Overview
A rather grand-looking 18th-century inn, the Pembroke
Arms sits prominently opposite the gates to Wilton House, just a
short walk from the town centre.
It was originally used as overflow accommodation for the guests
of the Earl and Countess of Pembroke, and later as an Officers'
Mess in 1940, when Wilton House was requisitioned by the Army as
the Headquarters of Southern Command. Ethan Davids, who also owns
the Grosvenor Arms in Hindon (see entry) took over in 2019 and has
been working hard at breathing new life into this substantial
Victorian inn.
It's now a buzzy and vibrant place, especially in summer when
the walled garden is transformed into a festival-esque dining
space, with an outdoor Garden Kitchen and Tap Room. The addition of
Ethan's cool Nole Pizza kitchen concept in a former barn has
certainly pulled in an appreciative crowd.
Inside, you'll find rugs on wooden floors, an eclectic mix of
old dining tables and chairs, warm hues and interesting paintings
on the walls, and leather sofas fronting the log fire in the
bar-cum-dining room. The glow of evening candlight enhances the
cosy atmosphere and draws you in on cold winter nights.
Note: there's a local bus stop opposite, so you can enjoy a
car-free visit to Salisbury.