On Wimborne Road West, between Ferndown and Wimborne Minster, stands one of Dorset’s most recognised pubs: The Old Thatch. Known for its thatched roof, timber beams, and rustic charm, the pub is a reminder of how important historic inns have been to the local community.
A Seventeenth-Century Legacy
The Old Thatch began as part of the Uddens Estate in the 17th century, originally serving as a gatehouse. Its position opposite Stapehill Abbey placed it at the heart of rural Dorset life. Today, it remains one of the most photographed Ferndown pubs, retaining features such as leaded lattice windows, open fireplaces, and cosy corners.
Revival in Modern Times
In 2018, the pub was taken over by landlord Nick Pestana. In 2021, he partnered with Andy Lennox, founder of the Fired Up Collective and known across Dorset for restaurants such as Zim Braai in Bournemouth. Together they developed The Old Thatch into a gastro pub that blends heritage with a modern food offering.
The menu celebrates Dorset food and drink, pairing hearty pub dishes with more refined plates. Visitors will find Ringwood Brewery ales, Badger Beers from Hall & Woodhouse, and guest craft lines from breweries like Eight Arch Brewing Co. in Wimborne and Vibrant Forest Brewery in the New Forest. Wine lovers are equally well served, with a curated list of English and international bottles.
Country Store and Community Hub
Unlike many traditional pubs, The Old Thatch includes a country store and bakery, selling artisan bread, cakes, local meats, cheeses, and dairy products. This has made the venue more than just a pub: it is also a meeting place for the community, serving Ferndown residents alongside visitors passing through on the Castleman Trailway.
Festivals and Family Focus
Beyond food and drink, The Old Thatch has built a reputation for its family-friendly ethos. Bear Island Woodland, the pub’s outdoor play space, doubles as an event venue. Here the pub has hosted live music, children’s activities, and the annual Thatchfest summer festival—an event that now rivals other Dorset pub festivals such as the Great Dorset Beer Festival and Ringwood Brewery’s Beer & Cider Fest.
Part of Ferndown’s Pub Landscape
The Old Thatch is just one of several notable pubs in Ferndown. Others include The Pear at Parley, The White Heather, and The Horns Inn, each with its own story and character. Together they showcase the variety of Dorset’s pub culture, from traditional inns to modern gastropubs.
