‘Definitely one to go back to.’ This ‘super hotel’, housed in a 16th-century priory on the River Frome, continues to gather fans. New visitors give it ‘top marks for its very attractive setting and buildings’. They join returning guests in praising the ‘excellent service, lovely ambience in its stylish public rooms and delightful gardens’. Afternoon tea is taken in the drawing room or, in clement weather, on the river terrace with commanding views of the Purbeck hills, while the cosy Cloisters bar serves pre-dinner cocktails. ‘Comfortable’ rooms, in the main house and converted boathouse, are each different, but all have fresh fruit, a minibar, things to read. ‘The Boathouse’s spacious Kingfisher suite was so comfortable and quiet, with river views from a balcony. The bathroom was sleek and warm.’  In the new wood-and-glass dining room, Stephan Guinebault’s modern French-inspired English dishes were ‘well cooked, well presented and amply portioned (although the only vegetarian option didn’t change)’. Breakfast is ‘great’: eggs ‘just right’, ‘delicious’ porridge. (Philippa Parker, Max Lickfold, and others)