REVIEW: Family Feast at The Greyhound Inn, Corfe Castle

After a full day of Halloween fun exploring the Purbecks; from spooky trails to the brilliant Swanage Railway Halloween Ghost Train, we couldn’t have chosen a better spot to relax and refuel than The Greyhound Inn in Corfe Castle.

This historic, family-friendly pub sits right in the heart of the village with the dramatic castle ruins as its backdrop, and it’s every bit as charming as it looks.

Cosy, Characterful and Full of Charm

As soon as we stepped inside, the warmth hit us;  both from the roaring fire and the friendly team who greeted us with genuine smiles. The pub was beautifully decorated for Halloween, keeping the seasonal spirit alive in style. What struck us most was how happy and attentive the staff were; you can tell recruitment and training are a real strength here. Every member of the team seemed genuinely invested in creating a great experience for families and visitors alike - at they seemed so happy to be there.

We were seated in the cosy dining area with low, beamed ceilings, rustic stone walls and soft lighting; everything you’d want from a traditional country pub in Dorset after a chilly autumn day. The atmosphere was relaxed, service was quick (a huge plus when dining with children), and the menu offered something for everyone.

Delicious, Hearty Pub Food with Style

My husband went for the Pie of the Day - Steak and Ale: a hand-crimped shortcrust pie filled with tender steak in a rich, malty ale gravy, served with thyme and maple roasted carrots, buttered mash, minted savoy cabbage, petit pois, and a glossy red wine gravy. It was pure comfort food; hearty, flavoursome, and beautifully presented. (There’s even a vegan pie option, which is great to see.)

I chose the Lamb Kifta Skewers, spiced perfectly with cumin, parsley and mint, served with cool cucumber tzatziki, a vibrant pomegranate Greek salad dressed with beetroot, warm toasted pitta and seasoned fries. Every bite was packed with flavour, colourful, generous and full of Mediterranean warmth.

The kids were delighted with their choices too. The cheesy tomato linguine and crispy cod goujons with peas and fries were both perfectly portioned and freshly prepared. Simple, tasty, and exactly what you want from a family-friendly menu.

Sweet Treats and Happy Faces

Desserts didn’t disappoint. The girls shared churros, rolled in cinnamon sugar, drizzled with Nutella and served with vanilla ice cream - an absolute hit! I went for the vegan dark chocolate and orange tart, which was rich and indulgent, with a silky ganache and crisp pastry. My husband’s Dorset apple cake with sultanas, cream and strawberries was classic and comforting.

By the time we left, everyone was full, happy and ready for the journey home;  and sure enough, the kids were asleep before we’d even reached the edge of the village.

The Perfect Pub for Exploring the Purbecks

With free parking right outside, a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and fantastic food served quickly and with a smile, The Greyhound Inn is a must-visit if you’re exploring Corfe Castle, taking a trip on the Swanage Railway, or enjoying a day out in the Purbecks. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to return in every season - for Sunday lunch, a summer cider in the garden, or a cosy winter dinner by the fire.

A perfect ending to a perfect family day out in Dorset.  Visit their website to view their full menu and upcoming schedule of events.