In early 2008, Jamie and Ariane Jones, who have a combined 45 years of experience in hotels, acquired this small hotel/restaurant, a conversion of four thatched cottages in peaceful Hardy country. 'They are friendly and helpful, and are working very hard,' says a visitor this year restoring it to the Guide. 'Everything is well maintained.' 'A very enjoyable stay,' others wrote. 'She is the cheerful front-of-house, he the excellent chef.' The restaurant and lounge are in the 300-year-old thatched cottage, the bedrooms are in more modern buildings. They are 'fresh, clean, well appointed; good bathrooms'. 'Our downstairs room was slightly small and dark, but comfortable.' In the 'stylish' dining room, Jamie Jones sources local produce for his modern dishes on a 'short, well-chosen' menu, eg, Portland crab and smoked salmon roll; braised shoulder of Westfield mutton and roast loin, butter crushed potatoes, swede cream. 'Excellent and well presented. Breakfast was wonderful, too, especially the smoked haddock with poached egg and lightly creamed sauce, and the home-made croissants.' 'The silence was palpable at night.' Children are welcomed, and Yalbury Cottage is dog-friendly. (Veronica Murray, Lesley and Denis Paiba, Bryan and Mary Blaxall)