Guy Ritchie’s team launches Texas-style smokehouse at historic Dorset airfield

Lore of the Sky has recently opened its doors at Compton Abbas Airfield in Dorset, offering Texas-style barbecue and panoramic countryside views. The new smokehouse restaurant, launched by filmmaker Guy Ritchie’s team, is situated within the historic airfield, which has been a hub for aviation enthusiasts since 1962.

Compton Abbas Airfield, located within the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is known for its aviation heritage and scenic setting. Since being acquired by Guy Ritchie in 2022, the site has seen renewed investment, with Lore of the Sky marking a significant addition to its hospitality offering.

The restaurant’s menu, curated by Head Chef Alex Brown, focuses on authentic Texas barbecue dishes. Highlights include Oak-smoked Pork Belly, Loaded Smokehouse Nachos, and a Slow-braised Jackfruit Burger. All meats are smoked on-site using a J&R Oyler Smoker, which is the first of its kind in the UK and only the second in Europe, having been imported from Texas.

Beverage options feature draught beers, ales, and ciders sourced from local Dorset and Wiltshire breweries. The restaurant also offers Altitude, a lager brewed in-house to commemorate the airfield’s aviation history.

The airfield remains fully operational, providing visitors with the opportunity to observe aircraft such as Spitfires and vintage planes taking off and landing. Flying experiences are also available for those interested in flying themselves. Throughout the year, Compton Abbas Airfield hosts a series of events, including classic car gatherings, aerobatic competitions, and themed weekends such as Land Rover Weekend and the Christmas Fly-In.

Drawing inspiration from its sister Fitzrovia-based pub, Lore of the Land, Lore of the Sky brings the same dedication to quality, atmosphere, and locally sourced produce to the scenic surroundings of Compton Abbas Airfield.

The restaurant is accessible to both locals and visitors, with the nearest train station at Tisbury offering connections to London Waterloo in under two hours. Compton Abbas Airfield continues to operate as a licensed airfield, providing flight training and private aviation services alongside its new dining offering. 

Food Desk

For further information and reservations, visit Lore of the Sky’s website here.