Martinstown, also known as Winterborne St Martin, is about five miles from Dorchester. While it got its name during the Middle Ages, it is thought likely that settlement in the area pre-dates Roman times. Winner of 'Best Kept Large Village' in 2007 & 2010 and known for its daffodil-lined main street in spring, Martinstown is definitely worth a visit.
Local landmarks
Nearby is Maiden Castle hill fort, one of the best known Iron Age sites. The walk to the fort is excellent, while some excacavation finds are displayed at the Dorset County Museum in Dorchester. Also just a decent ramble away is the Hardy Monument celebrating Sir Thomas Hardy, who sailed with Nelson.
A bit of history
The pub was previously a girls' school, built in 1848, and converted to the village Inn in 1865 when the beer came from the Brewery House opposite. In its earlier years the pub was particularly popular with farmers washing their sheep in the washing pool just around the corner. The washing pool can still be found just up the lane next to the pub, though not often by sheep these days, but is used for our Annual Duck Race. Thanks to 'The Book of Martinstown' by Margaret Hearing.
The Coat of Arms mystery
When John and Jackie took over the Brewers Arms the coat of arms was already with the pub, though relatively new. However, nobody seems to know its origin, nor that of the banana lady at the top of the coat of arms. If you have any information about this "heraldic shield" please contact us and tell us what you know!
Dogs are VERY welcome...
Well-behaved dogs are encouraged to join their owners in the bar and garden.
Folk Music - every third Tuesday...
James Findlay, Jerry Bird and other local talent playing traditional music. From 8pm, free entry, third Tuesday of every month.
Quiz Night - most Wednesdays
Starts at 8.30pm. Fun and lively, prizes and chips included.
Ramblers and Cyclists...
The pub is located in the beautiful rolling hills of South Dorset, near the Jurassic Coast. A number of popular walks wend their way near the pub, while cyclists find us an ideal spot to take a break.
Outside at the Brewers Arms
There is plenty of car parking space and a sunny pub garden at the rear, where you can hear the Winterbourne stream running past.
The large grass extension to the car park includes the kitchen garden, which supplies the restaurant with seasonal produce and a collection of rescue chickens and ducks.
The area is also used by Car and Motorbike Clubs for displaying their vehicles on.
Surrounding area
The pub has always been popular with ramblers, cyclists and lovers of the English countryside, given its location in the rolling hills of south Dorset. Numerous beautiful walks and pretty bridleways crisscross the village of Martinstown, and the coast is little more than a 10 minute drive.
CLICK HERE for a 'taster' of the many local sights & attractions in the area.
Some Helpful Links
Dorset Walks
Some More Dorset Walks
Martinstown News
James Findlay's myspace page
Dog Friendly Britain