The Castleman is ceasing as a hotel and restaurant, and will be operating solely as a whole house self-catering property from October 14th 2022. In a perfect estate village in the foothills of Cranborne Chase, this hotel and restaurant occupies the dower home of Chettle House, a magnificent baroque building. Owners Niki and Jez Barfoot 'have made a fantastic job of creating a comfortable and welcoming country hotel' while preserving the house's eccentric charm. Fires burn in two 'beautifully furnished' drawing rooms, one with ornate Jacobean carved oak. Each bedroom has its own character. Room 3, with antique four-poster, 'decorated in deep, warm burgundy', was 'spotless, with fresh coffee and a cafetière, a torrential rainfall shower over a deep, claw-footed bath'. Chef Liam Boxall's creative dishes are inspired by home-grown ingredients. Maybe black-garlic-stuffed chicken Kiev with crushed potatoes, broccoli and walnuts; or for vegans, roasted carrots with red lentil dhal, toasted seeds and carrot-top salsa. 'We really enjoyed all three courses, and the home-made rolls with butter, oil and balsamic vinegar.' At breakfast there was 'fresh and beautiful orange juice, a perfect poached egg'. Service is friendly and efficient. 'We have another favourite hotel!' (Jill Cox) NOTE: As the Guide went to press, Castleman announced that it was ceasing to trade as a hotel.