The King's Arms in Dorchester will be celebrating its royal connections with a special programme of events over the coronation weekend.

The iconic town centre hotel and restaurant, which has hosted several royals in its long history, plans to mark the coronation of King Charles III and the Queen Consort Camilla in style.

Alexis Ross, general manager at The King's Arms, said: "We're very much looking forward to celebrating the coronation. I think it's only fitting that with our name and history that we ensure that everyone has the chance to come together for a weekend full of friendship, food, and fun to mark this historic occasion. 

"We will have live music, a DJ, screening of the big event, and special menus. Steve Yates, our head chef, has created some delicious dishes including a 'Britain on a Board' sharing plate and a fantastic Queen of Puddings.

"We're hoping it will be a sunny weekend and there will be dancing on the terrace but whatever the weather the party will be go ahead with great food, drink, and music."

The King's Arms is one of Dorchester's most iconic and treasured landmarks, bought by The Stay Original Company in 2016 after it had been closed by the former owners.

With a history entwined with Thomas Hardy and a roll call of glamorous guests from former years, the grade II listed building underwent a £5million renovation before reopening in September 2021.

The celebrated hotel, with its iconic bay window, is steeped in history. It featured extensively in Hardy's novel, The Mayor of Casterbridge, as well as in Far from The Madding Crowd.

During its 300-year history, the building has hosted monarchs and musicians. Previous guests have included Queen Victoria, King George IV, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones.

Here's what's happening at The King's Arms, King's Coronation weekend:

Friday, May 5 - Best of British DJ night 

Resident DJ Si Jubb will be playing an all-British themed DJ Night and there will be Coronation Cocktails. No entry fee, just come along, and boogie from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.

Saturday, May 6 - Screening of coronation followed by live music on the terrace

The coronation will be shown live on several screens throughout the building. Entry is free.

Following the coronation, local artist Chris Davies will perform live on the terrace.

A specially created menu will be served for the day, including 'Britain on a Board', a sharing plate for two, featuring a selection of iconic British food.

Sunday, May 7 - Sunday roasts & special menu

Keeping it classic with The King's Arms ever popular Sunday roasts. 

Head Chef Steve Yates has also created a special menu of Royal Fish Pie & Queen of Puddings, all available from 12noon to 9pm. Make sure to book your table in advance!

Monday, May 8 - street food & live DJ on the terrace

Chilled vibes, feel good music, and fabulous flat breads to celebrate Bank Holiday Monday. 

Si Jubb and his DJ deck will be on the terrace from 3pm to 6pm to complete the Bank Holiday Weekend celebrations.

There will be a delicious selection of flatbreads with tasty toppings of lamb Shwarma, chicken souvlaki and oyster mushroom, as well as homemade honeycomb doughnuts, available from 12noon to 9pm. 

For more information and booking, visit www.thekingsarmsdorchester.com/events

If you are holding a coronation event in the Dorchester area, please send details to [email protected] for publicity and coverage on Dorchester Nub News.