12-06-2025
Dorset pub named as having one of the UK's best beer gardens
The Scott Arms in Kingston was featured in a list from Muddy Stilettos, which named the 50 best from around the nations.
Discussing the reasons for creating the list, the lifestyle publication wrote: "As summer rolls through we all naturally flock to the UK's most sought-after place, the pub. So why not drink in style with gorgeous views?
"Here are our top pub gardens across the counties where you can make the most of the rays."
The full top 50 pub beer gardens with "jaw-dropping views" can be found on the Muddy Stilettos website here.
Why is The Scott Arms among the UK's best beer gardens with a view?
The Scott Arms was highlighted by Muddy Stilettos as having one of the best beer gardens for views, thanks to being able to see Corfe Castle from it.
They wrote: "You can see the ruins of the iconic Corfe Castle from the large garden, with a telescope on hand if you want to zoom in.
"The super laid-back pub serves up the usual pub grub with the added bonus of sizzling BBQ chicken, steak, brisket and prawns from the Shak every Saturday and Sunday from May to October."
On its website, The Scott Arms describes itself as a pub with "history, character, community and atmosphere".
It adds: "A pub with the best view over the majestic Purbeck countryside, taking in the stately Corfe Castle ruins and following the route of the steam railway right down to the Swanage beaches.
"A pub that's as welcoming in the lazy, heat-hazy outdoors of Summer as it is in the fireplace-cosy, mulled warmth of Winter."
In terms of its drinks, it has a variety of locally-brewed and guest ales, alongside "well-respected" cider, an "eclectic wine selection" and a huge range of spirits.
Meanwhile, for food, there is a mixture of "locally-sourced, freshly-cooked, delicious, hearty pub classics".
What do visitors think of The Scott Arms?
The Scott Arms has been mostly well-received by visitors, earning a 4.2/5 score on Google Reviews from 1,516 ratings and a 3.3/5 score on Tripadvisor from 1,268 reviews.
One person wrote: "Lovely food and plenty of it. Lovely atmosphere with friendly staff. Lovely views over Corfe Castle and surrounding areas."
Another said: "A lovely characterful pub, spectacular location on the hillside with views of Corfe Castle from the beer garden and the breakfast room.
"Was expecting a small standard room and was pleasantly surprised when we were shown to our 'room' which consisted of a bedroom, seperate wc and bathroom AND a sitting room with a couch and dining table.
"It was cosy and warm and welcoming- could not have asked for more."
A third shared: "Having been out walking across the Purbeck Hills the Scott Arms was a welcome break.
"We enjoyed a delicious lunch sat near a roaring fire and welcoming staff. The menu was small but hard to choose from as there was such a great choice!
Recommended reading:
"Highly recommend the Scott Eggs (which we shared) along with the cured trout. The pork chop was delicious and beautifully presented with wonderful crackling, mash and a jus to die for. The hake and venison were a huge hit too!
"Lovely to enjoy food that is sourced locally. We'll be back very soon!"
Quite a few people mentioned the beer garden as a plus point, as one commented: "Excellent Sunday roast, good local beers, car parking, and beer garden with fantastic views down to Corfe Castle. Well worth a visit."