Business Details
Your Historic Pub Stay in Studland, Dorset
The Bankes Arms Inn in Studland, Dorset, has been a cornerstone of hospitality since 1549, offering visitors a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort. As a family-run establishment, we combine centuries of tradition with contemporary amenities, providing guests with an authentic English countryside experience. Our expertise lies in curating memorable stays through our 10 en-suite B & B rooms, each offering panoramic sea or countryside views, complemented by freshly prepared breakfasts using locally sourced ingredients. The pub's reputation for excellence extends to its award-winning Isle of Purbeck Brewery, which supplies five core beers and seasonal ales directly to our bar, alongside an extensive selection of wines, spirits, and ciders. Our culinary team showcases Dorset's agricultural bounty through seasonally changing menus featuring fresh seafood, organic meats, and game, all prepared with a commitment to quality and sustainability.The Bankes Arms' strategic location at the gateway to the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site positions us as an authoritative choice for visitors exploring the region's natural and historical attractions. We maintain trustworthiness through consistent service standards, transparent operations, and a dedication to preserving our 16th-century building's character while meeting modern expectations. Our team's deep local knowledge enhances guests' experiences through tailored recommendations for coastal walks, nearby attractions like Old Harry Rocks, and regional events. This combination of heritage, expertise, and customer-centric approach has established us as a trusted destination for both leisure and business travellers seeking genuine Dorset hospitality.
Services
B&B accommodation
Pub food
Isle of Purbeck Brewery
Event hosting
Local tours
Highlights and features
- Centuries of hospitality experience in a historic 16th-century building
- Award-winning ales brewed on-site at Isle of Purbeck Brewery
- B & B rooms with uninterrupted sea or countryside views
- Freshly prepared meals using locally sourced Dorset ingredients
- Strategic location at the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site
What people say
Beautiful coastal views
Excellent breakfast options
Friendly staff
Well-maintained historic building
Superb local ales
Services
B & B accommodation
Our ten comfortable B & B rooms offer either sea views across Studland Bay or countryside vistas of the Purbeck hills. Eight rooms feature ensuite facilities with walk-in showers or baths, while two share private bathrooms. All rooms include flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee making facilities, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour access. Guests enjoy breakfast in our dedicated dining room with options ranging from full English to vegetarian dishes.
Pub food
We serve freshly prepared, locally sourced meals daily using ingredients from Dorset suppliers. Our seasonally changing menu features seafood, game, and organic meats, with vegetarian and children's options available. Summer brings al fresco dining in our sea-view garden, while winter offers hearty casseroles by open fires. No reservations required, though larger groups are advised to notify us in advance.
Isle of Purbeck Brewery
Located adjacent to the pub, our award-winning brewery produces five core beers and seasonal ales available on draught and in bottles. Visitors can sample our Best Bitter, Studland Bay Wrecked, Solar Power, Fossil Fuel, and Purbeck IPA alongside guest ales from Dorset and the West Country. The brewery also supplies to pubs, restaurants, and retailers nationally.
Event hosting
Our extensive gardens and pub spaces accommodate events from casual gatherings to special celebrations. The pub's historic setting with open fires and candle-lit tables creates an atmospheric winter venue, while summer allows use of our sea-view garden with temporary bar facilities. We welcome well-behaved dogs throughout the premises.
Local tours
Positioned at the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, we provide access to coastal walks including routes to Old Harry Rocks and Agglestone Rock. Our team offers expert local knowledge about nearby attractions like Corfe Castle, Durdle Door, and Lulworth Cove. The pub serves as an ideal base for exploring Dorset's natural and historical landmarks.
Questions
Does The Bankes Arms offer sea-view rooms?
Yes, our front-facing rooms provide uninterrupted sea views across Studland Bay towards Poole, Bournemouth, and the Isle of Wight.
Can I visit the Isle of Purbeck Brewery?
The brewery is located next to the pub and our staff can provide information about its brewing process and beer range.
Are dogs allowed at The Bankes Arms?
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in all pub areas and gardens throughout the year.
What food service hours should I be aware of?
Summer food service runs daily 12:00-21:00; winter hours vary between 12:00-21:00 weekends and 12:00-15:00 & 18:00-21:00 weekdays.
Is parking available at the pub?
A large National Trust car park with guest passes is located directly opposite the pub entrance.
