Name: The Anvil, Blandford Forum
Address: Salisbury Road, Pimperne,, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8UQ
Price range: US$83+
Rating: 8.4

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The Anvil Bed & Breakfast Blandford Forum Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Salisbury Road, Pimperne,, Blandford Forum, DT11 8UQ

Near the North Dorset Trailway

Great

8.4

9.0

/10

4.0

4.3

3-star thatched country pub in Pimperne, Dorset

Amenities

The Anvil Inn offers eight en-suite guest rooms, each designed for comfort and relaxation. Guests can enjoy a range of local craft gins, handpicked wines, and famous Blandford Hall ales at the bar. The inn also provides outdoor dining in the newly refurbished pub garden during the summer months.

Dining

Dining at The Anvil Inn includes a diverse menu of Chef Karl Bashford's modern British pub food, highlighting local produce. The Forge, a sister eatery, specializes in wood-fired pizzas and is an engaging spot for alfresco dining. Traditional Sunday roasts are a popular choice among guests.

Location

Situated in Pimperne, the hotel serves as a gateway to explore North Dorset's attractions, including the famous Jurassic Coast. The Georgian town of Blandford is a short drive, featuring shops and museums. Nearby Kingston Lacy, a country mansion managed by the National Trust, provides scenic walks and historical interest.

Entertainment

The Anvil Inn hosts a Quiz Night, with a small entry fee that includes a pizza offer for guests. A range of local events and activities nearby ensure that guests can enjoy both cultural and leisure experiences. Families can engage in nature trails and walks along local paths.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The Anvil Inn welcomes families, providing a cozy atmosphere and hearty meals that appeal to all ages. The hotel offers engaging menu options for children, including pizzas and pub classics. Nearby attractions like Monkey World and the Tank Museum provide family-centric outings.

Highlights

Location: Gateway to Jurassic Coast

Rooms: Eight en-suite guest rooms

Dining: Wood-fired pizzas & traditional roasts

Family-Friendly: Engaging menu options for children

Must-do experiences

Stroll through Blandford's Georgian Market for local crafts.
Try a Dorset Blue Vinny cheese at the Royal Oak cheese shop.
Visit the Blandford Forum Museum for fascinating local history.
Take a scenic walk along the River Stour at Blandford Mill.
Explore the delightful gardens at the National Trust's Stourhead.

Select your room type

The Anvil offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Single Room
2 persons
11 sq. feet
1 Single bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Twin Room
2 persons
17 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details
Double Room
2 persons
17 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details

Show all rooms

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Anvil offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.5/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Fireplace
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Wind surfing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Tennis court
Billiard tables
Darts

Services

Housekeeping

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area

Children

Cots
Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Garden area

Room features

Heating
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Anvil Inn, a warm and inviting dining experience awaits with its blend of traditional British hospitality and local flavors. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere complemented by views of an open kitchen and the tantalizing aroma of wood-fired pizza. Mealtime here promises satisfaction across breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Restaurant #1
British and European with Pizza
Ambiance
Family-friendly with a traditional feel and alfresco dining options overlooking a bustling open kitchen.
Key Offerings
Indulge in wood-fired pizzas, hearty pub food, and a variety of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Perfect for leisurely breakfasts or a relaxed dinner with snacks and starters.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast served from 7:00 to 9:30 AM (Mon-Fri) and 8:00 to 10:00 AM (Weekends); lunch and dinner available throughout the day.

The Anvil Location

Salisbury Road, Pimperne,, Blandford Forum, DT11 8UQ

Explore Blandford Forum

Local Highlights

Pimperne Long Barrow

20 minutes' walk

Neolithic burial site providing insight into ancient history, located just a short walk away from the hotel.

Blandford Forum Town Museum

40 minutes' drive

Museum showcasing local history and culture through interactive exhibits; a great family-friendly outing.

Great Dorset Steam Fair

10 minutes' drive

Annual event featuring classic steam engines, fairground rides, and live entertainment; a must-visit for all ages.

Church Of St Peter

4 minutes' walk

Historic church known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, perfect for a brief cultural visit.

Hiking at Pimperne Maze

25 minutes' walk

Scenic walking paths offering picturesque views, suitable for hikers and nature lovers alike.

Golf at Ashley Wood Golf Club

10 minutes' drive

Challenging 18-hole course set in beautiful surroundings, ideal for both seasoned golfers and newcomers.

Outdoor Concert Stage

25 minutes' walk

Open-air venue hosting live music events and community performances, perfect for a lively evening out.

Relaxation at Edie-Mae's

45 minutes' drive

A lovely café offering calming settings and delightful light bites, ideal for a relaxing afternoon.

The Farquharson Arms

20 minutes' drive

Traditional pub with a cozy atmosphere, serving classic British dishes and local ales; reservations recommended.

Badgers

45 minutes' drive

Charming eatery popular for its farm-to-table ingredients and quintessentially British menu; great for families.

The Italian Kitchen

10 minutes' drive

Quaint Italian restaurant with a warm ambiance, celebrated for fresh pasta and authentic pizzas; gluten-free options available.

The Olive Tree

10 minutes' drive

Welcoming restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine with stylish décor and a vibrant atmosphere; popular for its vegetarian options.

Blandford Constitutional Club

40 minutes' drive

Community club offering live music and social gatherings; a great spot for enjoying local culture.

Live Jazz Nights at the Crown Hotel

10 minutes' drive

Vibrant atmosphere featuring local and touring jazz musicians; perfect for a fun night out with friends.

Movies at The Blandford Forum Cinema

40 minutes' drive

Local cinema showing blockbuster films; an enjoyable evening choice for families and couples.

The Pump House

10 minutes' drive

Intimate venue hosting various performances, from comedy to theater; ideal for cultural enthusiasts of all ages.

Getting around

City Centre
Blandford Forum 6 min · 2.3 mi
Airports
Bournemouth (BOH) 51 min · 20.9 mi
Southampton (SOU) 105 min · 43.3 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:00

Check-out

until 10 am

Guest Parking

No parking available.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

The hotel The Anvil serves a full breakfast for free.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Anvil from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 401 verified reviews

8.5 /10

Great

88 %

Recommend

Breakfast

8.6/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Comfort

8.7/10

Facilities

8.5/10

Free WiFi

7.5/10

Location

8.8/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.9/10

Staff

9.3/10

Value for money

8.6/10

Dave from United States

Single

Double Room

2 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 15, 2026

8.7/10

Solid Stay at a Charming Inn

comfortable bed helpful staff excellent breakfast

The room had a comfortable bed and fresh towels. I also found the evening meal very nice. I had an excellent breakfast before departing.

The carpets in the corridor had a slightly stale smell.

Dining

9/10

The menu included delicious game pie as a special. I asked for more gravy. It was that good. Breakfast had a good selection setting me up for the day.

Location

8/10

The building is historic with narrow, low doorways. It provided an interesting exploration of the building. The location is ideal for visiting local attractions.

Service

9/10

Staff were happy, helpful and friendly. Anna was an amazing host .

0 Helpful

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Isaac from United Kingdom

Couple

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 12, 2026

9.5/10

Nice stay and food

easy parking friendly staff

Location was wonderful. Parking was convenient. Food was delicious. The staff was friendly. They were really helpful. The beer and cider selection impressed me. I had a very good experience here.

Service

10/10

Staff members were excellent, providing excellent service. They were very polite. They were helpful in every possible way. Their support really enhanced my stay. I noted their dedication.

Rooms

9/10

The room was clean and of a decent size. I found the bed comfortable. Breakfast options included both cooked items and cereals. There was also yoghurt and fresh fruit. I enjoyed the comfort.

0 Helpful

Isaac from Israel

Couple

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 30, 2025

6/10

inconvenient towel rack staff shortage

My room, described as a Double Room, felt quite small for two occupants. The bathroom design was awkward, I found the placement of the towel rack inconvenient. It was far from the shower and difficult to reach while wet. Breakfast service lacked efficiency, tables needed clearing promptly, and there were delays. I did observe a shortage of staff during peak hours, this affected the overall dining experience.

0 Helpful

Oscar from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 27, 2025

8.7/10

pleasant experience

airy room delicious food

I found the check-in process quick and easy. the room was nice and airy. i really liked the choice for dinner and drinks. The food was delicious and the staff were lovely.

Rooms

8/10

the double room had comfortable beds and was very clean. shampoo was provided! but shower gel was not. sound insulation is needed.

Location

9/10

the hotel is in a peaceful area, and i saw walking trails nearby. bus routes to the town centre are easily accessible. plenty of indoor and outdoor seating is available.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast offered several choices and the food was fresh. i pre-ordered the night before. the dining area was set out well with assigned table numbers matching orders. I appreciate that!

0 Helpful

Sophia from United Kingdom

Single

double room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 17, 2025

6/10

generally adequate stay

clean room comfortable bed lovely towel breakfast delay unfriendly staff

the room was very clean, i must say. the bed was comfortable. lovely towels were also provided. the staff seemed cute.

we booked for 8am. our breakfast came closer to 8.30am. this delay was not helpful because we needed to leave.

0 Helpful

christina from united kingdom

Couple

double room

1 night in October 2025

Reviewed: December 01, 2025

9.0/10

excellent breakfast and comfortable room

friendly staff nice breakfast comfortable room

the staff was friendly at all times. the double room was a nice size. i found good choices at breakfast with everything cooked to order. the room had everything i needed for a comfortable overnight stay.

Facilities

9/10

the hotel offers parking, very convenient. i noticed the premises were well-kept, with attention to detail in the communal areas. the hotel is easy to find from the main road, providing good accessibility.

Service

9/10

the staff were very professional and helpful . they were quick with check-in. they provided assistance with directions to local attractions i wanted to visit .

Location

9/10

This location provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area. the hotel is a short drive from the city centre. nearby are several shops and restaurants. I saw plenty of options for dining and shopping.

0 Helpful

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