Must-Try Sunday Roasts in and Around Poole
As the crisp air of autumn settles in and winter approaches, there’s nothing quite like a hearty Sunday roast to warm you up after a scenic stroll. Poole, Dorset, is filled with inviting pubs and restaurants, each offering unique takes on this classic British tradition. Below, we’ve gathered some of the best spots in and around Poole where you can enjoy a perfectly crafted Sunday roast.
Guildhall Tavern, Poole Old Town
Set in the historic heart of Poole Old Town, the Guildhall Tavern has been a cherished dining destination since the 1960s. Recently revamped by a local owner, the Guildhall Tavern now has its own chic cocktail lounge, whilst preserving its iconic charm. Renowned for its award-winning seafood, the Tavern also impresses with its Sunday roast options, including Roast Sirloin of West Country Beef, Slow Roasted Pork Belly with Crackling and Bramley Apple Sauce, and Roasted Free Range Chicken Supreme — all available gluten-free on request.
Poole Old Town is moments from Poole Quay, one of the South Coast’s oldest ports with a rich history. Visitors can explore the Quay’s stories of pirates and enjoy seasonal events, from the lively New Year Bath Race to the festive arrival of Father Christmas by boat. Poole is also home to Sunseeker, known for its world-famous luxury yachts.
Click here to view Guildhall Tavern’s Sunday menu.
The Bear, Wareham
In the picturesque town of Wareham, The Bear serves up a delicious Sunday roast with all the trimmings, including seasonal vegetables, a Yorkshire pudding, and crispy roast potatoes. Known for its cosy, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, The Bear has quickly become a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike since its extensive renovation in 2019.
Whilst in Wareham, ensure you take some time to wander along the ancient Saxon Walls that encircle this historic town or catch a classic film at The Rex, Dorset’s oldest operating cinema. Complete with a bar and locally sourced ice creams, The Rex offers an authentically nostalgic movie experience.
Click here to view The Bear’s Sunday menu.
The World’s End, Blandford Forum
This historic gem is one of Dorset’s most beloved pubs, boasting nearly 600 years of impressive history. Rumoured to be the oldest pub in the county, it carries a rich legacy filled with tales of smugglers, hidden contraband, and the “highwayman’s bolthole,” once a hiding place for outlaws on the run.
Today, the pub charms visitors with its iconic thatched roof—restored after a fire nearly 30 years ago—and its picturesque garden and country meadow. The kitchen serves up traditional favourites, with a standout Sunday menu featuring Aged Roast Beef, a hearty Vegetarian Roast, and the Roast of the Day. Just a short walk away lies Charborough Park, a stunning 19th-century landscape filled with formal gardens and a striking folly tower, perfect for a post-lunch stroll.
Click here to view The World’s End Sunday menu.
South Deep, Poole
Located in Parkstone Bay Marina within Poole Harbour, South Deep boasts beautiful waterfront views and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Relaunched in 2019, this spot has become a go-to for Sunday roasts, offering excellent food and top-notch service. With glowing reviews from locals and visitors alike, South Deep is especially popular on Sundays, so booking ahead is recommended!
After your meal, enjoy a peaceful walk at Whitecliff Park. This scenic spot is perfect for an autumn dog walk, with waterfront paths that lead straight to Poole Quay. Families will also love the playground, complete with sand pits, diggers, climbing frames and much more.
Click here to view South Deep’s menus.
The Dancing Moose, Ashley Cross
Situated on the corner of Station Road in Ashley Cross, The Dancing Moose is known for serving up an incredible Sunday Roast, with a twist. Experience ‘Sunday Sessions’ with live music between 4pm – 6pm every week from talented local artists, ready to make your night unforgettable! Take your pick from Roast Beef, the meat of the week, Best of Both, or Homemade Nut Roast.
Enjoy a cosy, laid-back vibe with roasts served from 12pm each Sunday, and better yet, happy hour every day from 5pm – 7pm! Guests have described their Sunday Roast as the ‘best roast ever’, and said they would definitely return in the future!
Click here to view The Dancing Moose Sunday menu.
Looking for a place to stay during the festive period?
At Quay Holidays, we have over 120 stunning properties for you to choose from in Poole and the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking for a cosy one-bedroom apartment or a spacious five-bedroom house for the whole family, we’ve got you covered! Below we have highlighted a selection of our properties that are currently available during December 2024. If you would like to explore our whole range, visit our Under the Mistletoe Collection on the Quay Holidays website, highlighting properties with availability remaining during December.
Peregrine – Poole
Part of the prestigious Dolphin Quays development, Peregrine is a spacious one-bedroom apartment, found on the fourth floor. Relax in the stunning double-aspect living area, with partial views over Sandbanks and Poole Harbour. Right on your doorstep, you can discover a range of delicious restaurants and traditional English pubs, with St. Tropez Lounge and Guildhall Tavern only a short stroll away. The development benefits from 24-hour concierge service in the communal area and secure on-site parking – one space provided with the property.
Click here to check availability for Peregrine and secure your getaway!
Anchor Cottage – Poole
At Anchor Cottage, you are only a stone’s throw from the stunning quayside. This charming two-bedroom home is a 130-year-old Fisherman’s Cottage, originally home to fishermen and lifeboat men with the old Lifeboat Station still just around the corner. Perfect for keen historians looking for a cosy harbourside escape, this characterful property can sleep up to four guests and benefits from two parking spaces. The open plan living and dining area is spacious and welcoming, with a feature fireplace making it the perfect place for a winter retreat.
Click here to check availability for Anchor Cottage and secure your getaway!
Beachcliff – Bournemouth
Discover this impressive three-bedroom apartment, part of a 2020 purpose-built block of six, located right on the seafront. With impressive sea views from both balconies, the living room and two of the bedrooms, this property is the perfect escape for seaside lovers! Southbourne Beach can be accessed via the Fisherman’s Walk zigzag. This is only a two-minute walk down but can also be accessed via a lift if needed. You are also a short walk to Southbourne town centre, with its vast range of delicious restaurants, bars and shops. Benefit from an allocated parking space within the development’s private parking area, and additional street parking where available.
Click here to check availability for Beachcliff and secure your getaway!
Haven’t found the home for you just yet?
Not to worry! To make your holiday search as simple and stress-free as possible, we have created our Collections pages. Here, we have selected specific holiday homes to suit your needs, whether you’re planning to bring your four-legged friend along, or would like an escape close to the sea – we’ve got the perfect holiday home for you!
