The Fox Inn in North Dorset

Typically the food at The Fox Inn is very good, as is the ambience (it is the epitome of an English country pub, set beside a stream with a lovely outdoor seating area, as well as an atmospheric interior with smoky fireplaces, interesting art and good corners, as well as spacious places, in which to sit and sup, and it is dog-friendly). Usually the service is pleasant - attentive without being obtrusive. Unfortunately, at our latest visit (for a late and leisurely Sunday lunch) the service let the place down - people were very affable and polite but clearly too busy; we waited nearly an hour for our first courses, one of which was forgotten until we asked for it; the mains of excellent sirloin with Yorkshire pudding arrived tepid but became cold by the time the remaining person at our table's food was brought and, we waited a further 15 minutes for the vegetables for the table. We had a nice red wine which was clumsily poured over the table instead of into glasses. The horseradish was superb (nose tingling in its intensity). Given the cost (what I would call "London prices"), which is higher than many fine local hostelries, the service and speed should be exemplary. Nice to see Mark Hix visiting his establishment and talking with diners. He is a superb chef and has excellent local suppliers. I believe that the rooms are good and it is a wonderful location from which to explore Dorset, Somerset and the Jurassic Coast. We will be going back, but will try to choose times when the pub is less busy.

Brilliant service and food. Atmosphere was lovely and the restaurant was beautifully decorated and clearly thought about. Staff were outstanding and extremely helpful. We had one of the best meals we have had in a long time and we felt right at home. Also it's worth mentioning that they are dog friendly which is always a huge bonus nowadays. Thank you, we will all be coming back again. Lauren & Rupert

We came here as a group of friends celebrating a birthday on a Sunday lunch service. The pub was lovely we sat out in the conservatory which is decorated beautifully. The food was delicious and one of the best roasts I’ve had in a very long time. The service was fantastic! We aren’t the easiest group of people when out and can be a handful sometimes and the staff were amazing and went out of their way to make our visit great. Would highly recommend to anyone!

Fabulous atmosphere, very relaxed. The front of house was very knowledgeable about the sources of the ingredients and the food itself was honest and absolutely delicious. Mark Hix himself came over to say Hello. A fabulous Valentines lunch with my Husband ❤

Absolutely fabulous food atmosphere and venue great Sunday lunch location. Thank you Mark Hix

Fantastic food and incredible staff so warm and helpful. Absolutely loved it

We love Hix oyster and fish house in Lyme Regis so we were keen to give The Fox a try too. The food was delicious and reasonably priced, great drinks list too, desserts were incredible - the food was hearty and great quality. The Inn itself is beautiful and they've really made the most of the space - it is quite sprawling with lots of attention to detail so it is cosy and homely and in keeping with an Inn style but far from scruffy. I don't think this is easy to achieve but Hix makes it feel like it is. Something we've noticed about Mark Hix places is that he wants guests to feel welcome and comfortable right away - the quality is unmatched but it's not pretentious at all. It is all really well balanced. This really shows in the staff as well - they are super friendly, chatty and attentive. Always a great atmosphere. Really impressed and will definitely go back soon. Well worth the narrow and winding cross country drive to get there!

Loved this place, such a wonderful friendly atmosphere. The staff are amazing and really make it, they just cannot do enough for you. Food is out of this world and the wine is simply fantastic. 🍷😁 I would highly recommend the expresso martinis. 🍸

Great looking place but not so nice beer, had a pint of Tribute.When I questioned its flat metallic taste felt quite a fool as in no polite way told "it's a real ale". I'm a real ale drinker but had not tried that particular one. I won't make that mistake again. It's left me with a very unpleasant need to not venture far from my bathroom for the foreseeable few hours.Wife asked for a large white wine. I struggle to imagine what a small or even regular glass would have looked like, not much more than a splash I would imagine. Certainly didn't deserve a price tag of £7 that's the wine only !!!Not a friendly feel from the gentlemen behind the bar. Has certainly put us off any future visits.

Food was delicious! Finger lickin good!Local drinks was a bonus!Staff was super nice and helpful, they was very accommodating.The location of this pub was amazing, I'll definitely be back.