The Sun Inn Dorchester Motorhome Stopover Information

About the Pub 🍺

The Sun Inn is a charming 17th-century family-owned free house located in Lower Burton, Dorchester, postcode DT2 7RZ. It is run by Shelley and her team, emphasizing genuine hospitality with simple yet great home-cooked hearty pub food made from locally sourced produce where possible. The pub has a welcoming, cosy atmosphere with roaring log fires in winter and beautiful flower-surrounded outdoor spaces in warmer months. It offers a traditional pub experience with a good selection of real ales, wines, bubbles, and non-alcoholic beverages.

Opening Times ⏰

• Monday to Sunday: 11:00am – 10:30pm (pub opening hours)
• Food service: Monday to Friday 12:00pm – 8:30pm
• Saturday & Sunday: 12:00pm – 8:30pm
• Carvery service, renowned here, available Monday to Friday 12:00pm – 2:30pm and 6:00pm – 8:30pm
• Saturday & Sunday carvery all day from 12:00pm to 8:30pm

Food 🍽️

The Sun Inn is famous for its carvery served seven days a week, featuring a great selection of vegetables, crispy roast potatoes, and tender meat. Beyond the carvery, a full menu offering traditional pub fare and some daily specials is available, made with a focus on local ingredients. The pub also offers a Drive Thru Carvery during carvery service times (call to check availability). The pub is family-friendly and has a children's play area.

Facilities 🏡

• Two large well-lit car parks
• Disabled access
• Front courtyard and rear patio garden with a children’s play area
• Cosy indoor seating with open log fires in colder weather

Dog Friendly 🐕

Dogs are allowed inside the pub only outside meal times and are welcome in outdoor areas.

Beer Garden 🌳

The Sun Inn has a pleasant front courtyard and rear garden/patio areas perfect for enjoying drinks and meals outside when the weather permits.

Reviews ⭐

The Sun Inn enjoys strong praise, rated around 4.3 to 4.4 out of 5 from over 3000 reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Restaurant Guru. Reviewers highlight excellent food, especially the carvery, friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and great value. Many recommend it as one of the best carveries in the Dorchester area with quick service and a great selection of ales along with a welcoming family environment.

Interesting Things to Do Nearby (Within 5 Miles) 📍

The Keep Military Museum 🏰

Situated just under a mile from The Sun Inn, this fascinating museum captures Dorset's military history. Exhibits include historic weapons, uniforms, and memorabilia spanning several centuries. It's a great visit for history enthusiasts and family alike.

Dorchester Roman Town House 🏺

Explore the impressive remains of a Roman townhouse in the heart of Dorchester. The site features wall mosaics and artifacts, offering visitors insight into life during Roman Britain with engaging displays and guided tours available.

Poundbury Village 🏘️

This innovative urban extension of Dorchester is about 2 miles away. Designed with sustainable and traditional architecture, Poundbury has shops, cafes, and community spaces reflecting Prince Charles’s vision for harmonious living and craftsmanship.

Tesco Nature Reserve 🌿

A tranquil green space located around 3 miles from the pub, perfect for walking and nature watching. It’s peaceful, with wildflowers, birdlife, and easy trails, offering a quiet escape from town life.

Max Gate – Thomas Hardy’s Home 📚

Just under 5 miles away, this National Trust property was the family home of the famous novelist Thomas Hardy. Visitors can tour the house and gardens, gaining a glimpse into his life and Victorian-era literature.