Riverside Retreat: The Priory, Wareham – Hotel Review

2 days ago

History meets natural harmony at this Dorset hidden gem

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Tucked away in Wareham, Dorset, with its stunning grounds and riverside setting, The Priory is a real hidden gem.

Hotel Review: The Priory, Wareham

The setting of this former monastery and Grade II-listed country house hotel is sublime. Perched on the banks of the babbling River Frome, the tranquillity is almost instant. Surrounded by four acres of English cottage gardens, the verdant grounds are refined, timelessly elegant and supremely inviting, especially on a warm summer’s day.

STAY

At the centre is the main building, a Grade II listed quintessentially English country house which dates back to 809 and hums with history. Each of the 17 rooms is charmingly unique, bearing a singular name and featuring bright, airy interiors that draw the outside’s peacefulness in. Many retain their original wooden beams, but all boast contemporary comforts including sumptuous beds and walk-in showers. While some have views of the Purbeck Hills, others overlook the gardens or inner courtyard.

Choose between staying here, or opt for a sojourn in the all-suite Boat House, tucked right by the water’s edge. With vaulted ceilings, antiques and four-poster beds, these four spacious rooms – each named for a water bird – perfectly encapsulate The Priory’s blend of storied history with contemporary luxury.

The Garden Room

EAT & DRINK

Start the evening with an aperitif in the Drawing Room, the Cloisters Bar or, in the summer, on the terrace, before sitting down to try head chef Stephan Guinebault’s three-course dinner menu in the Garden Room restaurant (you can also book in for lunch from Tuesday to Sunday). Think local, seasonal ingredients whipped up into delicious dishes like pan fried seabream, Jurassic Farm lamb and Cornish mussels, all accompanied by floor-to-ceiling windows boasting views across the lawns and down to the river.

The peaceful gardens are ideal for drinking morning coffee while reading the newspapers or afternoon tea, after a day exploring the Dorset coastline.

DO

The hotel is in the market town of Wareham, with gorgeous Studland Bay and Lulworth Cove both a short drive away. Reinvigorate your senses and start your morning in the trendiest fashion: with a dip in the sea. Borrow a Priory Beach Robe from reception and head to Studland beach for a swim followed by a sauna, before snuggling up at one of the beach cafes.

The Priory’s idyllic riverside location is best utilised on a paddleboard excursion: borrow your SUP at reception, launch from one of the property’s pontoons, and meander gently along the river for the perfect fair weather afternoon. The Priory can also arrange e-bike tours and boat charters so guests can get to grips with the local area, as well as local, family-run 4×4 excursions into the stunning Purbeck Hills. Other activities on site and nearby include golf, yoga and clay pigeon shooting.