25 of the Most Romantic West Country Hotels, UK

The West Country is the unofficial name for the group of counties on England’s ‘tail’, from Gloucestershire and Wiltshire to the tip of Cornwall. To say this region is beautiful and varied is an understatement, there are sandy coves, dramatic cliffs, forests, islands, the rolling bare moors of Exmoor, great surf beaches and historic treasures like the Jurassic Coast and Stonehenge. And all that beauty attracts a lot of visitors. And there’s lots of accommodation around. The challenge is in finding the very best places to stay. And in this case, the most romantic West Country Hotels.

There are plenty of hotels which are quite romantic, but our Guru’s selection only includes those hotels which really have something special. We’ve divided our top recommendations into categories, so we have the most romantic West Country hotels with sea views, and the most romantic West Country Escapes. We’ve also found some super value options and some great country house hotels.

Some of our Most Romantic West Country Hotels Collections:

• 15 of Cornwall's Most Romantic Hotels
• 15 of Devon's Most Romantic Hotels
• 10 of Dorset's Most Romantic Hotels
• 12 of Somerset's Most Romantic Hotels
• 13 of Gloucestershire's Most Romantic Hotels
• 10 of Wiltshire’s Most Romantic Hotels

If you’re planning a honeymoon or planning to walk the coast path, or you're just looking for a seaside escape you’ll find the best of the West Country listed here.

The Most Romantic West Country Hotels for a Special Occasion

• The Hotel Endsleigh is a great honeymoon choice for outdoors-folk, with its intimate, stylish decor by Olga Polizzi and beautiful views over a private stretch of river. Converted from a hunting lodge, this is still a great place for fishing, shooting and rambling, and at the end of the day there are fairytale suites, gourmet cousins and fireside sofas.
• Gidleigh Park Hotel is a super luxurious Dartmoor retreat on 107 acres of beautiful land. There are 24 plush rooms, all with original art and antiques and huge sash windows, plus a Michelin-starred menu served in a grandiose, atmospheric dining room.

• The Gainsborough Bath Spa is where you should stay if you really want the full Bath spa experience: its world class spa takes full advantage of those famous waters with modern therapies and classic, personalised treatments. The hotel is a Grade II listed building with Georgian and Victorian facades and luxurious, elegant interiors. There are 99 rooms, plus a fine restaurant, a chic bar and a beautiful afternoon tearoom.
• The Castle Hotel, Taunton, is a Norman Fortress which has been operated as an inn or hotel since the 12th century. The location is spectacular and the 44 rooms are comfortable and classically decorated, but with all the mod. cons - don’t be put off by the age! There’s a choice of formal dining or something a bit more relaxed.

The Most Romantic West Country Hotel Escapes

• Private and intimate, the Driftwood Hotel has stunning views overlooking Gerrans Bay near Portscatho. The restaurant has a Michelin star and a fine wine list and they’ll do you a wonderful picnic if you feel you want even more privacy. Surrounded by extensive private gardens this is a great place to come for peace and quiet.
• Pebble House on the cliffs above Mevagissey, is a contemporary, luxurious, adults-only guesthouse with incredible views. There are just six rooms and the coast path is right outside the door.
• Little Barwick House by Yeovil is an award-winning restaurant with six rooms, surrounded by three acres of beautiful gardens. Unpretentious and relaxing, Little Barwick is a delicious hideaway close to some lovely historic houses and offering unbeatable service.
• Tor Cottage is an idyllic B&B hidden away down a quiet country and lane surrounded by 28 acres of beautiful countryside. The owner is known for doing a fabulous full English, plus most rooms have a log burning stove and a private terrace. There’s also a pool. Sigh. Great for walkers too.
• The Old Rectory Hotel is right by to the coast within the Exmoor National Park, so the views are incredible and the atmosphere is relaxed and peaceful. You’re 500 metres from the Exmoor coast path and a 30 minute drive from beautiful Woolacombe Beach.

The Most Romantic West Country Hotels with Sea Views

• The Nare is a Cornish, country-house style hotel right on the beach with 36 large, elegant, colonial style rooms with sea views. The Nare also offers a choice of two restaurants, and there’s a tennis court, croquet pitch, a spa and both indoor and outdoor pools and a bar and lounge. It’s secluded and magnificent.
• For nautique chic in St. Mawes, the St. Mawes Hotel delivers. Awash with charm and character these nine rooms and excellent seafood restaurant are just a few minutes from the beach.

• The Cary Arms is a boutique hotel with the charm of a Great British pub and an enviable clifftop position. There are eight, chic, white-washed rooms, glorious spa and a hearty, gastro-pub style restaurant.

• The Old Quay House Hotel in Fowey is a luxurious boutique hotel with just eleven rooms and a wonderful location right on the water overlooking the estuary. The decor is minimalist and there’s an inventive seafood restaurant. Stylish and relaxing.

• The Boskerris Hotel in St. Ives is a sophisticated seaside hotel with light, airy, Mediterranean feeling decor and a spectacular decked terrace overlooking the bay. There are amazing views from most rooms and they do a fabulous afternoon tea.
• The Salcombe Harbour Hotel is on the edge of pretty, bustling Salcombe, and offers spectacular estuary views, wonderful terraces, a spa, pool and cinema.

• The Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa is perfect for an indulgent break by the sea. Right on Christchurch 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.

The Most Romantic Country House Hotels in the West Country

• Kentisbury Grange is a converted manor house surrounded by pretty gardens right on the edge Exmouth National Park. The grange has 16 rooms, decorated in a contemporary style and a superb restaurant by Michelin-starred chef, Michael Caines.
• The Wooden Cabbage is a beautiful private country house with stunning views, fragrant gardens and stylish decor. There are just three rooms and the friendly owners are hosts rather than managers, the breakfasts are locally sourced and you’re surrounded by potential walking trails.
• 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.

The Most Romantic West Country Hotels with Hot Tubs

• Overlooking Mawgan North beach, The Scarlet is a eco-deign hotel with amazing sea views and a stylish cocktail lounge and restaurant. You can reserve a time slot in the log fired clifftop hot tub surrounded by stunning views.
• Orestone Manor Hotel in Torquay is a Georgian manor house overlooking Lyme Bay, turned 11 room vintage chic hotel with bold wallpapers, antique furnishings and a lovely private garden. The food is also very good, and if you book the Garden Suite you’ll have your own private terrace with an outdoor hot tub.
• Harington’s Hotel is a great value hotel in the centre of Bath - in fact you’re the closest hotel to the Thermae Baths, down cobbled Queen Street. There’s no restaurant, but there’s plenty to choose from around you, and as well as being a good spot for a romantic break it’s also great for families. You can hire the courtyard hot tub by the hour.

If you like to sound of some of those properties you might want to consider our Guru’s full collection of the 15 best hotels with hot tubs in the West Country.

The Best Value Romantic West Country Hotels

• 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. Doubles start from £110 B&B.
• History and literature can both be extremely romantic, so The Old Rectory, where Thomas Hardy met his wife, makes for a wonderfully romantic option. It’s also in a secluded and tranquil spot, and has just four rooms and a lovely walled veggie garden which is where much of the beautifully cooked local food served here originates. Rooms start from around £85 per night.

• The elegant Horn of Plenty Hotel is a luxurious country house in the beautifully rural Tamar Valley, right on the edge of Dartmoor. There are 16 modern, comfortable room and fine dining in the 2 AA Rosette rated restaurant. Rooms start from around £130 per night.
• The Devonshire Arms in Langport, near Glastonbury, is a hunting lodge turned pub overlooking the village green. There are nine rooms and a fantastic gourmet pub menu. This is a great spot for walkers and anyone who loves the romance of outdoor pursuits. Rooms start from around £100 per night including breakfast.

If you haven’t found your idea of the most romantic hotels in the West Country on our Guru’s list of 25 of the Most Romantic West Country Hotels you could:

• Consult our Ultimate Guide to the Most Romantic Hotels in the UK?
• Or you could consider our Guru’s collection of The 15 Best Hotels with Hot Tubs in the West Country?
• Or you could refine by county and consider just Cornwall's Most Romantic Hotels? or 10 of Dorset's Most Romantic Hotels? or 10 of Wiltshire’s Most Romantic Hotels?
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

  • St Mawes Hotel St Mawes 7 rooms from €257

    
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    Boutique  -  Fun touches like a 25-seater cinema, takeaway pizzas, and private dinners make this a standout boutique choice

    Beach Life  -  A lovely beach-chic coastal property only a few minutes from the beach with an excellent seafood restaurant

    Sights nearby  -  Visit Cornwall castles such as St Mawes Castle and Pendennis Castle, both within two miles

    Restaurant  -  The restaurant serves modern Cornish dishes and pizzas are available too

    

    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels , Sawdays

    A chic boutique hotel set in St Mawes and packed full of character. Stylish rooms are designed with a fresh take on traditional style. Think sash windows, pale wood furniture, and modern fabrics. With a popular seafood restaurant and even its own cinema, this small property packs a punch. See More

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  • The Nare Cornwall 36 rooms from €455

    
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    Families  -  A good choice for an inter-generational break with something to entertain all ages (plus the dog is welcome too)

    Active Holiday  -  With pools, a tennis court, and boats there is plenty to do at the property itself

    Self catering  -  The Pendower Suite and The Lemoria Cottage have kitchens

    Sights nearby  -  The Lost gardens of Heligan and The Eden Project are easily accessible and worth a visit

    

    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    A longstanding, privately owned “country house by the sea” offering warmth, kindness, old school manners, formal dining and comfortable, traditional bedrooms in a stunning location overlooking Carne Bay. A Cornish home-from-home beloved by many often-returning families See More

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  • The Gainsborough Bath Spa Bath 99 rooms from €294

    
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    Spa breaks  -  Tapping into Bath's original thermal springs

    Wellbeing  -  An extensive range of personalised therapies

    Total relaxation  -  Specialist aquatic body therapies

    Restaurant  -  Johann Lafer at The Gainsborough offers fine dining in a smart yet relaxed atmosphere#

    

    A one of a kind thermal spa hotel in the heart of Bath. Each bedroom is elegantly decorated with period details and contemporary features. Luxurious bedding and modern appliances provide extra comfort. The hotel has a fine restaurant, chic bar and a pleasant afternoon tea lounge. See More

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  • The Castle Hotel, Somerset Taunton (Somerset) 44 rooms from €184

    
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    Families  -  A great family stay, babysitting is available and the kids will love the novelty of staying in a castle with a moat to boot!

    Great walks  -  The nearby Hestercombe Gardens are recommended from those that know the area, plus the hotel will pack you a lunch.

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    Since the 12th Century this Norman Fortress has opened its doors to travelers with immaculate hospitality and spectacular countryside spot. Comfortable, classically decorated rooms offer all the mod-cons. BRAZZ, the contemporary brasserie and locally popular Bow Restaurant offers a range of dishes. See More

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  • Hotel Endsleigh Tavistock 19 rooms from €288

    
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    Families  -  Babysitting and monitors available plus such delights as picnics (complete with lanterns and blankets) in the grounds.

    Honeymoons  -  Fairytale suites, gourmet cuisine, cosy fireside sofas and incredible grounds for strolling hand in hand- enchanting!

    Country Escape  -  Extensive grounds for fishing, shooting, and rambling, plus plenty of comfy armchairs for the weary walker!

    Sights nearby  -  The National Trust and its stately homes make for a great day exploring - Cothele House, Saltram House and Castle Drogo.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection

    Historic shooting lodge offering an intimate, Olga Polizzi styled stay. Relax in the stunning grounds or in the library. Beautiful rooms overlook the Tamar valley and river. Excellent restaurant, and immaculate staff. Probably one of the best in the South West. See More

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  • Cary Arms Torquay 21 rooms from €188

    
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    Exclusive offer  -  Summer Spa Breaks

    Total relaxation  -  Lazy days eating seafood on the terrace, followed by customised holistic treatments in the spa using Yon-Ka products.

    Families  -  Three cottages with three, four or five rooms are ideal for families.

    Great walks  -  Jump onto the South West Coast Path National Trail spanning for 630 miles through stunning landscapes.

    Fishing  -  The Inn provides rods for the pier and nets for fishing in rock pools.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    A boutique hotel with the charm of a British pub. The cliff top position makes for stunning views. Chic white washed rooms mix traditional features with modern simplicity. Hearty gastro-pub styled food is served at the restaurant. A glorious spa. An excellent choice for a family holiday. See More

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  • Christchurch Harbour Hotel & Spa Christchurch 64 rooms from €184

    
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    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

    

    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. See More

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  • Gidleigh Park Hotel Chagford 24 rooms from €311

    
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    Fishing  -  Fly fishing on the River Teign - licenses and tuition provided

    Garden  -  Beautiful landscaped garden

    Great walks  -  There are inumerable lovely walking trails both on thr 107 acres of mature grounds and on nearby Dartmoor.

    Tennis  -  On site tennis cpurts are avaialble for guests useage.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux, Sawdays

    Super luxurious and pampering Dartmoor retreat, on 107 acres of mature grounds. The plush rooms come with antique furnishings, original art and huge sash windows. The Michelin stared food is served in an atmospheric and grandiose dining room. Peaceful, restful and totally heavenly. See More

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  • Harington's Hotel Bath 13 rooms from €167

    
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    Private Hot Tub  -  You can hire the courtyard hot tub by the hour for private usage.

    Sights nearby  -  Closest hotel to the Thermae Spa

    

    Excellent value town centre hotel a stone's throw from the best that Bath has to offer. No restaurant, but in this city there's plenty of choice elsewhere. Great for families and those on a budget. See More

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  • Old Quay House Hotel Fowey (Cornwall) 11 rooms from €230

    
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    Beach Life  -  Nearby seaside activities range from sailing to surfing, fishing to feasting and everything in between

    Romantic Break  -  A classic English romantic getaway with gourmet dining and romantic suites with sea views

    Great walks  -  Wonderful walking all around this area, a particualr favourite is the picturesque Hall Walk, which ends in pretty Polruan

    Sights nearby  -  The ruins of St Catherine’s Castle sit on the edge of the town and command spectacular views of the harbour

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Sawdays, Tablet, I Escape

    A luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Fowey with estuary views and contemporary charm. Rooms boast wonderful views and simple minimalist style. The locally popular terraced restaurant serves an inventive menu of local seafood. An ideal spot for a romantic mini-break. See More

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  • Priory Hotel Wareham (Dorset) 17 rooms from €254

    
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    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

    

    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    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. See More

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  • Boskerris Hotel St Ives (Carbis Bay) 15 rooms from €259

    
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    Local exploring  -  From St Ives' art galleries and the Tate St Ives to rugged countryside for treks and surfing - there's plenty to explore

    Restaurant  -  Breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinners are served with regularly changing menus use the best of local produce

    Sights nearby  -  Tate St Ives is within walking distance and is a real must visit

    Great walks  -  Hop on the nearby South West Coast Path

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    A sophisticated seaside hotel with fabulous views of Carbis Bay. Decor is light, airy, and contemporary with a Mediterranean feel. A large terrace is perfect for a sundowner while breakfasts, high teas, and dinners are a choice of small regularly changing menus. A stylish base for a coastal stay. See More

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  • Driftwood Hotel St Mawes (Cornwall) 14 rooms from €254

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Perfect for a romantic retreat — think sunset strolls on the beach, candlelight dinners, and a private cabin with a terrace

    Foodies  -  Chef Olly Pierrepoint creates stunning dishes in this highly regarded 3AA Rosette restaurant

    Great walks  -  Grab a hotel picnic and head out through the private estate right down to the coast and explore the beautiful beaches

    Fishing  -  Right on the coast, there are plenty of fishing boats to rent for the day with equippment and guides if necessary

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Sawdays

    Set in scenic private grounds, this chic and intimate hotel overlooks stunning Gerrans Bay. Light, marine inspired rooms are the perfect example of comfort meets luxury. Fabulous food at the restaurant makes dining a spoiling yet casual affair, matched by a fine wine list. A dream Cornish location. See More

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  • The Old Rectory Hotel Martinhoe, Devon 15 rooms from €207

    
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    Restaurant  -  Seasonal menu serving classic dishes, using locally-sourced ingredients.

    Fishing  -  Woolacombe Beach is just a 30 minute drive away.

    Great walks  -  500 metres from the Exmoor coastal path.

    Surfing  -  On nearby Woolacombe Beach.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide, I Escape

    A very relaxed hotel nestled in the Devonshire countryside. A secluded escape with well-styled rooms and excellent, locally-sourced food. Guests can take many delightful walks to local beauty spots within Exmoor National Park. The perfect place for a quiet weekend away. See More

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  • The Scarlet, Cornwall Newquay 37 rooms from €225

    
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    Romantic Break  -  With a spoiling spa, luxurious rooms with sea views, and fine dining - this is the perfect setting for romance

    Spa  -  An eco spa featuring a bromine-filtered indoor pool, outdoor natural reed pool, a wooden sauna, and pod treatment rooms

    Restaurant  -  Seasonal dishes are served in the restaurant alongside a good selection of wines

    Surfing  -  There are several surfing beaches nearby and plenty of surf schools too

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    Relaxing, purpose-designed eco-friendly hotel overlooking Mawgan Porth beach. Rooms are decorated with contemporary furniture & local art. Enjoy sea views from the cocktail lounge and the stylish hotel restaurant. Expect fantastic spa facilities for relaxation and great outdoor activities nearby. See More

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  • Salcombe Harbour Hotel Devon 50 rooms from €340

    
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    Suites  -  All rooms come with 'balcony baskets' with binoculars throws and books, complimentary gin and sherry

    Sit-out Terrace  -  Wonderful terraces with sunloungers and glorious views of the harbour, estuary and out to sea.

    Restaurant  -  The Jetty Restaurant is both chic and family friendly with mouthwatering seafood lunch bar

    Parking  -  Cars are left on the hotel state of the art turntable and valet parked!

    

    On the edge of bustling and picture postcard Salcombe this stunning newly refurbished boutique hotel has everything one could wish for. Magnificently situated, overlooking the estuary with its sailing boats, sandy beaches and a short walk into town. Wonderful terraces, spa and pool, cinema. Bliss See More

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  • Horn of Plenty Hotel Tavistock (Gulworthy) 16 rooms from €150

    
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    Groups  -  If you want your own country house just for the weekend then this is the place for you. Exclusive use is avaliable.

    Foodies  -  The award winning restaurant tantalises your taste buds with its locally sourced, seasonal and inventive menu.

    Great walks  -  With all of Dartmoor on your doorstep there is no excuse for sitting inside.

    Sights nearby  -  Dartmoor National Park and The Eden Project are both nearby.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Luxury and elegance make up this country house in rural Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor - a peaceful stay in stunning grounds. Modern, comfortable rooms are unique in style and capture the view. Fine dining at the 2 AA Rosettes restaurant. A perfect adult retreat. See More

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  • Museum Inn Blandford Forum, Dorset 8 rooms from €127

    
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    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.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    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. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Tuesday, 31st October 2023