Explore our charming 16th-century coaching inn





Set in the heart of the Dorset countryside
Within Thomas Hardy’s enchanting village of Evershot.
Visit siteThe Acorn Inn, in the picturesque village of Evershot in the heart of the Dorset countryside, is an award-winning 16th-century property and is part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection. With original historical character and charm, complete with old beams, oak panelling and flagstone floors, The Acorn Inn offers ten individually designed en-suite guest rooms, exemplary personal service and award-winning dining. Providing a 'home away from home', guests return time and again.
"The Acorn boasts a fascinating history. Built as a coaching inn in the 16th century, it was originally called the Kings Arms and brewed its own ales with water drawn from the source of the river Frome. When The Acorn was built, there were six pubs in the village; now, we are the only one remaining. Thomas Hardy’s ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’ is set in the area and The Acorn is the pub mentioned as ‘The Sow and Acorn’.
We began managing The Acorn in 2017 and we are extremely proud of our longstanding team members, who are so passionate about what they do. Our team have helped us earn some fantastic awards, such as Dorset Pub of the Year and Chef of the Year. The hotel works as one department and guests are always impressed at how well we get along.
Sustainability is always one of our top priorities. We grow our own herbs and vegetables, are involved in numerous recycling projects, volunteer for beach clean-ups and collect any unused water to nourish our garden.
The Acorn is all about local produce and guests love our pub classics such as local beer battered fish and chips with a lovely local pint of ale. Our area is also an attraction in itself, with beautiful green rolling hills packed with stunning walks and impressive beauty spots.
We look forward to welcoming you to our village pub very soon."
- Natalie and Richard Legg, General Managers