About Us

The Half Moon is a traditional thatched Dorset country pub, dating from the 1600s, only a few minutes from Bridport or Beaminster.

Seasonal local produce features prominently on the menu.

A large country beer garden sits at the back of the pub, and a roaring log fire keeps the wonderful Dorset welcome going throughout the year.

Beer garden, dog friendly, outside dining, parking, scenic views, takeaway available.

The Melplash Show: one of the South West’s premier agricultural exhibitions

Historically, we are cited to be responsible for the formation of the infamous Melplash Show, back in 1846! 

Legend has it that two farmers in the bar parlour argued on the respective merits of their carters, saying that his man could plough better than the other.

To settle their differences, each staked £5 (£400 in today’s money!) that his employee would do the better day’s work. So, on 20 October, 1846 – the same day that Melplash church was consecrated – a contest ensued! 

After the contest many more farmers were heard in the Half Moon parlour, asserting that their own man could have done a better job!

The Melplash Show Prize!

During the joint consecration and competition celebrations at the Melplash Inn (now the Half Moon), the assembled farmers and landowners decided to form the Melplash Agricultural Society and hold a ploughing competition, on 20th October 1847. From these beginnings, the annual show, held at the West Bay showground on the last Thursday before August Bank Holiday, has grown to become one of the South West’s premier agricultural exhibitions.”

(Credit: Bridport Museum and Bridport News).

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