Dorset House

Dorset House describes itself as ‘breakfast with rooms’, which is a clue that the morning feast in this eco-friendly, cream-washed Georgian house is a bit out of the ordinary. It is cooked by Lyn Martin, co-owner with husband Jason, and who in a former life travelled the world experiencing indifferent hotel meals and determined to do better. Expect ‘delicious’ home-made granola, perhaps followed by avocado and mint on home-baked sourdough, honey-baked figs with rose-scented ricotta or the full Dorset. Sourcing is local and organic, and there are vegan options. If warm, you can eat on the veranda. Bedrooms are town house smart and uncluttered, with waxed floorboards, large sash windows and mid-century and antique furniture. Designer bathrooms are shower-only. Thoughtful touches include books, locally baked treats and chilled water. Most rooms have coastal views or a glimpse of the sea (the house is up a hill). There’s a snug with honesty bar where you can dine on a takeaway or the Martins will recommend restaurants. ‘They could not have been more helpful,’ say guests. ‘They have created a remarkable oasis of calm.’ (H and AB)