The Priory
The old-fashioned charms of this former 16th-century priory in beautiful cottage gardens sloping down to the River Frome in the centre of Wareham are not lost on readers, who conclude that ‘the hotel is a delight’. More
Good Hotel Guide Review
The old-fashioned charms of this former 16th-century priory in beautiful cottage gardens sloping down to the River Frome in the centre of Wareham are not lost on readers, who conclude that ‘the hotel is a delight’. Bedrooms are deliciously different, from one on the ground floor with a walk-in drencher shower to another with river views, up steep stairs in the eaves, full of crooked character. Steps away, a room in the Boathouse was ‘beautifully decorated and appointed. Its location by the river is rather special.’ Ground-floor Boathouse suites also have French doors to a veranda. The drawing room may be ‘rather dated’, but the restaurant is in a light, modern conservatory. Here, Stephan Guinebault’s cooking ‘maintains its high standard’. Typical choices include Portland crab salad, Devon Farm beef fillet or wild mushroom risotto. Background music is ‘gentle and pleasant’, service ‘excellent, friendly and attentive’. ‘Going for a long, bracing walk by the coast after a Priory breakfast, then back for tea, scones and the fire makes for an excellent winter’s day.’ (Max Lickfold, BB, and others). This hotel is a member of Pride of Britain.
Hotel details
Address
Church Green
Wareham
Dorset
BH20 4ND
England
Telephone
01929 551666
Bedrooms
17. Some on ground floor, 4 suites in Boathouse, 1 suitable for disabled.
Open
all year.
Facilities
sitting room, drawing room, snug bar, 2 dining rooms, in-room TV (Freeview), spa treatments, 4½-acre gardens (croquet, river frontage, moorings, fishing), restaurant wheelchair accessible.
Background music
pianist in drawing room Sat evenings ‘and special occasions’.
Children
not under 14.
Dogs
not allowed.
Credit cards
Amex, MC, Visa.
Prices
per room B&B single £176–£304, double £220–£380, D,B&B double £295–£455. Fixed-price dinner £55. 1-night bookings refused high season, peak weekends.
Comments about The Priory