Summer Lodge Hotel

Intimate and special, and surrounded by beautiful countryside, our country-house hotel offers a cosseting experience in the heart of Dorset.

With genuine warm service, innovative and delicious menus, a relaxing spa, a stunning indoor pool and fragrant landscaped gardens, this is the quintessential luxurious escape. We are delighted that our doors are open once more, and the Summer Lodge team are looking forward to welcoming our guests back.

Summer Lodge Country House Hotel is a fine Georgian house in the enchanting village of Evershot, West Dorset.

Set in four acres of beautifully manicured gardens, we offer a world-renowned restaurant and bar, a heated indoor pool, spa and beauty treatments, bicycles, a croquet lawn and an all-weather tennis court.

We are also a 25 minutes’ drive from the Jurassic coast, providing guests with ample opportunity for outdoor pursuits. We are a proud part of the family-owned and run Red Carnation Hotel Collection.

Expect warm smiles at every turn, a host of thoughtful touches, sumptuous rooms and suites, and delicious cuisine, all set within the rolling hills of Dorset.

Our family
Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant is a proud part of the the family-owned and run Red Carnation Hotel Collection.

Led by General Managers Alex and Jack Mackenzie, the team at Summer Lodge is a family of warm and passionate people, deeply committed to giving the very best guest experience through impeccable service and expertise

Breathtaking location
Our beautiful hotel is located within Hardy’s enchanting village of Evershot, West Dorset, and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, providing guests with ample opportunity for walking, cycling, horse riding, fishing and golf.

We are also a 25 minutes’ drive from the Jurassic coast. Summer Lodge is the perfect wedding destination – intimate and special.

Grounds to relax & unwind in
Set within 4 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, the hotel also offers a heated indoor pool, spa and beauty treatments, a fully equipped gymnasium, bicycles, a croquet lawn, and an all-weather tennis court.

There are plenty of private spaces within the hotel gardens, to simply unwind, practise yoga, or relax on one of the garden swings or sun-loungers, with a refreshing cool drink.

Quintessential traditions
Sit back and indulge in a truly quintessential English tradition. Our delicious Dorset Cream Tea includes a scrumptious selection of warmly baked plain and fruit scones.

With a wide selection of speciality teas, and Champagne by the glass – Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed al fresco in summer or fireside in the cosy Drawing Room.

Delicious dining
Inspired by an abundance of superb local ingredients, including Dorset Vinny Blue Cheese and Dorset Beef, and produce grown in the hotel gardens and polytunnels, Executive Chef Steven Titman has created a timeless menu which combines both innovative cuisine and classic signature dishes.

Renowned sommelier Eric Zwiebel is also on hand to recommend the perfect wine from an impressive selection, including hand-crafted wines from our award-winning sister South African vineyard, Bouchard Finlayson.

Extensive selections
The warm and cosy setting of The Bar is the perfect place to enjoy sampling a vast array of expertly created cocktails, from well-known favourites to creatively inspired choices.

Whisky lovers will enjoy relaxing in the traditional Whisky Lounge, with an impressive choice of the finest whiskies from Scotland, Ireland, Canada, USA, South Africa and further across the globe.

Enchanting design
All of our 25 guest rooms and suites are different, each with a warm and inviting country house style of its own.

Rich fabrics and elegant furnishings, crisp Belgian linens warmed with hot water bottles, soft and enveloping bathrobes, luxury amenities, fresh fruit and homemade shortbread are just some of the thoughtful touches. There are also private cottages for extra privacy, some with their own hot tub.

Bea’s Cottage
Named in honour of our beloved President and Founder Beatrice Tollman, Bea’s Cottage is an enchanting four-bedroom home independent from Summer Lodge.

From the private, sheltered rockery and garden to the charming working fireplace and wood-panelled private dining room, Bea’s Cottage makes for a quintessential pastoral escape to refresh, rejuvenate and feed the soul, surrounded by the bucolic English countryside.

Authentic experiences
We offer guests a host of country house experiences to enhance their stay, from falconry and mindfulness workshops to flower arranging and private garden tours.

Guests are also invited to explore food and drink through local wine estate tours, specially hosted Wine Dinners and Whiskey Tasting experiences, ranging from an introduction for whisky novices to a mind-blowing selection of rare and unique whiskies for the connoisseur.

Family orientated
Summer Lodge is the perfect family destination, with a host of outdoor activities to enjoy including a children’s playhouse, family picnics and curated treasure hunts to explore the hotel gardens.

The hotel offers private cottages which are perfect for family groups, the restaurant also has a delicious and healthy children’s menu. Pets are made to feel welcome too, with bespoke in-room pet menus, beds, bowls and suggested walks.

We care
We are committed to our community and to supporting local charities such as Longmead Community Farm and Julia’s House Hospice and more globally, WE Charity.

We grow many of our own vegetables, fruits and herbs in our kitchen gardens and polytunnels and our hotel bees create delicious honey for our guests. We take food waste to a bio-digester to be converted into electricity and also have two electric car charge ports on site.

We work closely with local charities to reuse amenities such as, soaps, which are recycled into paints for children at the Bootmakers Workshop, and we are continuing to remove single-use plastics and reduce food waste with Winnow Solutions.

Sumptuous suites
Every one of our suites are different, each with a warm and inviting country house style of its own. Rich fabrics and elegant furnishings, crisp Belgian linens warmed with hot water bottles, soft and enveloping bathrobes, luxury amenities, fresh fruit and homemade shortbread are just some of the thoughtful touches.

Garden Suite
As our President and Founder’s favourite room at Summer Lodge, this stunning one-bedroom Garden Suite has been beautifully reimagined, with a calming neutral colour palette and original works from eminent artists such as Matisse.

The jewel in the Garden Suite’s crown is the glass conservatory with a private dining, seating and bar area overlooking the hidden private courtyard garden, which is planted with seasonal and local flowers and foliage, and features a charming rockery.

Master Bedroom
Our Master Bedroom, designed by Thomas Hardy, is exquisite. This is how you imagine royalty must have lived – with a grand king-size four-poster bed, antique furniture, a warming fire in the grate and a room big enough to take the most exquisite fabrics and furnishings.

Large windows overlook the gardens and hills beyond, while the room showcases two exceptional bathrooms, one with a walk-in shower and one with a freestanding bathtub and dressing table.

Principal King
Our Principal King rooms in the Main House are spacious and luxurious, with wonderful views over the gardens and the Dorset countryside, while the Principal room in our Courtyard House is beautifully and individually decorated, with a roll-top bath and a comfortable seating area.

Cosy Double
An inspired rural escape with delightful views over the courtyard or towards the village. Each room is exquisitely decorated in the rich, yet relaxed, Summer Lodge style with fresh flowers, 200 thread count Belgian linen, and soft bathrobes.

There’s a cosy gas fire and plenty of discreet technology to keep you connected, including flatscreen TV and wireless internet.

The Summer Lodge Cottages
From the private, sheltered rockery and wood-panelled private dining room in Bea’s Cottage to the enchanting hot tub in Ivy Cottage, surrounded by the garden’s fairy candles and set under the dramatic Dorset stars, Summer Lodge’s cottages make for a quintessential pastoral escape to refresh, rejuvenate and feed the soul…

Ivy Cottage
Set in a charming stone-built Dorset chalet, Ivy cottage is 400 years old and encapsulates the finest in intimate English countryside design, from the boutique 200 thread count bedspreads of the master bedroom to the dainty outdoor furniture of the private, sheltered garden.

Inside, an open log fire contributes to the cottage’s abundant Austen-esque romance, while outside, the bijoux garden makes for a bucolic perch in which to enjoy a morning coffee or a refreshing aperitif. There’s also two master bathrooms, one with a standalone central tub, the other with a spacious walk-in shower.

Ivy Cottage’s most decadent detail is its open-air hot tub, located in the private garden. While pretty throughout the day, it is enchanting at night, surrounded by the garden’s fairy candles and set under the dramatic Dorset stars.

Guests wishing to remain embedded in Ivy Cottage’s private setting may savour Summer Lodge’s locally sourced cuisine from the comfort of their pied-à-terre. The extensive amenities of Summer Lodge’s five-star service are always available to create the most memorable experience possible.

An exceptional culinary journey
Fuelled by an abundance of superb local ingredients, including Dorset Vinny Blue Cheese and Dorset Beef, and produce grown in our kitchen gardens and polytunnels, our Executive Chef Steven Titman has developed a cuisine of international fame.

Dining at its finest
Delicious cuisine and impeccable service go hand-in-hand at Summer Lodge and renowned sommelier Eric Zwiebel will be on hand to offer the finest suggestion of wine to accompany your meal.

Dine in our light and airy conservatory, the elegant Restaurant, or in the warm cosiness of the Whisky Bar, with around 300 whiskies.

In the summer, dine al fresco on the terrace, while our traditional Dorset Afternoon Tea is served every day in the Drawing Room and Conservatory. Our cheese trolley is also exceptional, with an award-winning selection of the very best local cheeses.

The Evershot experience
With our sister pub The Acorn Inn just across the village, we are delighted to offer the best of all worlds… An elegant fine dining restaurant as well as a relaxed gastro pub; a world-class sommelier and amazing real ales; a luxurious drawing room and a cosy bar; croquet and tennis as well as skittles and darts.

Carefully curated
Fine wine is an integral part of the Summer Lodge experience, and our wine list, carefully curated by award-winning cellar master Eric Zwiebel, is filled with fine vintages from around the world. Within it you will encounter a selection of the great names from the Old World – classic wines from Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Champagne – complemented by a wide range of wines from the New World, many of them offering outstanding value.

Foremost among these are the wines from the celebrated Bouchard Finlayson, our sister wine estate, makers of some of South Africa’s most distinguished wines. Summer Lodge is proud to present a range of outstanding vintages from this prestigious marque.

Join us for breakfast
In both the fine-dining setting of the Restaurant and the light and airy Conservatory, breakfast is an elegant affair. Executive Chef Steven Titman’s team uses seasonal, local ingredients, complemented by produce from our own kitchen gardens to craft delicious breakfast dishes.

Local flavours are the language of breakfast, from the farmhouse Somerset apple juice to the Dorset Muesli. Sublime West Country produce makes our buffet a locavore’s delight, while our cooked options showcase local eggs, Denhay bacon, honey from our own bee hives and bread from the Evershot Bakery. Vegan and gluten free options are available.

Afternoon Tea
There is nowhere better to savour a delicious traditional Afternoon Tea than Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant, in the idyllic English countryside and surrounded by Dorset’s rolling hills.

For many years we have welcomed guests and locals for our famous Afternoon Tea, which can be enjoyed in the Conservatory, Whisky Lounge, Drawing Room, or during finer weather, al fresco on the terrace overlooking our beautiful gardens. Please note, we are currently only accepting reservations for Cream Tea.

Intimate, private & exceptional
Our private dining spaces are perfect for intimate gatherings and experiences. Allow the Summer Lodge team to create an exceptional private celebration, with generous hospitality and delicious menus that showcase all that Dorset has to offer.

A vineyard between heaven & earth
Cradled amid the hills of the Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth) valley, our sister vineyard Bouchard Finlayson is widely acclaimed as one of South Africa’s leading boutique wine cellars.

As part of The Travel Corporation (TTC) family of brands, we are proud to showcase and serve the delicious collection of Bouchard Finlayson wines in each of our restaurants and bars.

With a terroir defined by both ancient soils and a cool maritime climate, the vineyards of Bouchard Finlayson are famous for producing award-winning Pinot Noir, elegant Chardonnay and terroir-driven Sauvignon Blanc, while inspired blends showcase the depth of skill and innovation in our winemaking team.

From farm to table
With the amazing local produce available on our doorstep, our Executive Chef Steven Titman and his brigade of exceptional chefs create wonderful menus that carefully reflect our philosophy of “farm to fork”.

We use only the best and most seasonal produce to showcase the finest that Dorset has to offer, with a light and delicate touch that allows the ingredients to speak for themselves.

We are all so proud of our region and our incredible suppliers. From wonderful local cheeses to Dorset truffles and everything in between, we are never short of delicious produce, enhanced by the freshest ingredients grown in our own kitchen gardens and polytunnels.

With one of the world’s finest sommeliers, Eric Zwiebel, on hand, the dining experience is made even more extraordinary. His incredible knowledge and his ability to perfectly match Steven’s food with the finest wines in his carefully curated cellar is truly a thing of beauty. The Restaurant is proud to hold three AA Rosettes.

Warm, cosy & inviting
The warm and cosy setting of The Bar is the perfect place to relax in elegant surroundings and enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple, or perhaps try something new from our impressive selection of beverages.

Sample a vast array of expertly created cocktails, from well-known favourites to inspired choices made with delicious spirits from our local suppliers, including Black Cow Vodka.

Whisky lovers will enjoy relaxing in the traditional Whisky Lounge with an impressive choice of the finest whiskies from Scotland, Ireland, Canada, USA, South Africa and further across the globe.

Our knowledgeable Bar team will be on hand to guide you through the extensive menu and help you choose from our collection of whiskies, cognacs, wines, spirits and cocktails.

Whisky Masterclass
Dive deeper into the world of whisky with a tasting journey led by our resident expert.

Choose from a selection of tasting experiences, ranging from an introduction for whisky novices to a mind-blowing selection of rare and unique whiskies for the connoisseur, each comprising of three superb whiskies served with a delicious assortment of oat cakes, dried fruit, smoked fish, cheese and chocolate.

Hearty & homely
The cuisine at Summer Lodge is legendary, but there may be an occasion during your stay when you fancy something a little more hearty and homely. That’s the time to pop across the road to our sister establishment, The Acorn Inn.

Built in the 16th century from honey coloured local stone, this old coaching inn still retains its original historical character and charm.

Thomas Hardy mentions it as ‘The Sow & Acorn’ in ‘Tess of the d’Urbervilles’ and the interior, with its old beams, low ceilings, oak panelling, flagstone floors and roaring open fires is little changed from his era.

Run by the enthusiastic and experienced management team of Natalie Legg and Richard Legg, it’s that increasingly rare thing – a traditional village pub full of life, laughter and good company, but with an award-winning Restaurant that’s a star attraction in its own right.

Exceptional seasonal events
Browse our calendar of extraordinary experiences at Summer Lodge, from seasonal cocktails and menus using the finest local produce, to unique tasting journeys and extra-special events.

We go to great lengths to provide the very best experiences and welcome suggestions – please do feel free to let us know what may be of interest to you. We look forward to welcoming you in the coming months as we celebrate the changing seasons.

A world of your own
A stay amid the beautiful Dorset countryside is the perfect place to focus on reconnecting with yourself. Relax by the pool overlooking the beautiful gardens, enjoy one of our rejuvenating treatments, or work towards your fitness goals in our fully equipped gym with personal trainers available upon request.

There are plenty of private spaces within the hotel gardens to simply unwind, practise yoga or relax and be mindful in nature on one of the garden swings or sun-loungers, with a refreshing cool drink.

A restorative journey
Summer Lodge is a wonderful environment in which to relax and recharge your batteries. There is a wide collection of treatments to choose from, including restorative facials for men and women, head and full body massages, manicures, pedicures and more.

Our mindfulness classes with qualified teacher Verity Woodgate will invigorate you with the sounds, sights, smells and tastes of the present moment.

Purify & detox
The rejuvenative sanctuary of our Spa offers guests the opportunity to purify and detox. Our Executive Chef prides himself on showcasing local ingredients, particularly the vegetables, fruits and herbs that are grown in our gardens.

Vegetarians are well catered for – try the local goats curd with courgette flowers and garden peas, followed by the tenderstem broccoli risotto and toasted almonds. Vegan options are available upon request.

Jacuzzi
Sit back and immerse yourself in the soothing bubbles of our heated Jacuzzi.

Sauna
Allow the steam from our sauna to cleanse your pores and refresh your mind.

Tennis court
Enjoy some healthy competition with a game or two of tennis on our outdoor court.

Heated pool
Relax in our indoor swimming pool, enclosed in a large glass conservatory and perfectly heated all year round.

Studio gym
Our studio gym is equipped with a state-of-the-art cross-trainer, treadmill, rowing maching, exercise bike and a variety of free weights to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Restore & rejuvenate
The Spa treatments are specifically designed to relax and tone using 100% natural, pure and highly active ingredients.

Our beauty and body programmes allow you to indulge yourself with the most pampering treatments, addressing problem areas such as muscular aches and pains. Whatever your needs, our trained therapists are here to discuss and arrange the ideal treatment that suits you.

Magical weddings at Summer Lodge
Celebrating your wedding at Summer Lodge is one of the most idyllic and romantic experiences imaginable. This elegant and supremely comfortable country house, surrounded by lush gardens in the heart of the Dorset countryside, makes the perfect setting for a day you’ll remember for a lifetime.

A grand occasion
Summer Lodge is sufficiently large to rise effortlessly to the grand occasion, yet it has never lost the feel of a welcoming private home – whether you’re planning an impressive event for up to 70 guests, or a more intimate affair for between two and 24. You can also choose a marquee in the garden for up to 200 guests.

Equally important, there is a close knit team of experienced staff with all the skills, talent and enthusiasm required to make every moment utterly magical. Their attention to detail and passion for excellence are sure to exceed your every expectation.

The ceremony
Hold your ceremony in our local church, in the hotel’s elegant Drawing Room, the intimate Dorchester Suite or weather permitting, outside in the hotel gardens with the idyllic Dorset countryside as your backdrop.

Saint Osmund’s Church is located in the village, just 100 yards from the hotel, with the Drawing Room and Dorchester Suite in the hotel main building.

Intimate weddings
For intimate weddings, the beautiful and serene surroundings of Summer Lodge are perfectly suited to small celebrations as well as large lavish affairs.

Whether you are opting for a celebration for just the two of you together, or with your nearest and dearest, our dedicated staff will make sure your special moment together is everything you could wish for.

Drawing Room
The elegant Drawing Room is located next to the Bar and is beautifully decorated in a traditional style. Perfect for civil ceremonies of up to 40 guests, including the registrar, it’s an ideal venue for the wedding ceremony, before enjoying drinks in the Bar or on the terrace.

The Restaurant
Choose from exclusive-use hire for the evenings, or non-exclusive use for intimate lunchtime celebrations. The restaurant and the adjoining conservatory seat a maximum of 76 guests, or perhaps choose the adjoining Conservatory on its own for up to 20 people.

The Dorchester Suite
The splendid Dorchester Suite offers style and sophistication in peaceful surroundings. Ideal for more intimate weddings, The Dorchester Suite can accommodate up to 22 guests (including registrar) for ceremonies and receptions or a private wedding breakfast for up to 12 people.

Intimate celebrations
Summer Lodge has grandeur and intimacy in equal measure. Guests feel special in Evershot, which is why so many choose this beautiful country-house hotel for family parties and gatherings. Whether you hire one room or the entire property for exclusive use, we will make sure every detail works out exactly as planned.

Your Events Coordinator will take the time to arrange everything and add the personal touches, from flowers and thoughtful gifts to personalised menus and party accessories. No other Dorset venue can add so much magic to a wedding reception, an anniversary, a birthday party, or group celebration.

Meetings & Events
Make business a pleasure in our beautiful Dorchester Suite, located in the Courtyard House of Summer Lodge Hotel, Dorset.

Suitable for private meetings, receptions, lunches and dinners, it can seat 14 people in a boardroom style as well as 24 in a theatre style, providing an intimate environment in which to focus your attention. We are also delighted to offer Summer Lodge for exclusive use.

Adventure is at our heart
In the fresh country air of Summer Lodge, your mind inevitably turns to outdoor pursuits and inner peace. Here in the Dorset countryside, you can find almost any sporting activity or healing therapy. Nearby, you’ll find opportunities for walking, cycling, horse riding, fishing and golf.

You don’t have to leave our grounds to indulge in a bout of gentle – or not so gentle – exercise. We have our own heated indoor pool, a fully equipped gymnasium, bicycles, and in our stunning gardens you will find a croquet lawn, and an all-weather tennis court.

Equestrian
A selection of different riding experiences are available to the public in these two different schools. From experienced riders wanting to enjoy a hack in the countryside or on the beach, to novices looking for their first lessons all abilities can be catered for.

The two schools offer a variety of terrain as one is farmland and the other is a seaside school allowing guests to experience the best of both.

Falconry
Discover the ancient form of falconry right here at Summer Lodge. Paul, together with his Harris hawks Bertie, Titch and Bumble, will treat guests to a unique experience.

After a short introduction to the hawks, you’ll take a 60 – 90 minute stroll around the grounds, with a chance to learn all about these majestic birds of prey. Watch as the hawks leave and return to Paul’s glove on command, swooping and soaring overhead with impressive speed and agility.

To ensure your safety during this time, you can choose whether to have a hands-on encounter with the birds or a no hands-on encounter (with gloves). The walk around the grounds will be conducted with 2-metre physical distancing measures.

Shooting
There are few country pursuits as grand or that offer such a frill as shooting. Whether you’re a newcomer starting off with some clay shooting, or a seasoned game shooting pro, there’s something for everybody to enjoy.

Fishing
We are fortunate at Summer Lodge to have both fantastic fly fishing and terrific trout fishing on our doorstep, set amongst the beautiful countryside of Dorset. Suitable for beginners and competent fishermen alike, we can tailor your half day or full day experience to suit your ability.

Fly fishing
Wrackleford offers some four miles of Dry Fly Fishing on the River Frome, divided into individual fishing beats, most with their own small fishing hut.

Each fishing boat is rented by the day and we can now provide complete fishing equipment, from rods and waders to flies and leader, and given a little notice we can offer a fully guided day with instruction.

The possibility exists for individual fishing on the river, or for organised groups of up to 12 who specifically come for fishing.

Trout fishing
Trout fishing only five miles away: the lakes at Flowers Farm are situated in an attractive natural environment with views overlooking the Blackmore Vale. The fishery comprises five lakes, stocked with high-quality Brown and Rainbow trout. Tuition can be arranged and tackle can be hired.

Sailing
It’s difficult to beat the feeling of freedom that comes from being on the open ocean. Quality Time Training is based on the Isle of Portland, in Portland Marina, perfectly located to enjoy some of the most sheltered waters on the south coast and the stunning and picturesque South West coastline.

Golf
Practise your swing at a selection of four golf courses close to Summer Lodge. We would be delighted to arrange chauffeured transfers to the course and to make any bookings on your behalf.

Ballooning
A balloon flight is a form of flying like no other. You can see in 360 degrees for miles on end, and your flight feels absolutely uninhibited and free. As the landscape shrinks into miniature, a model world appears below and familiar landmarks take on new perspectives.

Whether you are close to the ground viewing the fascinating wildlife, up amongst the clouds marvelling at their powdery appearance, or peering down at dramatic cliffs, rolling hills and toybox towns, you will be intrigued by this aerial mystery tour.

We have partnered with Flyaway Ballooning who have numerous locations in the South West, including right here in Dorset at Summer Lodge. Fly Away Ballooning was founded by a third-generation balloon pilot Hugo Hall.

Hugo’s grandmother Lady Gwen Bellew was a ballooning pioneer and an important figure in introducing Hot Air Ballooning to the United Kingdom.

Hugo has followed in his family’s footsteps and has flown all over the world in far-flung locations such as the mountains of North East India, The Outback and over the rice fields of Chiang Mai.

Country pursuits
Guests at Summer Lodge have access to the adjacent 600 acre Melbury Estate and Deer Park, and we will be delighted to provide Wellington boots in all sizes as well as maps of the best walks and jogging routes.

If you’d like, we’ll provide a picnic for you to enjoy among the scenic landscapes, while for the artist in you, we’ll provide complimentary paints, brushes and easels with which to capture the moment as your special personal keepsake of your time with us.

A little further afield is the World Heritage Coastline which includes some of England’s best beaches, snug coves and sheltered bays, among them the world-renowned Chesil Beach. Around 45 minutes away by car, we’ll be delighted to make all the arrangements for a day trip, including transportation and refreshments.

Within the Dorset countryside there are many outdoor activities to enjoy such as cycling, horse-riding, country walks, fishing, while for those interested in arts and crafts, needlecraft and antiques, this is an area that abounds in specialist shops and suppliers.

Surrounded by beautiful countryside
Our beautiful hotel is located within Hardy’s enchanting village of Evershot, in West Dorset. We are also a 25 minutes’ drive from the Jurassic coast. Evershot is 1 mile west of the A37, about halfway between Dorchester and Yeovil. The hotel entrance is in Summer Lane.

Local towns
We are very lucky at Summer Lodge to have such a fantastic and vast selection of historic towns and villages on our doorstep. The best way to know a place is to get out and experience it first hand… The estimated times for the journeys below are based on driving.

Sherborne
Sherborne is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful towns in England. With its abundance of medieval buildings, Sherborne has much to offer visitors, including a superb 1300-year-old Abbey – an important early example of perpendicular architecture and burial place of two Saxon kings.

Sherborne Abbey is one of only 18 churches awarded five stars in Simon Jenkins’ England’s Thousand Best Churches.

The area also features a picturesque Almshouse, two castles and Cheap Street, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, delicatessens and coffee shops. Enjoy lunch at The Pear Tree, a lovely delicatessen and café. Distance: 11.8 miles – Journey time: 27 minutes

Charmouth
The entire village of Charmouth is a World Heritage Site, and probably the best place to find the fossils constantly being exposed by the mudslides from the cliffs. Hammers are available for hire (alongside the buckets and spades) from the smart heritage centre.

Return to Bridport where you could lunch at The Bull Hotel. En route, visit the Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast. The view from here is, of course, spectacular. Charmouth is also where some scenes from the TV drama ‘Broadchurch’ were filmed. Distance: 19.5 miles – Journey time: 40 minutes

Abbotsbury
When Henry VIII dissolved the larger monasteries of England, he sold the lands forfeited from the Benedictine monks at Abbotsbury to the predecessors of the Ilchester family for whom Summer Lodge was built as a dower house.

Abbotsbury, still owned nearly half a millennium later by the Ilchesters, is well worth a visit. Famous for its swannery, Abbey ruins, St Catherine’s hilltop chapel, tithe barn (now home to a children’s farm) and beautiful town crammed with pubs, coffee shops, antique stores and galleries, one should also visit the sub-tropical gardens and the 18-mile pebble barrier known as Chesil beach. Distance: 16.1 miles – Journey time: 32 minutes

Beaminster, Forde Abbey & Lyme Regis
Travelling west from the hotel, head towards Beaminster, a town with a square of over 200 listed buildings. Continue to Forde Abbey, formerly a Cistercian monastery founded in 1141, renowned for its award-winning gardens and still privately owned.

From there, travel to the quaint seaside town of Lyme Regis, former home of Jane Austen and the town where ‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’ was filmed. There you can visit the Harbour Inn, Town Mill (cheesemonger, micro-brewery, art galleries, pottery, knitwear studio and ancient working flour mill) and Dinosaurland.

Lunch at the Mill Tea and Dining Room, or Lyme’s Fish Bar for the best fish and chips. Afternoon Tea at the Alexandra Hotel offers spectacular views over Lyme Bay. Distance: 22.4 miles – Journey time: 46 minutes

Lawrence of Arabia, Lulworth Cove & Tyneham
T. E. Lawrence’s Cottage, Clouds Hill, was chosen by him because of its proximity to Bovington Camp where he was stationed. Bovington remains an army camp today and is home to the world’s largest Tank Museum.

Lulworth is a short drive away, famous for its mock Jacobean Castle (where Emma Thompson’s ‘Nanny McPhee’ was filmed), horseshoe-shaped harbour created about 10 000 years ago and of course, Durdle Door.

A motorboat service will take you to Durdle Door by sea from where you can best enjoy this beautiful coastline. Tyneham is also nearby – a deserted and perfectly preserved village in a hidden valley. Distance: 23 miles – Journey time: 37 minutes

Poole
A coastal town in Dorset, Poole’s attractions are its award-winning sandy beaches and having the second-largest natural harbour in the world after Sydney, Australia.

There is plenty to do and see in Poole, and the harbour’s shallow waters make it perfect for water-based activities, including sailing, or fishing. On land, you can visit Brownsea Island, a wildlife sanctuary home to the red squirrel and a large variety of birds.

The town centre is also a walkable distance away, perfect for shopping at independent stores and grabbing a bite to eat. Distance: 36.4 miles – Journey time: 50 minutes

Bath
The largest city in Somerset, Bath is most famous for its Roman-built baths, making it the perfect location for leisurely pursuits and wellness. For this reason alone, it is one of the most popular cities visited by tourists every year.

Bath also has other popular attractions including the Royal Victoria Park which hosts seasonal events and open-air concerts, as well as many museums and galleries to explore.

The Royal Crescent, one of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, is 500-foot-long and is an impressive example of Georgian architecture. Distance: 49.5 miles – Journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Salisbury
Located in Wiltshire, Salisbury is a city most famous for its Cathedral Church of Blessed Virgin Mary. The church has the tallest spire as well as the world’s oldest working clock! It also has the original copies of the Magna Carta.

Salisbury is home to an International Arts Festival which attracts some of the biggest names in literature. As well as independent shops and restaurants, the city has over 80 pubs despite its small size, boasting its own local brewery called the Hop Back.

Stonehenge, one of the best-known prehistoric monuments in Europe is located just 9 miles from Salisbury and is easily accessible by car or public transport. Distance: 54 miles – Journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Bournemouth
The largest coastal town in Dorset, Bournemouth is a popular holiday destination, and it has been voted one of the best coastal resorts in England. A family-friendly destination, its seven miles of golden beaches are perfect for activities or simply just relaxation.

A major tourist spot, Bournemouth is home to the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, just a couple of minutes from the beach. It’s a popular foodie destination too – enjoy award-winning fish and chips from Harry Ramsden as you watch the many surfers riding the waves. Distance: 41.1 miles – Journey time: 1 hour

Exeter
Known as Devon’s cathedral city, Exeter has over 2,000 years of history. Exeter Cathedral, which lies at the heart of the city, is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England. A compact size, Exeter is a great shopping destination with both high street and independent stores to browse.

Underneath the city’s streets lies exciting underground passages, which you can explore on a tour – these passages date back to medieval times. Distance: 57.1  miles – Journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Local gardens
From courts to castles, and abbeys to manor houses, Summer Lodge is surrounded by a wide variety of historic houses and gardens. Whether you are interested in the architecture and the history, the flower and fauna, or simply just enjoy taking a stroll in a beautiful setting, we have a selection of our best for you to view.

Abbotsbury Gardens
Established in 1765 by the first Countess of Ilchester as a kitchen garden for her nearby castle. Developed since then into a magnificent landscape with 20 acres of rare and exotic plants from all over the world.

Many of these plants were first introductions, brought to this country by the planting descendants of the Countess. Distance: 18 miles – Journey time: 35 minutes

Barrington Court
Beautiful Gertrude Jekyll-inspired gardens, kitchen gardens and a beautiful manor house. The echoes of the past haunt this Tudor manor house so beautifully restored in the 1920s by the Lyle family.

The working stone-walled kitchen garden produces a variety of wonderful fruits and vegetables, which can be enjoyed in the restaurant. Distance: 22 miles – Journey time: 37 minutes

Athelhampton House & Gardens
The stone-built house dates from 1485, with further building and modification in the centuries that followed. These include a series of formal gardens designed by Inigo Thomas in 1891 with further, partially implemented, planting plans by Thomas Mawson in about 1904. Distance: 19 miles – Journey time: 30 minutes

Forde Abbey House & gardens
30 acres of gardens with a cascade of ponds, including the highest powered fountain in England, surround this 12th Century former monastery. Herbaceous borders, Bog Garden, Rockery, mature Arboretum and working walled kitchen garden.

Plantings and landscaping date from the early 18th century. Distance: 16 miles – Journey time: 35 minutes

Lulworth Castle
Lulworth Castle was built as a hunting lodge with an extensive deer park, featuring archaeological remains of a complex 17th-century formal garden. It includes what is possibly England’s earliest baroque garden. The 17th century walled kitchen garden survives. Distance: 30 miles – Journey time: 60 minutes

Keyneston Mill
Keyneston Mill Botanic Gardens lie in the Tarrant Valley, bordered by the River Stour. The gardens have been designed in ‘compartments’ each featuring plants from a different perfume family.

Their popular workshops unveil the secrets behind the history of perfume and its creation. Distance: 30 miles – Journey time: 47 minutes

Lytes Cary Manor
An intimate medieval manor house with a beautiful Arts and Crafts garden where you can imagine living. Originally the family home of Henry Lyte, where he translated the unique Nieuwe Herball book on herbal remedies, lovingly restored in the 20th century by Sir Walter Jenner.

The garden rooms contain a magical collection of topiary and herbaceous borders, while tranquil walks on the estate take you along the River Cary. Distance: 18 miles – Journey time: 30 minutes

Mapperton
The house dates from the 16th century but was enlarged early to the mid-17th century and partly remodelled in the mid-18th. Formal gardens were created in a valley to the east of the house by Mrs Labouchere in 1927 and modified since 1955.

Three terraces with 1960s orangery, topiary yews, pergola and lily pond lead to a less formal area. Distance: 6 miles – Journey time: 23 minutes

Minterne
Built on the site of an earlier house, with an 18th-century landscape created by Admiral Robert Digby in the manner of Capability Brown who was working at nearby Sherborne Castle at the time.

The gardens are laid out in a horseshoe overlooking a valley with lakes and a cascade. Early 20th century trees and shrubs were introduced from Wilson, Forrest, Rock, Farrer and Kingdom Ward expeditions to the Himalayas. Distance: 7 miles – Journey time: 24 minutes

Tintinhull Garden
The garden, complete with a working kitchen garden and orchard, lies in the charming village of Tintinhull, Somerset. Glittering pools, secluded lawns, colourful borders and clipped hedges provide the perfect spot to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle. Distance: 16 miles – Journey time: 28 minutes

Montacute House
A magnificent, glittering mansion, built in the late 16th century for Sir Edward Phelips. There are many renaissance features, and the Long Gallery, the longest of its kind in England, displays the finest Tudor and Elizabethan portraits from the National Portrait Gallery collection. Distance: 14 miles – Journey time: 26 minutes

Sculpture by the Lakes
Described as one of the most beautiful and unique sculpture parks in the United Kingdom, Sculpture by the Lakes marries the soft beauty of nature’s wild river landscape with the more formal presentation of monumental outdoor sculpture. A fantastic place to visit during your stay at Summer Lodge.

Local beaches
Summer Lodge Country House Hotel & Restaurant is close to many stunning beaches and coastal areas providing uninterrupted landscapes of natural beauty to explore. Here are some of our favourites…

Seatown
A pebbly beach with views of Golden Cap, the south coast’s loftiest cliff, and good fossil-hunting potential. Lunch at The Anchor Inn – a chocolate-box pub right on the beach and ideal for families with a large outdoor dining area. Distance: 18 miles – Journey time: 35 minutes

Kimmeridge Bay
Great for exploring wildlife and geology along the Heritage Coast, with a marine centre run by the Dorset Wildlife Trust. The sheltered bay allows swimming, diving and picnicking. Distance: 40 miles – Journey time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Lulworth Cove
A near-perfect semi-circular beach, carved out of the cliffs by the power of the sea, offers safe bathing in the sheltered bay, rock pools at low tide and endless diversions for the geologically inclined.

From Lulworth Cove there is a popular 2km walk along the cliffs to the equally impressive Durdle Door, a natural arch of limestone rock that overlooks the cove. Distance: 28 miles – Journey time: 45 minutes

Chesil Beach
Chesil Beach is an 18-mile shingle spit reaching from Portland Bill to Abbotsbury, wonderful for walking and bird watching, and a popular centre for windsurfing.

Whilst in the area, visit the Hive Beach Café at nearby Burton Bradstock or the River Cafe in West Bay where much of the crime series Broadchurch was filmed. Distance: 21 miles – Journey time: 43 minutes

Portland Harbour
This is the place for water sports: scuba diving, kite surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing. It was also home to the London 2012 Olympic sailing events, hosted by the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, which also offers sailing lessons.

Recommended dining options with fantastic food with views, include The Crab House Café, Café Oasis, and Quiddles. Distance: 26 miles – Journey time: 45 minutes

Studland Bay
Studland Bay offers 3 miles of beautiful sandy beaches in the unspoilt surroundings of Studland Nature Reserve, a 3200-hectare area of heathland which is a haven for rare birds. The bay’s four main beaches include a National Trust visitor centre and a water sports equipment hire shop, both on Knoll Beach.

Whilst in the area, pop into the Square and Compass Pub in nearby Worth Matravers. You might also like to try some horse-riding at Studland Stables, for rides on the beach, in the forest, on the heath and along the coastal ridge – spectacular views! Distance: 42 miles – Journey time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Burton Bradstock
Ideal for families and perfect for swimmers, Burton Bradstock has ample parking and is easily accessible from neighbouring Bridport. Wonderful cliff top walks can be taken from both ends of the beach.

Whilst in this area, you might like to visit Whitchurch Canonicorum, where you will find the only saint’s relics in England in a parish church.

Also buried here is Sir George Somers (the real-life shipwreck who inspired Shakespeare to write the ‘Tempest’), colonizer of the American state of Virginia and the Caribbean island of Bermuda. Distance: 16 miles – Journey time: 30 minutes

Weymouth
Weymouth’s status as a seaside resort was established over 200 years ago when King George III visited to ‘take the waters’. However, a fact that is likely to be of more interest to the children is that Weymouth’s sand is renowned for being particularly suited to sand sculpture and, more importantly, sandcastle building.

Second Wind, a water sports company, offers Jurassic kayak tours, coasteering (jumping/swimming/climbing and rock-hopping on a variety of natural routes), windsurfing tuition, Jurassic paddle-boarding, Weymouth sailing and kite-surfing. Distance: 22 miles – Journey time: 35 minutes

Thomas Hardy
He was born at Higher Bockhampton, Dorset, on June 2 1840, where his father worked as a master mason and builder. From his father, he gained an appreciation of music and from his mother, an appetite for learning and the delights of the countryside about his rural home.

The Architect
At the age of 16, Hardy helped his father with the architectural drawings for a restoration of Woodsford Castle. The owner, architect James Hicks, was impressed by the younger Hardy’s work, and took him on as an apprentice.

In 1862, aged 22, Hardy moved to London to study and enrolled as a student at King’s College. He worked for prominent architect Arthur Blomfield and won prizes from both the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Architectural Association.

The poet
During this time he began writing, but his poems were rejected by a number of publishers. Poor health forced him to return to Dorset in 1867 and he began to write full time. After the 5th Earl’s marriage in 1872 he embarked on a major expansion of Melbury, including the addition of the Grand Library.

Following its completion he set about an expansion of Summer Lodge which had been built as the Dower House for Melbury, by the 2nd Earl, in 1798.

This addition of the Drawing Room and Master Suite was done in 1893 and it’s generally believed that following their earlier meetings, The 5th Earl, then resident of Summer Lodge, asked Hardy to design the extension.

This new addition is architecturally rather different from the original part of the house and is notable for its high ceilings and particularly for the tall sash windows which allow its rooms to be flooded with natural light.

The Poet & Novelist
Hardy published his first novel, Desperate Remedies, in 1871 to universal disinterest. But the following year Under the Greenwood Tree brought Hardy popular acclaim for the first time.

As with most of his fictional works, Greenwood Tree incorporated real places around Dorset into the plot, including the village school of Higher Bockhampton that Hardy had first attended as a child.

The success of Greenwood Tree brought Hardy a commission to write a serialized novel, A Pair of Blue Eyes, for Tinsley’s Magazine. Once more, Hardy drew upon real life and the novel mirrors his own courtship of Emma.

Hardy followed this with Far From the Madding Crowd, set in Puddletown (renamed Weatherby), near his birthplace. This novel finally netted Hardy the success that enabled him to give up his architectural practice and concentrate solely on writing.

Website: www.summerlodgehotel.co.uk

Rooms: 24

Price: from 235 EUR per night