The Manor House

The hotel, a charming historic building with roots dating back centuries, offers a memorable escape defined by its stunning sea views and direct access to the iconic Chesil Beach. Its unique character and tranquil setting make it an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway, dog owners looking for a welcoming retreat, and walkers eager to explore the scenic coastal paths. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff service and the delicious food as key elements of their positive experience, contributing to a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. For those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty, the hotel serves as an excellent base for sightseers exploring the Dorset coastline. To fully appreciate the picturesque surroundings, it is highly recommended to request a room with a sea view, and securing a dinner reservation at the hotel is a worthwhile consideration to enhance your stay.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities designed to enhance guest comfort and relaxation. The cellar bar is frequently praised for its cosy atmosphere, often featuring a log burner, and offers a good selection of beverages. Guests also appreciate the beautifully maintained gardens, which provide ample outdoor seating and offer picturesque views, perfect for unwinding. A large, free car park is available, ensuring convenience for those traveling by car. While Wi-Fi is generally available, some guests have noted it can be inconsistent. It is important to note that due to the historic nature of the building, there is no lift, and guests should be prepared for multiple stairs, some of which are steep, which may pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues. A communal fridge for fresh milk and bottled water is provided, a feature some guests find convenient.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, and the showers are typically powerful and provide ample hot water. Most rooms are equipped with tea and coffee facilities, often complemented by the thoughtful provision of fresh milk. However, some guests have noted that certain rooms, particularly those in the eaves, can be quite small, and the decor in parts of the hotel is perceived as tired or dated, with mentions of peeling paint and stained carpets. Noise from adjacent rooms or overhead, due to thin walls and creaky floorboards, has occasionally been an issue for some. While generally positive, a few reviews mentioned minor bathroom issues such as mould or dislodged fittings, suggesting areas for improvement.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience consistently receives high praise from guests. Breakfast is particularly highlighted as excellent, offering a varied menu with hot options cooked to order, using good quality, often locally sourced, ingredients. Many guests commend the full English breakfast for setting them up for the day. Dinner and evening meals are also frequently described as delicious, well-presented, and of high quality, with specific dishes like the steak pie, fresh fish, and Sunday roast receiving special mention. The restaurant and conservatory areas provide a pleasant atmosphere for dining. While most feedback is positive, some guests have experienced occasional service delays, especially during busy periods, and a few noted that certain popular items, like pastries at breakfast, can sometimes run out. Some specific dishes received mixed reviews regarding preparation or portion size.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a truly stunning location, nestled in a peaceful and quiet area, offering captivating sea views across rolling fields. Its proximity to Chesil Beach, just a short walk away, is a major draw for guests seeking coastal tranquility. Situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the hotel serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Dorset region, including nearby towns and attractions. While the serene setting contributes to a relaxing atmosphere, some guests note that the hotel is somewhat remote, making a car essential for convenient travel to surrounding areas. A large, free car park is available on-site. However, due to the historic architecture, the hotel features numerous stairs, some of which are steep, which guests with mobility concerns should be aware of.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their exceptional service. They are widely described as friendly, helpful, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, often going the extra mile to ensure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Many guests highlight the staff's professionalism and their accommodating nature, particularly in handling requests and providing efficient service. The check-in process is generally smooth and quick, contributing to a positive first impression. Guests also appreciate the staff's positive interactions with pets, making the hotel feel very dog-friendly. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few isolated comments mentioned minor instances of disorganization or communication issues, such as occasional service delays or unacknowledged booking requests, though these appear to be exceptions rather than the norm.

Additional Information
A significant highlight for many guests is the hotel's comprehensive pet-friendly policy, with dogs warmly welcomed in various areas, including the bar and gardens, though a nightly fee per dog applies. The hotel is housed within a historic building, dating back to the 16th or 17th century, which contributes to its unique character and charm, offering an "old world" ambiance. It has also proven to be a highly successful wedding venue, with many positive testimonials praising the staff's organization and the beautiful setting for special events. Guests should be aware that due to the building's age, there is no lift, and rooms may have quirky elements like sloping floors. While generally well-equipped, some rooms may lack a hairdryer, and the standard check-in time is 4 PM, with check-out at 10:30 AM, which some guests find a bit late for arrival or early for departure.