On their soft launch, I paid about £30 for 3 breakfast rolls and a few coffees and there were 10 employees standing around. Shame to hear the brewery is closing though. Hopefully they can improve the menu and prices!

The atmosphere was good with the big windows to see the planes. Unfortunately as all hot drinks come out of a machine we could not get a non dairy hot chocolate or latte. The drinks were good but were watery and milk powder. We didn't have any service we just went up to the bar to order drinks.

The business does not take cash and that's all we had as we are international visitors. Disappointing and I am making enquiries about whether this is legal.

Flew in today after an absence of a year. Tried to order a coffee and shortbread (from a plate on the counter) and was told I had to order 'at the ipad' in a different place. There is one ipad and three ladies not interested in running it. Eventually placed my order and got my coffee and said I'd pick up my shortbread from the other place. "Oh no, it has to be plated and brought here and that will take five minutes" "OK" says I, "I'll go and sit at my table" "Oh you can't do that. We wouldn't know where to find you" Three minutes later, my shortbread is 'plated' from a counter 5 metres away and delivered. £6.30. Mr. Ritchie, you may make good movies but you sure don't know how to run a café/restaurant. I'll continue to fly to Compton Abbas to meet fellow aviators but I doubt if I'll bother with the caff again. The shortbread was very nice and the coffee was good - service was abominable.

Just met with a friend for coffee as we only meet once a year and was just rudely told by what i am guessing was the manageress that our table had been reserved for someone else for lunch and that we would need to leave and that an hour and a quarter was ample time to have a catch up. When we queered it on paying for a rather expensive 2 coffee's & crossiants etc (was told no cakes as it had been a busy weekend...only to see brand new cakes being put out on the counter at 11am!!!!) we were told by the same person that 'maybe this place is not for you'..😡..so only living 10 minutes down the road i would like to say too Mr Guy Ritchie to make sure his staff and managers are trained to a professional level and to make sure their customer service is on top form, do not belittle your customers....without customers the airfield will not survive. Very upset and angry to be treated this way by a member of your staff, remember our money is just as good as the next persons. Please treat the locals with respect, i shall now become a rare visitor rather than a regular visitor. May i suggest that in future you put a reserved sign on the table if you know its already booked out, that way the waitress would not have shown us to the table in the first place. Shame!!! 😡

Wow where do I start! After visiting the airfield for coffee & cake this morning with a friend I was left utterly shocked by a female 'mature' member of Staff. I have to say I cannot praise the young staff up enough, they were all very polite, couldn't do enough for us, service with a smile and had a laugh with the fact that there were no cake on the menu today, this was at 10.30am but by 11am they had managed to source 3 beautiful looking sponge cakes. We ordered coffee when we arrived at 10.30am, coffee arrived at our table at 10.45am, I must say it was lovely coffee and served with a smile from the young waitress, at 11.30am we decided to order another coffee, order was excepted by another lovely young waitress, 'Said Mature female' arrives at our table with our drinks, she promptly informed us that our table was booked out at 12 noon so we would need to leave in time for her to clean the table, we replied 'ok'. At 11.55am we went to pay 'said Mature Female', I politely said to her maybe it would be a good idea if you put a note on tables that are reserved with the reserved time like other places do. Well honestly this was like red rag to a bull with Mature Female! She told us that we should only be sat at a table for coffee for 1 hour 15 minutes and said that's ample time, when I replied that's not long enough she said....Really! and rolled eyes, she then continued to bang on about it with excuses as to why just over 1 hour is long enough, I asked her at this point 3 times to let us pay before this situation escalates, I said we would like to leave quietly but she took her time sorting our bill out but still going on about it, by this time the queue of people was right back to the door and we found ourselves apologising to them all. I have been visiting the airfield for 40 years but never again, I am absolutely disgusted with this females attitude, rude just doesn't sum it up! No where could we find a sign that said you can only have your table for 1 hour 15 minutes for coffee, when we were shown to our table the waitress never informed us. I'm still reeling now after have a beautiful morning ruin. Congratulations to all the amazing young staff that work in the restaurant, keep being amazing! The icing on the cake as we walked away.... Mature Female said..... Maybe this place is not for you! Infront of the long queue!

Edit: my old review for context is below. 6 years ago this place was perfection. Today the place is always quiet, yet too busy to serve you. Food is bang average, service is terrible... The lady guarding the door seems to make it her mission to find a reason to turn you away. The staff are disinterested and slow (with a couple of exceptions who I feel for). The place has had a great make over but it's not even half the place it used to be. A local gem killed off post the family business leaving. Avoid. This place is great. Good breakfast, great lunch and interesting setting. Waiting staff polite and friendly even when very busy.

Great cafe. Very busy in summer. Sadly since I wrote this review the cafe has undergone a "makeover" into a brewery tap combined with a short menu of expensive high calorie fast food and lots of staff fussing over you, while taking ages to serve you. Won't be visiting again.

This used to be a great place to meet friends and I have led many classic motorcycle ride outs here for a bite to eat and an interesting view. My wife and myself decided to visit yesterday and were saddened to see it has been “monetised”. A huge new revenue generating machine has replaced the quirky little café on the edge of the little air strip. The menu was hugely limited and if you have an allergy to vinegar there is pretty much nowt on the menu. We were hungry so decided that the pulled beef in a bun with fries was the best bet. I explained my intolerance to vinegar and asked if the pickled stuff could be substituted for some non-vinegar soaked alternative. We got the distinct feeling that we were just too much trouble. In the end we were charged four pounds for three quarters of a mini gem lettuce in an enamelled tin bowl and made to wait extra time for being a nuisance and the ‘kitchen’ staff seemed not to want to part with the expensive lettuce, despite the pounds paid. My wife was half way through her meal before mine was released as ordered. We were sitting outside and despite paying north of forty pounds for effectively burger and chips with a half pint of alcohol free beer we had to wait and provide our own waiter service. The fries were dry and the meat devoid of flavour. All in all a disappointment.

A friend and I called in for a pint, to find the place crowded with diners. Somewhat abrupt service from staff when they found we only wanted a drink. This is a restaurant, not a bar nowadays - we were made to feel unwelcome, so promptly left.

We didn't eat today but will go back for food. Fabulous place on a sunny day to sit and watch the planes with a pint in hand!

Excellent location for all the family we stopped for a coffee to watch any planes come in but it was very overcast and will keep going.

Went into the taproom/inside restaurant, however left without ordering after a while. Not only was ordering utter chaos, with the staff contradicting each other on how to order, but also the head staff member was very rude and impatient. Not a welcoming place, which is a real shame, as the airfield is nice, and I generally like Gritichie brewing products, so I had reasonably high expectations on our visit here. There needs to be some serious questions raised about some of the staff members suitability to work in hospitality, and some training for the others.

2nd visit to Compton Abbas Airfield (CAA) since Guy Ritchie revamped the venue. Sadly, it remains 'oh so disappointing'; we left the airfield to enjoy our own garden. There we read the very entertaining & extremely accurate bad reviews about CAA. I agreed with all the 10 or so reviews. Very restricted & relatively expensive food menu. No 'proper' coffee etc as only a machine. Appalling ' personal' welcome service who ignore or get rid of customers & certainly not welcoming All such a pity, when a lot of money has been spent on the fabric & themed look of the venue. Don't feel we wish to return except for the views & planes! We are sorry that we certainly won't be recommending your venue for its welcome, service, or food until something is changed dramatically.

It was a lovely afternoon in the sunshine watching the planes taking off and landing 👌.

First time at the airfield. It's great for chilling outside and watching the flight line. However, the service in the restaurant/ bar was terrible. My Son and I were parched after a drive from Bristol. And the "Waiter" made us feel as welcome as a fart in a spacesuit!! He didn't even let us get near the bar because " it was too busy " which it wasn't. So we took our custom to the burger van. Where they were very nice and accommodating.

Visited the Smoke House today. Very little choice of food, over priced. The attitude of the staff is "you don't matter and we don't care"

Interesting restaurant/café. First time we have been there since Ritchie took over and it was an interesting visit. It was a lovely warm day so we looked forward to eating outside in the sun and watching the aircraft and listening to the sky larks. The restaurant has gone all posh and now has a desk that you report to before sitting down. The woman at it showed us a menu and explained that items on the menu could not be eaten on the tables outside the restaurant 'because they were short of staff'. After some bargaining she agreed that we could order coffee and cake at the bar and eat outside. The woman at the bar took our order but said we would have to wait around the bar whilst the coffee was made and the cake cut and plated. Fortunately, a younger, more customer-focused waitress took pity on us and offered to bring our food out when ready. The cake was very good and the aircraft did their 'circuits and bumps'. So that was good. Unfortunately we could not enjoy the skylarks because the café had outdoor loudspeakers broadcasting rubbish pop music. So providing you understand the quirks and don't mind them then you should enjoy your visit. The indoor restaurant appeared to be fully booked so quite a few people seem to enjoy the experience.

Went in for a coffee but they only have a push button machine with powdered milk! The person behind the bar didn't seem to register that most people might actually prefer decent coffee in this day and age. It may save time and reduce staff costs, but will likely lead to reduced footfall. It's a shame, because the place looks great, and has been refurbished to a high standard, which makes the coffee decision even more baffling.

What a huge disappointment, went for lunch today after hearing about the new Smokehouse. Between the 2 couples who visited, we had a number of conversations with the restaurant prior to our visit as we were aware they only reopened on Thursday. At no point did they explain the limited menu and the fact that the smoker was not yet up and running as expected. The menu basically had Pulled beef in a bun, Nachos and Mac & Cheese. All of which were underwhelming, extremely small portions and overpriced. We explained that we had a number of conversations before our visit and were not told how limited the menu was but were told by the waitress that it wont really be up and running until next weekend. As we had travelled a distance we decided to stay and have lunch but it was a big mistake. When we provided feedback on the small portions the response was both arrogant and rude from one Waiter who "appeared" to be more senior. We asked about the slaw that was meant to accompany the pulled beef and were told that it was underneath the meat and we could use our cutlery to look for it if we wanted to. On leaving we tried to give our feedback to the lady on the front desk who was busy dealing with other teething problems and were advised to speak to the same waiter who had been so rude earlier so we decided it wasn't worth speaking to him again given our earlier interaction and we left hungry and dissatisfied. I understand there can be teething problems with any new restaurant but setting expectations with your customers could go a long way towards alleviating this and it wouldn't have taken much to put a note on the website explaining that it was an extremely limited menu which didn't really feature the smoker. While the food itself was poor, our experience with this waiter was so bad - would most definitely not go back.

Totally baffling. I asked for a cappuccino with soy milk. But was told they only had a push button machine that uses powdered milk so they could do an Americano and add milk after. Given that the place has had an impressive makeover which must have costs 10s of thousands (or more) my response was “it’s strange for such a fancy place to have such poor coffee.” To which the lady serving said, politely: “we can’t please everybody and we need to serve people quickly”. I didn’t say it but how do most other bars and pubs manage? These days the most basic places have a good coffee machine where they can heat any kind of milk. Maybe Mr Ritchie doesn’t pay for adequate staffing because with enough people you can achieve anything. So as if you want a place for a coffee and cake in the summer it's not the place to go. Shame as the decor is great. But i'd rather the more basic version back

Just coffee and cake which were both delicious. Staff outstanding.

Closed but did not find out until we arrived as stated open when entering address on satnav. However reading recent reviews looks like we were lucky to avoid rude and poor service. Won't be coming back when open.

Amazing - as a pilot a must go Airfield in the UK

Currently closed to the public until the end of April 2024

We had such a lovely experience today at Compton Abbas airfield, followed by the tour of the Gritchie brewery! We were running VERY late due to traffic but Linda and her team couldn't have been any more accommodating! The chefs kept the kitchen open for us and we had the best burger with a pint of Gritchie Winter Stout! We can't wait to bring our family back for some of the air festivals/shows during the summer and will most definatley be recommending to all our friends and family! Such a lovely afternoon, thanks again for all your help and assistance with us arriving later than planned, Linda you were a star 🌟!

What a shame, awful service! I've been coming to Compton Abbas airfield since I was a boy. I had the day off today so made a special 1 hour trip to visit, I walked in and stood by the "wait here to be seated" sign while 2 members of staff just looked at me. I eventually decided I'd walk over to the bar instead, another 2 members of staff continued to talk about the dishwasher rather than greet me. Eventually got served, ordered a delicious pint of Gritchie and a sausage roll and found a table, no one advised on where I could and couldn't sit. Found a table near the window so I could see any potential planes ( the place was empty) and after a few minutes a very rude lady approached and asked if "she could help me?" Nothing else, I said no thank you, and she just stood there and made me feel very uncomfortable. I asked if I was sat in a reserved table or something and she said I wasn't part of the party coming for lunch, I asked if I should move and she said well you're sat here now as if it was a massive inconvenience she had to put a new napkin down when I leave. Said I had 5 minutes before I had to leave. Fantastic, a 1 hour drive to visit and I'm told to leave within 5 minutes after spending £11 on 1 drink and a sausage roll. Preferred it much more before the refurb, won't be coming back or organising car meets here any longer.

Very warm if a little fussy welcome from the lady at the front desk as we arrive. Bar staff didn’t want to be there and was reflected in the service. Could be so great but poorly executed.

Another lovely visit yesterday, splendid burger and so well looked after by delightful Michaela Thank you!

Horrendous service. Arrived on a sunny Sunday afternoon (28/01) at around 2.15. Opening times for this day was 10-4. It wasn’t busy, a few tables empty, yet the sign outside stated “fully booked”, 4 members of staff “working” but only 1 serving. None of them seemed to care about the growing queue and carried on with their conversations or sweeping the floor. Shortly after, they began stacking chairs and benches on the table. At just before 3, we purchased more drinks and were told “i’ll let you off this time, we are closing the bar”. Further to this, they continued to sweep the floor, bang chairs and benches loudly on to the tables. Commented directly to us that we were “die hards” for still being present at 3:20 as the only other people there were just leaving. We left at 3:30 as it couldn’t have been more clear what an inconvenience we were despite the opening hours clearly shown as until 4pm. The staff were clearly in a hurry to get rid of customers & clock off as soon as possible. The service was appalling and is ruining the reputation of this lovely location. Extremely disappointing as we live and work within 5 miles of the airfield & would prefer to visit often/recommend to friends. Unfortunately, this is a place to avoid!!

Just had lunch at the cafè, wow fairly priced and tasted Devine. Service attentive friendly, surroundings great. Go there again.10 out of 10. Well revisited about a year latter. Oh, how it's changed. Food, well, if I'd have gone earlier, maybe it would be a different review. The service was um, um, well. As for the price. Well I suppose someone has to pay for the makeover. Still great atmosphere and surroundings.

I’ve never been made to feel less welcome! Ten of us arrived on our bikes (cycling club). We were damp because of the drizzle and running late due to a flooded road detour. I had called the day before and checked that we could arrive for coffee and cakes. I was assured this would be fine. When we arrived, shortly before midday, we were told we could only have a takeout coffee and had to sit outside in the drizzle (in December!). This, despite the fact that the place was less than 1/4 full at the time. It’s a big place and there were well over 40 empty seats. By 12.30 we’d all had our coffees and set off on our ride. The place was still pretty empty. I understand that reserved lunch bookings must have priority but it churlish not to allow a group to have a quick coffee and cake. We knew we’d have been out of the way in time for the lunchtime rush. We won’t return.

I didn't rate the food because I didn't eat. I gave a 2 star rating, because of the card only policy, I nearly didn't may my purchase because of that. Whilst cash is legal, I shouldn't be dictated to where I spend my cash, selling out to the finance houses and corporations telling me where and how I spend my money. No matter how nice the setting and the beer I bought might be delicious ( review on that will come later) I won't be back in a hurry. Enjoy backing a cashless society.

We visited in September to see the last Weekend with the Spitfires. The food and drinks were tasty and not overpriced! Amazing experience to see the Spitfires flying over our heads. Also, the airfield itself has it's own unique atmosphere and it's really well maintained. We will certainly return again!

A massive improvement over the last few visits...this time the staff had their act together...it was really good.

We visited for the last Spitfire fly in with friends. Very hectic but staff were making a great job of helping people park. We had fortunately booked for lunch and were lucky enough to be allocated a window table. How wonderful to look out and be able to see what was happening. We were a mixed table of vegetarian and meat eaters. Our waiting staff, Linda, identified the specials and talked through the options. Drinks came quickly, lunch a bit longer but so busy!! Well worth the wait, beautifully presented and so delicious. Outside, the heritage vehicles and some people in costume made this a fantastic visit.

This is a spot I’ve been occasionally dropping into since their last Spifire experience event. It’s a beautiful spot, has nice, simple menus that taste superb, rotate regularly. Now supplemented by a pizza oven right behind the counter. Despite in being invariably busy, the friendly staff never have a problem fitting us in, and are always gracious and attentive. It’s become my goto pit stop whenever I pass through the area.

The staff member who greeted us should reflect seriously on her approach. Of course, she won’t because if she hasn’t learnt by now then she’s unlikely to. If you enjoy being ticked off and made to feel a nuisance then go ahead and book.

If I could give zero stars I would. Absolutely diabolical front of house service. Rude, obstructive and deliberately difficult. We will never return.

We were greeted abruptly and rudely, the service was ridiculously slow with absolutely no organisation and all the staff seemed rude. We were basically told we couldn't have any food other than coffee and cake despite it being lunchtime, and when we found out that we needed to go up to the counter to order coffee and cake we were initially ignored, and when we were able to attract the attention of one of the serving staff, we were told I have got all these other drinks to make and they didn't want to take our order. Another member of staff eventually took our order, gave us our cakes, and when we asked about the coffees we had ordered we were again told we have got all of these other ones to make when we were only trying to find out whether they would be delivering it to the table. We won;t be going back. The owner needs to sort this all out!

Nice. The food and drinks menus looks decent but not attempted today. Great views.

Visited for one of the Spitfire weekends. Relaxed atmosphere with great view of planes taking off/landing. Nice beers and food too

I live 2 miles away but I'd sooner drive 10 miles than go back. The head chef took offence when asked about gluten free options (my daughter is coeliac). In addition, not a good atmosphere due to one member of staff who I assume is the same woman referred to in other reviews. It's clear who it is once you get there.