Cranborne was once frequented by royalty who used to visit the Downs for the hunt and centuries later it still remains a favourite haunt for those with an adventurous streak, only a short distance away from the beautiful Jurassic coast and sandy beaches of Bournemouth. La Fosse benefits greatly from a historic setting such as this, and even the building in which it is situated breathes history, with some of its prior roles being that of a farmhouse and coaching inn.

Chef-Proprietor Mark Hartstone and his wife Emmanuelle are at the helm of affairs here and place emphasis on local suppliers, who are just a doorstep away. The regularly changing menu reflects the kitchen's interest in adding international touches to traditional British classics, like game and pistachio terrine with red currant jelly and caramelised onion and pan-fried salmon fillet with mash potatoes, mussel sauce, leeks and mushrooms.

Diners at La Fosse don't really have to wait till Christmas to enjoy a chocolate brownie Yule log filled with coconut ice snow and raspberry sauce.