Lore of the Sky

Perched within the historic Compton Abbas Airfield in Dorset, Lore of the Sky is a destination smokehouse restaurant from Guy Ritchie’s team, combining aviation heritage with authentic Texas-style barbecue.

Set amongst the rolling hills of the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, it has quickly become one of the most talked-about barbecue restaurants in Dorset.

Less than an hour from the Jurassic Coast, Lore of the Sky offers panoramic countryside views, vintage Spitfire flyovers, and a dining experience centred around fire, smoke, and bold flavour.

The restaurant’s menu celebrates traditional low-and-slow barbecue cooking, featuring dishes such as six-hour smoked pork belly, flat iron steaks, mixed grills, black and blue burgers, and sweet and spicy jackfruit buns. Much of the menu is prepared using the legendary J&R Oyler Smoker, the first of its kind in the UK and only the second in Europe, delivering deep smoky flavour and perfectly cooked meats.

Inspired by the great smokehouses of Texas and rooted in Dorset’s local produce, every dish reflects a commitment to quality ingredients, smokehouse craftsmanship, and big, satisfying flavours.

Alongside the food, Lore of the Sky serves a carefully selected range of Dorset and Wiltshire craft beers, ales, and ciders from breweries including Sixpenny, Eight Arch, and Aircyde a West Country Gold Cider. Guests can also try Altitude, the restaurant’s locally supplied signature lager, created with a bespoke aviation-inspired label celebrating the airfield’s heritage.

Blending countryside charm with authentic barbecue traditions, Lore of the Sky has established itself as a must-visit smokehouse and barbecue restaurant in Dorset.

Lore of the Sky Menus

• Monday to Saturday Menu
• Sunday Menu
• Drinks Menu
• Allergens Menu

Book your table at Lore of the Sky and experience Dorset’s boldest barbecue with a sky-high twist.

Lore of the Sky FAQs

When are Lore of the Sky open?

They're open 7 days a week.

Opening Hours

• Mon–Tue: 9:30am–6pm
• Wed–Sat: 9:30am–10pm
• Sun & Bank Holidays: 9:30am–8pm

Food Service

• Mon–Tue: 9:30am–3:30pm
• Wed–Sat: 9:30am–8:30pm
• Sun & Bank Holidays: 9:30am–6:30pm

Do Lore of the Sky offer Sunday Roasts?

They offer Sunday Roast Sharing Platters for two that feature a selection of house-smoked meats at Compton Abbas Airfield.

Available exclusively every Sunday from 12:00pm - 3.15pm, this is Sunday dining done the smokehouse way. The platter brings together everything you’d expect from a proper roast, smoked lamb rump, pork belly, whole chicken leg, pigs in blankets, and all the traditional trimmings.

Vegetarian diners can enjoy a rich nut roast option, while younger guests can choose a Junior Roast with smoked lamb, pork belly, or sausage, served with all the trimmings.

Do they run live music at Lore of the Sky?

Lore of the Sky’s Friday nights offer a relaxed end to the week, with live music creating a laid-back atmosphere at Compton Abbas Airfield. Guests are invited to unwind with great drinks, good company, and easy-going vibes as the evening unfolds. The bar stays open until 11pm, and entry is free. Tables can be booked for food from the Fire Pit Friday menu.

Are Lore of the Sky dog-friendly?

Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome onto the outside patio and indoor seating area.

How to get to Lore of the Sky?

Access from Shaftesbury - Join the B3081, and route through Cann Common & Zig Zag Hill. Follow the signs to Compton Abbas Airfield. Please Note: In 2026, the Airfield cannot be accessed from Shaftesbury via the C13 / Melbury Abbas, due to extensive roadworks.

Access from Salisbury / A30 - Turn left onto Dennis Lane at Ludwell, and access via Donhead Hollow. Cross straight over the B3081 junction, following the signs to Compton Abbas Airfield. Please Note: In 2026, the Airfield cannot be accessed from Shaftesbury via the C13 / Melbury Abbas, due to extensive roadworks.

Access from the South / Blandford Forum - From Blandford, head towards Shaftesbury from the Sunrise Roundabout. Follow the signs to Compton Abbas Airfield.