Search the best hotels in Dorset

10 of Dorset’s Most Romantic Hotels

Dorset

Dorset’s beautiful and oft dramatic coastline is why many people consider this county a romantic destination. As well as promising windswept walks, spectacular, sandy sunsets and plenty of opportunities to dine alfresco or get out on the water, Dorset has the fascinating Jurassic Coast and numerous pretty seaside towns and hamlets. So it’s probably no surprise that quite a few of Dorset’s most romantic hotels are on, or close to, the seafront.

Christchurch Harbour hotel

But Dorset’s gentle hills and sunken lanes, leading to unspoiled, pastoral villages, are also home to a number of our Guru’s top recommendations when it comes to Dorset’s most romantic hotels. There are a number of charming old country pubs, perfect for a quiet, affordable escape, and some grand country houses if you’re looking for a mini-break retreat.

Over half of Dorset is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and three quarters of the coastline is a World Heritage Site, so be prepared for a truly beautiful backdrop against which to plan your romantic suppers for two, sailing trips to secluded coves and a spot of daydreamy sightseeting.

For Romantic Seaside Hotels

Christchurch Harbour Hotel and Spa

  • The Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa is perfect for an indulgent break by the sea. Right on Christchuch Harbour and newly refurbished, this is a sophisticated take on the traditional seaside hotel with a rather glamorous bar and a great restaurant on the ‘top deck’ of the hotel. There’s also a stylish spa.

For a country stay

Priory Hotel

  • The Priory Hotel is a peaceful slice of old England in lovely Wareham on the edge of the Isle of Purbeck. There are 18 classically styled rooms and a beautiful garden. No children under 14.

Romantic Dorset Hotels with Hot Tubs

Summer Lodge

  • If romance is on your mind and privacy is what you want, you'll have to book Summer Lodge's Ivy Cottage. However if you can't stretch to that (prices start at £655 per night B&B), the hotel also has a spa where you'll find a hot tub for all to use.
  • The Captain’s Club Hotel & Spa is a modern seaside hotel in Christchurch, right on the bank of the River Stour. There are 17 rooms and suites, including some self-catering apartments with fully equipped kitchens and balconies with a view. There are lovely terraces a great spa and a good restaurant.

If those properties have inspired you why not check out our Guru’s full collection of hotels with hot tubs in Dorset.

For great value

Museum Inn

  • The Museum Inn is a romantic, rural country pub, this time located in a postcard perfect village in north Dorset. With eight individually designed rooms, in either the main house or the converted stables, and a separate large cottage which sleeps up to 16, the Museum Inn is a great country escape. It’s also got a choice of fine dining or gastropub fare.
  • The Stapleton Arms is a boutique pub/country inn with just four rooms and lovely original features. If you’re looking for a property with plenty of charm, then the Arms is for you. The gourmet pub food has gained a following and they offer a breakfast fit for a king.

Still not sure which to book?

10 of Dorset’s Most Romantic Hotels

Stapleton Arms
Stapleton Arms

Dorset (Dorset)

A reinvention of the English country pub, boutique style. Original highlights - wooden beams, inglenook fireplaces - retained, with addition of stylish, freshly designed rooms. The gourmet pub food has gained a reputation for Sunday Roasts, inspired menus and a breakfast fit for a king.

  • Foodies - Locally sourced, responsibly reared meats, veggies from the back garden, homemade pork pies, scotch eggs and relish- heaven!
  • Families - Child friendly, with kids menu, highchairs, crayons, and plenty of fun countryside activities.
  • Great walks - They will show you where to go, supply you with wellies, umbrellas and picnics- so get out there and explore!
  • Restaurant - Mouthwatering cuisine from the sunday roast, to the bar snacks and breakfast.
from AU$215 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Priory Hotel
Priory Hotel

Wareham (Dorset)

A slice of old England served with China tea. With pretty gardens bordering the river, The Priory is a delightful and luxury historic hotel on the edge of Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck.

  • Local exploring - From the Saxon town walls of the ancient market town of Wareham to the rolling Dorset countryside there is plenty to see.
  • Great walks - The lovely gardens slope down to the River Frome, a perfect starting point for an afternoon stroll.
  • Sights nearby - Check out nearby Corfe village with the spectacular ruins of Corfe Castle, only a few miles away.
  • Restrictions on children - Not under 14
from AU$429 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Museum Inn
Museum Inn

Dorset (Dorset)

The Museum Inn is an award-winning country pub located in a picture-postcard village in rural north Dorset. Eight individually designed rooms either in the main house or converted stables feature plush decor with Bramley bathroom accessories. Plus a separate large cottage for families or groups.

  • Foodies - Both gastropub and fine dining options at the Museum Inn offer locally sourced, wholesome food, expect game from nearby shoots.
  • Groups - Moles cottage sleeps up to 16 and is popular with shooting parties in the season and families in the summer.
  • Traditional - There is a period feel throughout the Museum Inn, with flagstone floors & roaring fire in the bar and antique furnishings.
  • Fishing - Damerham Fisheries offers Trout fishing and Gorcombe Farm boasts fishing, clay pigeon shooting and archery.
from AU$215 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Summer Lodge
Summer Lodge

Dorset (Dorset)

A Hardy-esque country house turned hotel, surrounded by lovely gardens and spectacular countryside. Luxurious rooms boasts elaborate floral fabrics and plush furnishings. The gourmet restaurant is not to be missed, nor the extensive bar. A cosy countryside base, complete with pool, spa and tennis.

  • Foodies - The dream team of Head Chef Steven Titman and world-renowned Sommelier Eric Zwiebel make dinner an unforgettable experience.
  • Romantic Break - Let your romantic side out with candlelit hot tub sessions, in room champagne and rose petals on the bed.
  • Great walks - Borrow wellies for strolls around the English garden or the adjoining deer park teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.
  • Tennis - Guests are welcomed to use the hotel rackets for a Sunday afternoon knockabout on the courts.
from AU$517 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa
Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa

Christchurch

Style and exceptional service on the Dorset coast. The newly refurbished Christchurch Harbour Hotel offers smart bedrooms, excellent food, pampering spa and wonderful views. Perfect for an indulgent break by the sea.

  • Kayaking - Complimentary single and double kayaks available for the guests to use.
  • Restaurant - Two restaurants both making the most of the freshly landed seafood
  • Great walks - Plenty of coastal walks for all abilities
  • Views - Superb views over Christchurch harbour
from AU$312 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Captain's Club Hotel & Spa
Captain's Club Hotel & Spa

Christchurch (Wick Lane)

A modern seaside hotel on the banks of the River Stour in Christchurch. Self-catering rooms and suites have fully equipped kitchens, modern furnishings, and balconies with views. Top of the range spa and therapies, terraces, good restaurant, and plenty of local activities. Very family oriented.

  • Families - Family can accommodate between 3 and 6 guest (plus furry friends) and one even comes with a cinema room!
  • Riverside - Perfectly set on the banks of the River Stour.
  • Weddings
  • Swimming Pool - The spa has an indoor hydrotherapy pool complete with resistance jets and poolside loungers
from AU$447 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Kings Arms , Christchurch
The Kings Arms , Christchurch

Christchurch (Dorset)

This grand Georgian property provides a stylish stay. Inside it is a sympathetic blend of traditional architecture with modern furnishings. Rooms are decorated with velvet headboards, sumptuous armchairs and luxurious bathrooms. The gourmet restaurant has a seasonal delicious locally sourced menu.

  • Sights nearby - The historic Christchurch Priory Church, Christchurch Castle and Highcliffe Castle are within walking distance or very close.
  • Great walks - The many pathways of the Jurassic Coast are on your doorstep.
  • Sailing
  • Designer
from AU$264 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Back to articles

Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.