Best British Restaurants in Swanage

Price

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Regions

BournemouthPooleSwanageWareham

Areas

BournemouthKimmeridgePooleSwanageWareham

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

15 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Restaurant at Knoll House restaurant

1. The Restaurant at Knoll House

4.3

Awesome(474)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• British • Swanage

Booked 3 times today

With a focus on fine Anglo-French food and a traditionally English atmosphere, our restaurant offers a selection of dishes prepared from the freshest ingredients. The dress code is smart casual, and you can join us for breakfast from 8-9:45am and dinner from 6-8:30pm.

2. Ivy Bournemouth

4.5

Awesome(70)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• British • Bournemouth

Booked 117 times today

Ivy Bournemouth offers an unparalleled breakfast experience that locals and visitors rave about. Nestled in the heart of Bournemouth, this elegant brasserie stands out with its commitment to quality and authenticity in breakfast cuisine. Diners have praised the "absolutely delicious" breakfast offerings and "first-class" service, making every visit a delightful start to the day. The menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring a variety of options that cater to diverse tastes. The stunning decor and welcoming atmosphere add to the charm, creating a luxurious dining haven. Experience breakfast at Ivy Bournemouth, where "nothing is too much for the staff" and every detail is attended to with care.

3. Schpoon & Forx

3.9

Excellent(73)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• British • Bournemouth

Booked 3 times today

Schpoon & Forx in Bournemouth is a culinary gem that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to life with its exceptional cuisine. The restaurant is celebrated for its “excellent food and amazing quality,” making it a must-visit for lovers of authentic Mediterranean dishes. Diners rave about the "delightful surprise" of inventive desserts like the ginger slice with green apple, showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to originality and taste. The lively open kitchen adds to the overall experience, allowing guests to witness the artistry in preparation. With attentive service and a menu that caters to diverse preferences, Schpoon & Forx promises an unforgettable dining experience.

A photo of Dancing Moose Ashley Cross restaurant

4. Dancing Moose Ashley Cross

4.2

Awesome(76)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• British • Poole

Booked 12 times today

Dancing Moose Ashley Cross, nestled in the heart of Poole, is a cocktail bar that epitomizes excellence and authenticity. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and "killer cocktails," this hotspot transforms your evenings with its eclectic beats and expertly crafted drinks. Patrons rave about the "great cocktails," particularly highlighting the Pornstar Martinis and gin and tonics made with premium Fever Tree tonic. The venue's lively ambience, complete with occasional live music, ensures a memorable experience for all ages. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a fun night out, the Dancing Moose promises an unforgettable soiree with top-notch service.

A photo of Clavells Restaurant restaurant

5. Clavells Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(202)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• British • Kimmeridge

Booked 4 times today

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Kimmeridge, Clavells Restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience with its authentic, high-quality Unspecified cuisine that has diners raving. The delightful array of seasonal favorites and classic dishes are prepared with precision and flair, making it a “hidden gem” worth exploring. Guests frequently praise the “excellent home-cooked food,” highlighting a menu that caters to diverse tastes, including gluten-free and vegan options. The charming setting, coupled with “courteous and friendly” service, creates a welcoming atmosphere that ensures each visit is memorable. Clavells truly stands out as a culinary oasis on the Jurassic Coast.

6. Quay Inn, Wareham

4.5

Awesome(63)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• British • Wareham

Booked 10 times today

The Quay Inn is set right on the the quay at Wareham overlooking the river Frome, and has been welcoming patrons since it was built in 1747.In addition to a fantastic array of high-quality local ales, beers, and refreshments, we offer mouth-watering food menus featuring the unique Black Rock grill, along with a variety of traditional snacks and meals. Enjoy top-notch entertainment throughout the year and a warm welcome every day of the week.

A photo of Frederick's Restaurant restaurant

7. Frederick's Restaurant

3.5

Very Good(2)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• British • Bournemouth

With all that fresh sea air, you've likely worked up a hearty appetite. At Frederick's Restaurant, tuck into classic British dishes that use fresh, seasonal ingredients, from healthy salads to juicy steaks. Overlooking the seafront, it's a scenic spot to dine, whether you're holidaying in Bournemouth with your partner or entire family. We cater for junior palates with a variety of fun creations, from ice-cream in a cone to candy floss and cola cubes. A delicious buffet breakfast is served every morning. Choose from continental and cooked items, as well as vegetarian options and dishes cooked to order such as omelettes, poached eggs, porridge and kippers.

A photo of The Italian Kitchen restaurant

8. The Italian Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(92)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• British • Wareham

Booked 13 times today

The Italian Kitchen in Wareham offers a delightful Pizzeria experience that combines the best of Italian and British culinary traditions. Situated on the charming Wareham Quay, this restaurant is renowned for its “absolutely wonderful” pizzas, which are freshly crafted using the finest seasonal produce and authentic Mediterranean ingredients. Customers rave about the “delicious and well-presented” dishes, highlighting the quality and care put into every meal. The attentive staff and “friendly service” further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for pizza aficionados. With its contemporary atmosphere and stunning views of the Purbeck Hills, The Italian Kitchen promises a memorable culinary journey.

A photo of Côte Brasserie - Bournemouth restaurant

9. Côte Brasserie - Bournemouth

4.7

Exceptional(85)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• British • Bournemouth

Booked 36 times today

Côte Brasserie - Bournemouth is a shining gem in the world of Bistro cuisine, delighting patrons with its authentic French flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Paris. Diners rave about the "fantastic food and excellent service," with standout dishes like the "superb tarte tatin" and "amazing garlic bread" leaving an indelible mark. The restaurant's commitment to using the highest quality ingredients ensures every dish is freshly cooked to perfection. Beyond the plate, the warm and attentive staff enhance the experience, creating a "lovely evening" for every guest. Côte Brasserie in Bournemouth is the perfect spot for a "delicious" French escape.

A photo of The Overcliff Pub at The Suncliff Hotel restaurant

10. The Overcliff Pub at The Suncliff Hotel

3.2

Good(7)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• British • Bournemouth

The Overcliff Pub has been designed to offer locals and visitors to Bournemouth a traditional English pub with stunning sea views, proper British pub food and cool beverages in a laid-back, friendly environment. The large dining room conservatory enjoys panoramic views from Hengistbury Head, across the bay to Old Harry Rocks, the perfect backdrop for sipping on a pint of real ale whilst tucking into a delicious pie. All welcome!

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Susan
Hampshire •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We were very warmly welcomed. We were comfortable, the service was first class, the food delicious, the waiter and everyone were professional and naturally allowed us to chat and to enjoy every moment at The Ivy, Winchester! Thank you, Susan.
More info
The Ivy Winchester BrasseriePrice: Expensive• Contemporary British• Winchester
•
4.6
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dorset •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Decor is lovely Location good Service good Food superb
More info
Ivy BournemouthPrice: Moderate• British• Bournemouth
•
4.5
E
Ellen
Glasgow/Lanarkshire •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Really attentive and helpful staff, good music choice, food was outstanding!
More info
Dancing Moose Ashley CrossPrice: Expensive• British• Poole
•
4.2
M
Mary
Dorset •8 reviews
5.0
Dined on 3 Mar 2025
Superb food and service as always-all the team are always very friendly and welcoming
More info
The Old InnPrice: Expensive• British• Wimborne
•
4.7
H
Harry
Dorset •1 review
5.0
Dined on 14 Feb 2025
Great service from the start to finish. Food was perfect and good value for money.
More info
Schpoon & ForxPrice: Very Expensive• British• Bournemouth
•
3.9

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