The Drovers Inn in East Dorset

Excellent welcome from land lady Margaret A very talented lady as the decor inside the pub proves. Staff polite and helpful . Very friendly place locals happy to share their enthusiasm for their rejuvenated community Pub. Another local shared how good the food is and from what we saw all looked very tasty with thoughtful presentation. We will be back to eat with friends to support this unique place . No longer called The Drovers now the Cockerel new name new vision new approach

We had a great dinner here on Thursday. Interesting food, with some unusual dishes;good atmosphere and lovely hosts. Highly recommend

What can I say, we went on the off chance for lunch, when we arrived the landlady told us that they were still finalising the menu, we waited 20 minutes and she never came back to us, never offered us a drink. Other customers came in after us and she offered them a drink as soon as they entered. So we left without eating or drinking

We all had a fabulous Sunday Lunch!!! Great food, great service and lovely ambiance!!! 2nd time here and will definitely go back!!! Big shout out to Patrick the amazing Chef, and amazing servers!!!!

Reading reviews of this place brought an old adage to mind, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder". I can see why The Drovers Inn is so polarizing. It boils down to your expectations and your personal preferences. The Inn/Pub has been in business since 1705, so it is quite a historical relic. The interior is quite quirky, with some rather eccentric decorations, but we LOVED it! The pub is very rustic, but we found the food and service to be outstanding. We enjoyed some "toasties" (toasted sandwiches) with a local ale. Highly recommended!

This used to be a lovely village pub, since then it has been let go, a very non-welcoming landlord. There are very much nicer pubs in the area, try The Horton Inn or The Old Inn.!

We visited the drovers Inn last week whilst visiting friends in Gussage All Saints. My partner and I had a couple of drinks, and although the chef wasn’t in that evening, they still supplied us with a limited menu. I chose the fish pie and my husband had the lasagna. Both had salad and garlic bread on the side. I must say the fish pie was absolutely delicious and I thoroughly enjoyed it my husband is a lasagne was equally enjoyable. To top it all off. It was a lovely sunny day and we ate in the garden. I would definitely recommend the drovers Inn and will be returning soon.

I work as an NHS Nurse in the community and myself and my colleague were seeing a patient locally. We asked politely to please use their toilet and the bar woman refused unless we bought something. We’re on shift and we’re both desperate for the loo. I have NEVER had this happen to me before. We’re both shocked and saddened and disgusted with her behaviour!

We've just had a single night at the Drover's Inn and we paid £90 for it. The room was not en-suite in the traditional sense but our room had its own bathroom along the landing. My wife said that she would feel uncomfortable using it in the night if other guests were there but on this occasion, no one else was staying. The room was clean and in good decoration and the bathroom was modern and well maintained. The bed was comfortable and the bedding was clean. The room was advertised with breakfast included and it was, but it was a cold croissant, pot-noodle type porridge, two single serving cereals, yoghurt, juice and milk, just 250 ml of milk between the two of us. The milk, juice and yoghurt were kept cool in a tiny fridge about the size of a shoe box. This sat on a wicker chest of three drawers placed in the wardrobe, so you couldn't hang clothes up. There was no cooked breakfast offered so presumably, it was not available. From our experience of travelling a lot, this wasn't a £90 room, even considering that New Forest accommodation has a premium charge. By far the worst though was that it was the Saturday night of Halloween, but we couldn't avoid that. The rooms it transpired were over the bar area and there was live music planned. This started early in the evening and continued until 10-30pm. It was so loud that the floor vibrated and it was barely possible to hear the TV. After the live music stopped, a disco, or recorded music was played loudly until midnight, and by the time the final people had left, and the staff had cleared up, it was about one in the morning before we could sleep. We were tired after our trip so, with little sleep, we were exhausted in the morning. Now, I realise that pubs are struggling, and I can understand the need to maximise calendar events to boost funds, but I think that the responsible landlord should also consider their paying guests, and not offer the rooms for hire when such events are planned. If someone wanted to attend the event and stop over, it's for them to arrange with the landlord. So, a miserable experience in a nice, but overpriced room in my view.

This pub was a family favourite and we were delighted when the villages saved it from becoming a residential property. But we’ve had a number of unfortunate experiences lately when visiting so we’ve now decided to write this review. The food is often disappointing. The once much cared for garden is now an absolute mess which is really sad. But the final straw is that one is often met by rudeness or indifference by the landlady and landlord depending on the mood they are in. At our last visit our guests were taken aback by their inhospitable behaviour. We have a number of friends who simply don’t visit this pub any more. It used to be a pleasure but no longer.

Came for a quiz night with curry. We were served sweet and sour pork even though we questioned it the server insisted that was curry. Bonus though, it came with prawn crackers!! Portion size was miniscule and possibly a microwave meal. Tasted ok, but not worth the money charged. We're so hungry we tried to order more food but that was all was available!! Absolutely abysmal . Desserts were £6.50 each to add insult to injury!!!!! Quiz was pretty bad too.....

My partner and I popped in for a lunch time drink. Not been here for a while. Sat in outside. What's happened to the lovely garden. Used to be kept lovely. Now its overgrown with no colour to it at all. Inside the bar has lost its cosy appearance and warm friendly staff. Person behind the bar was not amused I had cash so reluctantly used my card. Partner said his ale wasnt nice. Come on. Bring back a bit of life to this once lovely pub!

Arrived for an early summer’s evening meal and found we were the only customers. Although we had booked, I didn’t bother to give our name as it didnt seem important when there was no else there , but the landlady then realised this and literally told me to my face that I had a bad attitude as the kitchen staff needed to know ! The table number in the empty garden was completely faded, but despite my husband pointing me out from where she could see me at the bar she told him she couldn’t be expected to know the numbers and challenged him with “how do you know we haven’t got 20 tables booked”! She seemed to need to impress on us how busy they had been - apparently with 3 coach loads of visitors that afternoon - presumably so we’d be suitably grateful to be eating there. We weren’t! My food was average /poor, but it was her aggressive and confrontational attitude that will remain in my mind and ensure we won’t ever go again.

Went to this pub some years ago when the landlady/lord had just taken over (literally their first week I believe). The landlady was extremely rude and dismissive. I put it down to new pub management nerves but, returning again today we received exactly the same ill mannered attitude from the landlady. We were a group of nine who had booked in advance for Sunday lunch. Upon ordering a pint of beer and cider and presenting a ten pound note I received a disgusting glare. Asking if cash was okay I was told “well normally we prefer not to have cash, but I have change today so I’ll take it”. Beer arrived after a few minutes but when I returned for my cider it was nowhere to be seen and landlady was serving others within our party. I asked for my pint and was told only a half pint had been ordered by someone else. When I said I had paid for two pints landlady’s husband piped up and said he’d only just been told the order and was sorting it. I eventually got pint of cider that somehow had a head of lager on it! Decided as in company (and of negative response I’d surely get) not to complain. One of our party was discussing the merits of drinking red rather than white wine for her health…the landlady’s response was “well it’s all a load of b..l…ks.”. Choice for Sunday lunch was…wait for it…roast beef dinner £15 (or £10 child’s portion), veggie roast (that landlady complained to another member of our party takes her theee days to prepare!) or a scotch egg! No choice of meats or any other dishes. Gravy came out with a wait then for food. Everyone got their meal bar me, then landlady came out with last large lunch. I explained I was waiting for small portion (in hindsight I should have just taken the larger one). She stated “well you can’t be, there are nine of you and I’ve taken all the orders”. Muttering she would have to go and check her list she subsequently returned with my correct meal. No apologies or explanation. Food tasted good but shockingly high prices for two small potatoes, one small piece of beef, small amount of carrots and cabbage and a tiny piece of parsnip. The larger meals for £15 only had one potato more, extra meat, but still just one piece of parsnip! Later another party arrived for lunch. But….Not one local drinker from the village was in the pub …sort of indicates what locals must think of this extremely rude woman. As others have commented …she is clearly in the wrong profession. The landlord? (gent behind the bar) was attempting to do his best under the circumstances of having to work alongside a person who thinks it’s acceptable to talk to her customers in such an abhorrent manner Live fairly close but will never return and will tell all how terrible this woman’s social skills are.

Not our first choice for Sunday lunch but fortunately for us the others were fully booked. Worth the drive off the main road. Excellent food, hospitality and friendly locals.

Very welcoming pub.Food excellent - met with friends to have a relaxing lunch.Staff very efficient.Excellent experience.

Stopped for lunch on a country walk. The simple menu was well cooked. We enjoyed the view from the garden. We found the proprietors very friendly.

Very disappointing visit recently. Food - very limited lunchtime menu, small portions, expensive for what you get….and some dishes served on plastic plates. Garden in need of urgent attention, grass had not been mown for weeks, bramble hedges intruding over outside tables, dead plants in pots on tables and in hanging baskets. For a community owned pub, the community needs to have a rethink and take action about how it is managed and looked after. Unlikely to return.

I’m not sure where to begin tbh We were welcomed by a not so friendly land lady Shown to our room , which I must add is not easy accessible for everyone You have to go down a long uneven ramp to get to your room Our first impression was not good Our bedding was like it been rolled in and left We were not even sure if they had been slept in previous I have never ever seen any duvet and pillow cases like it For £100 a night I expect my bed to be clean and ironed Our room was 100% not cleaned properly Our bathroom had not been wiped over in weeks The shower screen, taps were not clean The fact the body wash half used and not very hygienic I suggest you get small disposable bottles Do to Covid viruses Breakfast was included but cereal , warn carton milk , apple juice , yogurt all sat in a basket Unfortunately you get a green alien safety night light near your bed that shines all night We did go to bar , that was some what chaotic The food did not look good so we just had the very basics However the cute little table in room with teapots on was nice A few games in room Quiet location

After a chilly morning walk we decided to stop for lunch if there was space outside at the Drovers Inn. Warm welcome ordered food and drink at the table with a gentleman, drinks appeared quickly and after a short wait a hot mealWith Covid restrictions still in place we felt safe and the staff were friendly and doing an excellent job Impossible to rate some of the questions below as only outside meals were allowed to be served. We will come back when inside is open

During these difficult (Covid) times, supporting local restaurants/pubs is I think important. Booking ahead, ordering your food... seems normal these days... Greeted upon arrival by the landlady, so nice to see someone making the best of the current status we are all facing. All the precautions were In place, distancing, routes in and out.... we felt very safe and secure. The food came out in good time and tasted really good.. this is certainly a place to visit. They are trying so hard to serve their visitors, provide a safe environment, with just a minimum of staff and in our view they are doing very well. Thanks for a good meal.

We stopped off here today for a light lunch on our bike ride. We both had a panini off of the “rock up” menu and they were both delicious. We then had coffee and cakes which were also very nice. Super organised regarding Covid and very friendly, efficient service. We will definitely be back to try their full menu soon.

Went with friends last Friday for OAP. Special. It was lovely, Sat outside in the sun. Landlady explained everything in detail. Drinks were brought promptly. Our meals were served , and it was all very delicious. Pubs are trying hard to please. And some people should just go out of their way to criticise.give the Drovers a visit. It's well worth it.

Had to wait at a table for 10 minutes before the uptight lady took a name and phone number, she got my name wrong to start, then asked what we wanted to drink, how do I know what drinks they have duh, no menus anyway so I asked what drinks were available and she looked at me like I was stupid, how about putting laminate menus on the table, it’s not rocket science, so then she ran off to get some drinks quick and I asked to repeat, she muttered give me strength, then she walked off and telling us we can’t smoke or vape outside and had to go to another area, fair enough but the other area was not accessible for all the bikes stacked up there, I only pay with cash, she just said when you’ve finished u can pay by card but didn’t mention if they took card or not, don’t just presume, try asking it helps, especially when we had finished I said I pay with cash and she was stand offish and said you could of told me before u ordered, it’s not upto me to tell u, it’s yours, that’s not my problem. Nice place, crap management and considering I’d driven 25 miles just to go to that specific place I was less than impressed, don’t forget your not the only establishment around, and I’d have thought that for a place that’s out in the sticks and crying out for business in the current circumstances u would try harder with your customers and not treat them like they stupid, I won’t be coming back and I won’t be recommending your establishment, what a shame.

Used the Drovers for years as a starting point for country walks either up adjoining drive road or nearby Roman road. This was first time since lockdown. Pub arrangements seemed well organised. Service from outside tables was efficient and friendly. Ale was well kept and the light lunch ticked the boxes. Very glad to see them open under very difficult times.

The landlady of the Drovers in our opinion is in the wrong job. It’s not first time she has been unfriendly and abrupt.When we went our friends he made a complaint about his food and the landlady didn’t apologise just got quite defensive and didn’t accept his complaint obviously doesn’t like criticism. The next time we visited as a couple during half term whilst our son was on a school trip. We were seated by the door leading to the toilets which was very annoying as people are constantly walking by your table leaving the door that leads to the toilet open leaving the door to bang every time the pub entrance door opened.We mentioned that we sadly didn’t see the special board until we had finished our meals as it was very low down by the fire and people were constantly stood in front of it warming themselves by the fire totally blocking the view of the specials board. We politely suggested that it would be better displayed higher up as we would have liked to have seen it well she didn’t appreciate the feed back and spoke to us like children.My summary food average, slow service and over priced food, but the main problem was the landlady’s attitude and unfriendly manor she definitely made our experience at eating in the Drovers unpleasant one and we won’t be returning.

We visited here mid July for lunch. This being our first meal out after places were allowed to open up. We’ve been here several times before and were really looking forward to the experience. We had a choice of sitting in a well spaced marquee or just outside the marquee. The pub itself apart from the toilets was not open. Our contact details were not taken and at the time of visiting just the two owners cooking and serving, which didn’t give us much confidence. When our meal arrived we were gobsmacked that it was served on paper plates with wooden cutlery. Drinks in plastic glasses. The meal itself average. This almost stopped us going out elsewhere for a meal, thinking if this was the way forward then forget it. Thankfully we’ve tried elsewhere, restaurants, pubs, cafes etc and haven’t repeated this experience. Everywhere else feeling much safer and far better set up. Sorry Drovers we won’t be returning again for the foreseeable future.

We called in for pint and light lunch today, greeted by landlady/manager who spoke to us like a like a schoolmistress, no we had not booked, yes we only wanted a snack for lunch, choice of pasty, pork pie or panini, chose a panini, served with a roll which costs 25p in most supermarkets with minimal chicken and pesto filling for the grand sum of £5.00, we were also asked if we had cash to pay as the card machine did not always work.The pub has a fairly large inside space, but us and the other couples inside were placed in a section off the main area, The pub had the air of a junk shop with cardboard boxes on the bar, baskets of dead flowers on other tables. The toilets were most strange with both ladies and gents using one toilet each in what was the ladies toilets!! No soap, towels or hand dryer provided just a jar of sanitizer??From a hostelry that was warm friendly and welcoming this has certainly had a change of atmosphere with Covid regulations being interpreted and carried out in an unrealistic patronising way, with the most basic rule being overlooked as no contact details were asked for!!??We certainly will not be returning nor recommending it, from our experience, the pub will be closing its doors again in the not too distant future.

I would NOT RECOMMEND this place to anyone, we were treated very poorly by the owner. Our booking was for three nights. We arrived slightly late for our meal that we had pre-booked as we got stuck in traffic and on arrival we apologised and explained what had happened. The owner scolded us in front of my 4 year old son as well as other customers at the pub being very rude and sarcastic towards us. She continued with the unwelcoming behaviour when we asked her to check us in. When we asked why she was being like this she replied she can do what she likes as she is the owner. We ended up staying the one night this was only due to our 4 year old son who was extremely tiered and checked out the next day. This ruined our holiday and we ended up returning home as the whole experience was very upsetting and humiliating.

A friend and I met up in the village, had a walk using the local bridleways and went to The Drovers for a light snack lunch which is available without pre-booking. Well organised for the covid wary customer including the option to bring one's own cutlery: wooden ones are provided. We had baguettes, one chicken and pesto the other mozzarella and tomato. Warm with generous fillings, they 'went down a treat'. We both chose ice cream to follow. We sat in a well spaced marquee but other options available.Really friendly welcome from the couple who run the inn, efficient service and they were happy to chat.A relaxed, comfortable, satisfying time. Thank-you.

Saved by the community thankfully. We sat outside in the graden on a lovely summers day. A lovely old pub inside as well. Great food, friendly and welcoming, a place to meet, eat and drink as you want.

Met a friend at this pub for Sunday lunch and booked a table in advance.The pub is well signposted and on arrival we found plenty of parking available.Staff are very friendly and the whole ambience of the pub is lovely.We ordered drinks and looked at the menu. We decided on sea bass, roast pork and roast chicken with vegetables.The food came quickly and was very nice. Vegetables came in separate bowls, parsnips, cauliflower cheese and cabbage The roast meals had plenty of potatoes, gravy, Yorkshire pudding and we were offered sauces. I got beef instead of Turkey but it was fine and not worth worrying about asking to change.We enjoyed our food and were about to order coffee when we were asked to move to enable the table to be laid up again for another sitting which we all felt was a bit disappointing.We moved to the bar area and ordered coffee.The bill was £54 and was reasonable for what we had.

We have just visited The Drovers for the first time. Sunday Lunch was very good with plenty of vegetables. Be warned, as this pub is in the countryside the Sunday menu is limited but very good quality food. Desserts, delicious! Staff were very friendly and made you feel most welcomed. I’m looking forward to trying it when we can sit outside and watch the sun go down. Roll on summer.

After a three month absence we returned to the Drovers for lunch with our friends. Our last experience was not good but there is a new chef who has made a big difference. Large portions of week cooked food which was hot. Usual good ambiance and very friendly and attentive staff.

My wife and I visited on the 4th March for lunch on a miserable weather day as one able bodied and one wheelchair user. The pub was extremely quiet at the time we were there, we were greeted with a warm welcome from the staff members on duty. We ordered our drinks and my wife chose a Gin from there vast selection along with the recommended mixer for that particular Gin, I went for the drivers choice of lime and soda. Menus were brought and we were able to choose at our leisure, we both settled on the Drovers burger with Dorset blue vinney cheese served in a brioche bun with salad, coleslaw and fries. The burger was a good quality meat patty which surprised us both mixed with the saltyness of the cheese and sweetness of the bun went down a treat neither of us wasted a morsel. The fries were the skin on variety, again were tasty and crisp on the outside with a fluffy middle and most importantly HOT. Staff were very attentive, we felt welcome by staff and the locals. We will be visiting again.

We visited this pub at the last moment, having decided we wanted aa Sunday Roast. It was pleasantly busy for a country pub and the ambience very good with a nice log fire giving a cosy atmosphere. The service was good with the waitress being attentive but not intrusive. She even informed a table that entered after us that it would be 5-10 minutes before she took their order due to the kitchen just receiving an order of 11.The roast was good, beef rare as I like it and the vegetables plentiful and on teh whole well cooked. If I am being cristical I would have liked the parsnips to be cooked a little more so thath they were crispy, but a minor point in the scheme of thing.We will certainly return.

The menu offers simple but reasonably priced pub food. Tasty with a home cooked quality. I had a chicken pie while my wife chose fish chips. Everything was cooked to perfection. The staff were friendly and made us feel welcome. The food didn’t take long to arrive. My only criticism of the pub was the fact that they didn’t have much of a range of ales or guest ales.

Had a very pleasant lunch with a group of friends after a local walk. The staff were welcoming and friendly and service was speedy. The meals, largely light bites were generous and of a good quality. I would definitely recommend a visit.

Popped in after a walk. Staff courteous and friendly. Simple menu cooked beautifully and so filling! Just what we needed.

Attended a wake at the Drovers. The food was exceptional good and the staff so helpful and friendly.

Had previously loved the Drovers but on this occasion we were really disappointed (just before Christmas). Our waitress was unprofessional, burger bun burnt and burger overcooked and tough. The chips were just like cheap oven chips. Very overpriced especially for the low standard of food. Not having visited since the pub had changed hands we felt it had really gone down hill.

Went for evening meal, place seemed nice enough had been warned that was under new management but thought let’s try it. I’m afraid to say the food is not good, it’s average at best but with above average prices. Please train your staff to serve and not gossip within spitting distance of your customers, not sure that have run a restaurant before based on this experience.

A warm welcome from such lovely staff, the pub is cosy and warm and very friendly.

We like the Drovers and looked forward to returning. It has had its ups and downs and we hoped it was on an ‘up’.

We have visited twice recently- once just 3 of us and then 8 had lunch. This is a community pub and has new folk running the pub. The chef was new too.

What a warm welcome we had when we entered the Drovers Inn. We were given a table for three and our menus. Then we bought our drinks at the bar and chose our food. When our food arrived it was really hot and on hot plate too. It was very well presented and enjoyable.

Having lived local for the last 4 years and had heard mixed reviews about The Drovers so subsequently never had a drink or meal there. I'm so pleased after hearing about a change of landlord and recently a new chief that we had a friends birthday meal there. Very friendly and accomodating for our party of adults and children. Food was lovely. Tasty, fresh and well presented and served. Brilliant. Pleased that the company I work for is having their Christmas meal there. Well done The Drovers team.

As it is a bit of a trek for us to get to Gussage All Saints, we tend to be summer or lunchtime customers. But last weekend we went for a birthday celebration and stayed the night in one of their lovely rooms! Will have to review that under another heading I think!

I visited here with my two young children and in-laws and found this hidden gem. Lovely staff and really cosy pub. We had a fantastic lunch with great children’s food with salad and proper macaroni cheese!

Apparently this place was taken over in February and there were mixed TripAdvisor reviews but am really glad we tried it out. Super friendly welcome we were seated and served straight away. Menu choice was huge and looked delicious. The food was great and definitely good value, we can't wait to go again.

Phoned for a last minute Sunday lunch with friends. The landlady was so friendly even though it was really busy she said if you don’t mind waiting at the bar for a bit we’ll try and squeeze you in . We were greeted as soon as we arrived and shown to our table where we ordered our drinks, nice welcome . We all ordered the roast beef and it was delicious with lots of fresh vegetables and extra gravy . The beers were really well kept , happy husband . Service was really good we were asked twice by the ladies who served us if all was ok , nice because it was a busy Sunday. Thankyou we will be back and Isla our Labrador was made reallly welcome .

Just what an English pub should be with a great choice of food, local beer and a real pub feel to it! The choices on the menu and menu boards made selecting our dinner quite difficult as it all sounded delicious. We tried several different beers and each found a favourite. Real English puds as well!

This is our local and recently taken over by new owners. We visited for lunch on a Saturday and sat in The garden the weather was lovely.

If visiting for a meal take a large appertite ( there is a portion size option). This is a community owned pub and is a real find.

Having avoided this pub after experiences with last two owners for the last 5years, heard it had turned a corner and was recommended. We arrived, walked in, no eye contact with sullen looking bar attendant, she was seeing to two customers in front of us, they went to sit down, we were left standing whilst the lady disappeared into kitchen, no time for a greeting, or will be with you in a minute. When we were attended to, still no warm welcome, just “what do want to drink” complete with sullen and negative demeanour, we asked for a menu, told if you want to eat here you will have 30mins. wait! “we are busy, and have customers in the garden” there were two tables used in the garden and several empty ones in the pub!! Goodness how long to wait when they are really busy. We sat and waited for our order to be taken, at least 15mins. then a group of 4 came in after us, their order was swiftly taken! When I queried this, their order was much more important apparently because they had booked their table, therefore they took priority of service. Never have I heard such rubbish in such an establishment, how on earth you expect to make this pub a going concern, with such rules, and miserable staff behind the bar making us feel we were indeed putting them out is beyond belief. Thank goodness for nearby pubs where you are made to feel welcome, with efficient staff, who greet everyone who enters their door with a smile and greeting despite how busy they maybe.

Very welcoming community owned pub in gorgeous setting, good food and range of beers Well worth the visit to country setting

We were staying locally and when asked where best to eat were recommended to visit this beautiful pub. We arrived around 2pm to a very busy car park and were worried we wouldnt get food as they finished serving at 2.30. However when we walked into pub we were greeted by friendly staff who although had no tables free that they would call us as soon as ine became available. We ordered drinks and they were brought out to us on the tables out the front. Will admit the weather was glorious. A lovely lady cone to us with menus and took our orders in advance and when we were called to a table our food came out very fast. All piping hot and very generous portions. I had fish and chips, im a big eater and this was a struggle to finish but was so delicious i couldnt stop eating. I was able to try a pint of the award winning Cranborne Chase Cider from the place we were staying.

main food was perfect and portion size was very decent, at first service was fast but when we orders dessert things went downhill from there, service was slow and we seemed forgotten about, however i must say we we a walk in table and there were two larger tables that had booked and i understand that they would take priority, dessert was a bit of a let down , had the brownie with vanilla ice cream, the ice cream was excellent.

The change of ownership in March must have led to teething problems. Our Sunday lunch suffered from very slow service, a misinterpretation of our order (we didn’t ask for children’s portions!), cold vegetables, and a very poor peach crumble. The place was packed and clearly something needs reorganising in the kitchen. Apparently they are busy at all times which is good news in a way but I’m afraid, although Mine Host was very apologetic, for the moment this will be off our list of dining options

Lovely meal, 3 had the special, crab salad with salad and fries, one had the burger. Food was delicious, fresh. Staff friendly and helpful. Will definitely return.

I have known this pub for many years and it is a long time since I have eaten there, but with all the good reviews I thought it was time to give it a try. The table was booked for 1PM, but we were a few minutes late and by the time we sat down and ordered our food it was about 1.15. The waitress told us it was a new chef and service was a little slow, so we dispensed with the starters and ordered four main courses. We waited for well over an hour before they arrived. Was it worth the wait? I'm afraid not. Two of us had battered fish with chips, nice portion of fish but tasteless. My friend had scampi which was fine, my wife had vegetarian lasagne, but it lacked the vegetables.

I have known this pub for many years, through its ups and downs, closures and openings. I believe it is now owned by local residents and under new management.

This village owned pud is our go to place for good food and atmosphere so we were a little unsettled when we learned anew landlord and landlady had arrived but we needn't have worried. The place and the food is as good as ever, if not better. This place is great to visit after a nice walk in the local Dorset countryside.

Stopped by for a beer and lunch with friends. This was my first visit since the new management have come in. These guys have done a great job. They have kept the character of the pub whilst still introducing some subtle improvements. As ever the beer choice and quality was superb as was the food for lunch. Well worth a visit.

We had great difficulty in finding somewhere that provided afternoon cream teas

We had a wonderful meal here last night. Super atmosphere and location and such a warm and friendly welcome. They deserve the positive recognition they are getting!

Very friendly local pub. Stumbled across this place and really pleased we did. All the food we had was well cooked, fresh and generous portions. We can personally vouch for the roast and the salad. We also saw The Ploughman’s (which we’ll be trying next time) and burgers all looked great. The staff even accommodated my daughters off menu request (thanks guys). Drinks and food are all reasonably priced and there are even a few garden games for the kids. This pub is defo one of our new Fav’s. We’ll be back soon

Great little pub away from the noises of a busy street. Nice selection of local ales including my favourite 6P Best. Menu a little small but probably because a small pub.

Very good food friendly staff dog friendly as well very good pub indeed I would recommend it to anyone

The pub was so busy the car park was full so we had to park on the lane!

Definitely worth the drive there Excellent Roast Beef. Service very prompt. A very popular pub. You will need to book.

Service and food are very good, nice staff and reasonable prices what more can you want, although they were quite busy we were served quickly.

What a wonderful place. Clean and friendly and the food was Absolutely Fantastic. We had a Ham ploughman’s which was amazing. Ham egg and chips great potion size and very tasty Ham. And Jacket Spud. Oven cooked firstly & great size. All in worth every penny not only all that but supports the local village. As it’s owned by the village.

My husband and I love this little pub and whenever in the area, pop in for a drink and meal. It has just got even better. Under new management / owners the food and service fantastic. The Drovers still keeps its 17th charm. It’s relaxed friendly and first class. We will definitely return more often. it’s also dog friendly and even provides water and plenty of bowls for our four legged friends.

We had a fantastic meal at the Drovers inn. There was plenty to eat and my husband wanted a smaller portion of his main meal so that he had room for his favourite desert, apple pie and custard. It is in a fantastic setting and when we decided to go there someone told us to book as it gets a lot of people in for meals in the evening. The salmon starter was melt in the mouth (which I had) and my husband had advocado. I then had the fish and chips and he had a smaller portion of scampi. We were spoilt for choice as there were plenty of dishes on the menu that we could have chosen. The food was well cooked, hot (except for the salad starters!) and well presented. We would recommend a visit.

Called in for Sunday roast in late afternoon. Ordered three roasts and all of them were excellent. Beef was melt in the mouth , Turkey moist and the vegetable version was an awesome goats cheese and sweet potato pie. Staff friendly, good choice of beers and very good value. The place appears to have had a revamp and there was a steady stream of customers. Will go back in the summer

We have visited twice in the last couple of weeks, once midweek in the evening and today for Sunday lunch. On both occasions the food was excellent in quality and well-priced. My wife will often choose a fish and chip supper when we go out and she thought the plate she had at the Drovers was probably the best she had eaten in years. Since Harvelle & Martin have taken over the running of the Drovers there has been a noticeable improvement in atmosphere and service, both Harvelle & Martin are friendly and approachable. We will be going back to the Drovers Inn in the furure and would highly recommend a visit.

In the last two weeks, I have visited for both a Sunday breakfast and a mid-week evening meal. The food on both occasions was excellent and fairly priced. Good atmosphere and very friendly, welcoming but non-intrusive service from the staff,

We visited for an evening meal a fortnight after Harvelle & Martin took over. Very impressed with our meals. Sensible size portions, good quality and fair price. We had small issue with one meal (more personal preferences than anything else) that Martin resolved very professionally. Will definitely be going back again soon, hopefully they’ll have the big appetite steak back on the menu.

The pub is under new management so we thought that we would give it a go. It was a Thursday lunch time and even though we arrived just after 12.00 it was quite busy, so I would suggest booking. The menu is pretty extensive from bar snacks to full meals, added to which they have specials boards. I had the Tuna which was on the main menu, which made a change from the usual fish offering of just fish and chips. The Tuna was cooked to perfection as were the accompanying vegetables. My husband had the fish and chips which again were very tasty. Both meals were good value.

Popped in with my daughter for coffee and cake.

Great to see an already lovely village pub have new life breathed back into it. We went for Sunday lunch as we’d heard great things about the new owners. We would highly recommend to anyone in the area- Martin and Harvelle they were so welcoming and friendly and the Sunday lunch was delicious and very reasonably priced. Great to see local beers and ciders on offer as well. Looking forward to being able to enjoy a pint in the beer garden this spring.

Went a couple of years back but disappointed by the lacklustre approach of the tenants. Now what a difference a couple of people can make who want to make this failing institution a success. Sunday lunch was perfect, our host was charming, the service was excellent although you could see they had been and were rushed off their feet. Will return one evening if its not booked up. Thanks.

My wife and I are new to the area and are slowly feeling our way around the pubs and restaurant around us. Recently we tested the Drovers Inn, in the beautiful village of Gussage All Saints and have made this a regular drinking pub in the evenings since then. On Thursday evenings you may see the local choir regaling you with their beautiful music.

We went here for Sunday lunch with our two dogs and had a very friendly welcome. I had roast beef and my husband had turkey and both were beautifully cooked - the beef was medium rare and sooo tasty. Really good veg accompaniment too - loved the red cabbage and the cauliflower cheese. We finished with homemade cake which was also lovely. Excellent value meal.

Very welcoming, cosy country pub. Went for early dinner with our 2 year old. We felt very welcome and the new owners couldn’t do more for us. Food was amazing and wine was great too. The view is beautiful from the pub and the pub itself is warm and cosy. Definitely coming back and looking forward to using the south facing beer garden.

Fantastic evening with our family at The Drovers Inn. Games, great food and superb hosts! Really good value for money. Don’t miss out.

Took my husband out for lunch & he suggested The Drovers Inn. Quiet,out of the way location. The food was lovely, the service was excellent & I would definitely go again & would highly recommend a visit.

Popped in to my favorite pub with husband for first time since it has been taken over by new Tenants. Have to say they have got off to a flying start. Really friendly welcome. First class Pub Grub and great beers. This pub is a little goldmine in Dorset, really great walks around the local area and most importantly, they welcome dogs. I am told they are doing really great Breakfast's over the weekend, so we are going up to try one of these very soon!

Warm Welcome from new landlords Martin and Harvelle. Delicious food at a sensible price. Good veggie options too. Local beers well kept. Excellent attentive service . Great to see this well loved pub buzzing again......May it long continue!

Arrived at the newly refurbished Drovers - under Martin and Harvelle. Loved the hooks by the bar for the dog leads, the stables out the back so you can hack over for lunch and the pizza horse box out the front. We were made very welcome - and I had a delicious roast - probably the best I have actually ever had. Usually quantity makes up for the quality - but in this case both were excellent.

Friendly and welcoming family pub totally revitalised under the new ownwrs. We have visited for drinks and for breakfast with our 4 years old daughter. Martin and Harvelle warmly welcomed us and, alongside the cosy interior, created a quintessential country pub atmosphere. Very child friendly with broad food choices (including child’s menu) and the provision of some children's games and books. Has already become a local favourite, and one we will definitely recommend to friends.

I visited the Drovers with a walking group recently and enjoyed an excellent lunch and a well kept pint of the local Cranborne Brewery beer. Good friendly service from the new owners and a comprehensive menu. Good rustic country pub atmosphere.

First visit to the Drovers last night, what a pleasant evening. Very friendly & warm welcome, with fine Beers. I beleave this Pub has a great future, do have a visit.

After years of uncertainty at this pub, we were delighted to be welcomed so warmly today by the new publicans. As locals, to have such a pleasant pub a short walk away is marvellous. The menu suits a local pub and the walkers who will enjoy a break there. Very tasty, well presented food and I understand that Harvelle makes the most amazing cakes,which we are looking forward to trying on our next visit. There is no question that we will visit again very soon.

We visited on a Sunday when the menu offered a range of sandwiches, "small dishes" such as whitebait, soup and smoke salmon fillet, and Sunday roasts. No standard pub grub, though.

Called into this delightful friendly community pub whilst walking with friends this week.Lovely surroundings. The landlady was very niceand chatty. We only had home made soup which was delicious but the menu was very inviting so we will probably return during the year.

Stopped off for what we hoped was a nice cup of hot coffee on a cold day.

Pretty pub but avoid if you can as “mine host” is very unfriendly. Can’t comment on the food as we didn’t stay long enough

My wife and I are new to the area and are slowly feeling our way around the pubs and restaurant around us. Today we tested the Drovers Inn, in the beautiful village of Gussage All Saints.