Deals of the day
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Nestled on the bank of the River Frome on the edge of the Isle of Purbeck, The Priory, in our humble opinion is the finest, independently owned, boutique hotel and fine dining restaurant in Dorset. The perfect place to get away from it all, come and relax, unwind and treat yourself…
The moment you step inside The Priory, we want you to relax, unwind and enjoy yourself. Situated in the market town of Wareham, this is a country hotel with its own special charm.
Set in exquisite, well cared for gardens that are worth a day out in their own right, The Priory retains its heritage as a grand private house and once monastery with unique, one off antiques and luxury interiors, making it one of most special boutique hotels in Dorset.
Coming to stay at The Priory, you will find that we have complemented the traditional country and historical charm of the building itself with modern creature comforts such as our new Garden Room restaurant to make your stay comfortable and relaxing.
Steeped in history, The Priory remains true to its heritage as a monastery and the history of the property alone is reason enough to visit. Situated in a conservation area, the Grade 2 star-listed building dates back to as early as 809.
We think this is pretty special and makes us one of the oldest hotels in Dorset. Naturally, you can expect plenty of quirks and uniqueness from your stay at The Priory. The Priory Hotel stands in over four acres of carefully and lovingly cultivated English cottage gardens, on the banks of the River Frome.
Explore the gardens whatever the season or simply enjoy your coffee, afternoon tea or lunch alfresco while taking in your surroundings. Doesn’t it just sound perfect for relaxing holidays in Dorset with your nearest and dearest?
ROOMS & SUITES
Sought after by those wishing to enjoy the comforts and ambience of a quintessential Grade II listed English country house, each of the hotel’s 17 guest rooms are individually furnished to a high standard, offering their own unique character and charm. Some with views and glimpses of the River Frome and Purbeck Hills, others overlook the lovely gardens or small yet sweet inner courtyard.
Accommodation is available both in the Main House and Boat House, which is located directly on the riverbank. Due to the age, listing, nature, and layout of the property, please kindly note that we do not have any family rooms or interconnecting rooms.
Therefore, children over the age of 14 (unless by special arrangement) are very welcome at The Priory. Unfortunately, we do not accept dogs (only guide dogs by special arrangement).
Traditional Hospitality is our priority during your stay, so we will do our best to meet your needs. Please contact our Reservations team to discuss your requirements and find out more about our rooms. They will help you find the right room for you.
THE MAIN HOUSE
In the main house guest rooms fall into five categories; Small Courtyard Double, Classic Double, Deluxe Double, Superior Double/Twin, and Mini Suite. As the hotel does not have a lift, access to all guest rooms is via the stairs; rooms overlooking the pretty inner courtyard can also be accessed externally on a level walk from the gravel drive.
THE PURBECK SUITE
A spacious, elegant dual aspect mini suite with sumptuous super-king bed or linked twin mattress on the 1st floor with garden and river views. Large bathroom with feature roll top copper bath and separate walk-in shower.
KIMMERIDGE COURTYARD DOUBLE
They say the best things often come in small packages and this is certainly the case for this cosy courtyard double bedroom with double bed on the ground floor which looks out onto our sweet courtyard entrance filled with flowers and shrubs. Walk in shower with combined drencher and riser.
THE BOAT HOUSE
Accommodation is available both in the Main House and Boat House, which is located directly on the riverbank. Due to the age and nature of the property, please kindly note that we do not have any family rooms, interconnecting rooms, or rooms suitable for the disabled. We welcome children over the age of 14 years old (unless by special arrangement).
SWAN BOAT HOUSE SUITE
Situated on the ground floor this is a two-room suite; one room being a separate lounge with French doors opening onto to a riverside veranda and the other being a bedroom with sumptuous super-king bed (or twin divans) and en-suite bathroom.
MALLARD SUITE
A feature room with high vaulted beamed ceiling and striking contemporary open framed 4-poster bed. Overlooking the pretty Boathouse gardens with private balcony and luxury bathroom with whirlpool bath and separate walk-in shower cubicle.
DINING
Head Chef Stephan Guinebault’s own personal ethos lies at the heart of all that he does. When Stephan joined The Priory in 2006, he brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, which all stemmed from growing up on his grandmother’s (grand-maman) farm in the Loire Valley, and her cooking! Motivated by his love of (her) food, he first started work as an apprentice chef whilst simultaneously attending catering college.
He progressed through both ‘Michelin’ and ‘Relais & Chateaux’ establishments in France, gaining invaluable ‘classical’ training and an understanding of regional dishes and techniques. Today, Stephan’s passion for food is as evident as ever.
He thrives on obtaining quality produce, with a guaranteed provenance, using fine, locally sourced, ‘seasonal’ produce, whenever possible. He is inspired by both European and International cuisine, along with traditional French and English dishes, which all translate perfectly to the plates of our discerning customers.
Our new restaurant brings the outside in, come rain or shine you will dine with views over our lawn and down to the river. With ceiling-height windows that open fully, green oak beams, and luxury Mulberry Home interiors, we hope to bring you one of the best dining experiences in the whole of Dorset.
MORNING COFFEE
Enjoy a most welcome mid-morning coffee break in the comfort of The Drawing Room; or The River Terrace on fine days. We offer a blend of freshly brewed classic coffee and the Italian favourites Cappuccino, Latte and Espresso, all are served with a delicious choice of Danish pastries, shortbread biscuits or cake.
AFTERNOON TEA
Enjoy the tradition of Afternoon Tea at The Priory, served in the relaxed comfort of either The John Turner Restaurant or on The River Terrace in the summertime.
Our Afternoon Tea Menu is simply too tempting to resist from a pot of tea for two with homemade shortbread biscuits to a ‘Priory Ritzy Tea’ which can be taken with a glass of English Sparkling Wine if desired. Children aged 8 years and over are very welcome (exceptions are for private dining bookings in the John Turner Restaurant).
DINNER
Enjoy an aperitif in The Drawing Room, The Cloisters Bar or, on warm summer evenings, The River Terrace, whilst you look over the menu and wine list. Our experienced waiting staff are on hand to assist you with your choices and, once you have ordered, you will be invited to your table when your meal is ready to be served. Bon appetite!
EVENTS
If you are looking for somewhere special and unique to host a special occasion or corporate event, The Priory has something for you. Our Front of House team are on hand to help talk through your requirements and tailor your event to make it exactly what you want it to be and more.
SPECIAL OCCASION
At the Priory, we love to celebrate special occasions across the year. Christmas, New Years and Valentines all sound like the perfect excuse for some good food and wine in a beautiful, romantic location. Find out more about how we like to celebrate these special calendar dates.
MEETINGS & EVENTS
The Priory can accommodate your meeting and events in various venues around the hotel. If you are looking for attention to detail and beautiful surroundings for your event, then we could be the venue for you.
Our team have years of experience in helping our customers organise their special occasions. Whether it be a glamorous marquee wedding, intimate anniversary or birthday celebration, we can help you create the event of your dreams!
DISCOVER DORSET
Purbeck is known for its incredible world hetitage jurassic coastline from Durdle Door, to Old Harry, famous beaches such as sandbanks and Kimmeridge and Lulworth Cove are all nearby and not forgetting Corfe Castle.
Stay at The Priory in Wareham, Dorset, and you’ll find yourself on the doorstep of stunning Studland Bay and Lulworth Cove, the countryside of Thomas Hardy and Enid Blyton, and the shores of Sandbanks and Poole Harbour.
The stunning landscape images that follow showcase the natural beauty of our local area, and were photographed by award-winning, Dorset based Photographer Andy Farrer. Andy’s sublime talent at capturing such amazing shots allows us a privileged eye on a world we might otherwise never witness.
DURDLE DOOR
Situated on the dramatic World Heritage Jurassic Coast, with direct access to the South West Coast Path, Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch which sits alongside another geological masterpiece, Lulworth Cove. Due to the contrasting hardnesses of the rocks, together with the local patterns of faults and folds, the arch has formed where bands of rock run parallel to the shoreline.
OLD HARRY
The Old Harry Rocks are three chalk formations, including a stack and a stump, located at Handfast Point. They mark the (easterly) start of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The chalk of Old Harry Rocks used to be part of a long stretch of chalk between Purbeck and the Isle of Wight, but remained as a headland after large parts of this seam were eroded away.
CORFE CASTLE
The village of Corfe Castle, standing at the gateway to the Isle of Purbeck, is dominated by the dramatic ruined castle, a visitor’s delight at any time of year. Built by William the Conqueror, the castle dates back to the 11th century and stands on a natural hill guarding the principal route through the Purbeck Hills.
ARNE PATH
Arne is the RSPB’s flagship heathland. There is a lot to see at any time of year, with beautiful views across Poole Harbour and the Purbeck Hills. A bridleway through the site takes you past the RSPB’s Arne farm, through oak woodland, heathland and down onto the small beach at the edge of Poole Harbour.
KIMMERIDGE BAY
Kimmeridge Bay lies within the Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and boasts the best rock pooling and safest snorkelling site in Dorset. The rocks at Kimmeridge Bay were once the floor of a deep, tropical sea rich in pre-historic life. They formed in the Jurassic period, 155 million years ago. Walk up to Clavell Tower for spectacular views over the bay..
BROWNSEA ISLAND
Brownsea Island, the birthplace of Guiding and Scouting, is the largest of the islands in Poole Harbour. The first records of inhabitants occurred in the 9th century, when a small chapel and hermitage were built by monks.Today, areas of woodland and heath, with a wide variety of wildlife, are open to the public.
SWANAGE BEACH
The beautiful curve of Swange Bay is home to Swanage beach, a gently sloping golden sand beach which is sheltered and generally calm.
The southern half of this beach frontage includes Swanage Pier, and the small town of Swanage; a popular recreational area for beach users, diving, fishing and sailing. Moving north beyond the groynes the coast is undeveloped and undefended, characterised by actively eroding vegetated chalk sea cliffs.
WAREHAM
The small town of Wareham lies on the River Frome with a history dating back nearly 2000 years. It flourished in Saxon times as a strategic stronghold for King Alfred the Great. Today, its localise quayside, facing towpath, and open countryside, together with the surrounding Saxon wall mounds, it still offers visitors a feel of the past.
STAIRHOLE
Stair Hole lies just to the west of Lulworth Cove and is one of the best places to really understand how erosion is shaping the coast. Just behind the eroding Portland Stone, Stair Hole is considered an embryonic cove, and will reveal how Lulworth Cove probably looked 10,000 years ago; eventually, it will join up with Lulworth Cove. By standing on the viewpoint, classic stages of erosion can easily be seen including; caves, blow-holes, arches, stacks and stumps.
