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’. 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.