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Arriving at Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, Restaurant and Spa feels like stepping into a Thomas Hardy novel. That might be because the author is in its bones: An architect by profession, Hardy helped his friend, the 6th Earl of Ilchester, draw up the plans for the addition to the 18th century dower house. You won’t want to miss traditional afternoon tea, served daily in the glass-walled conservatory or drawing room and accompanied by homemade scones, strawberry jam and Dorset clotted cream. For an even more quintessential English experience, don a pair of Wellies and go for a romp through the adjacent 600-acre deer park (or if you’re artistically inclined, the lodge will set you up with painting supplies to capture the beauty of the idyllic landscape).
Summer Lodge
9 Fore Street
Evershot, Dorset, England
DT2 0JR
Nearest Airport: BOH
It's been a while since I posted but this hotel has inspired me to do so again. My review is so glowing that Trip Advisor will probably wait a while to publish to check genuine! I'm of 'an age', have travelled a lot both on business and for pleasure, and have to say that this is one of the best hotels I've ever stayed in - if not THE best. The hotel is beautiful and the staff were so friendly and helpful - for example not needing reminding that my husband has a nut allergy, and noting it was my birthday, something I'd muttered in passing when booking the spa. An exquisite plate with chocolates, bidding me Happy Birthday, awaited us in our stunning room. Comfy sofas in the lounge area invite you to chat quietly or curl up and read a book - or indulge in a sumptous cream tea. This filled us up so much we could only manage a sandwich and soup in the evening, and these were absolutely delcious. Just through the exquisite garden is the village with a tiny post office and shop, atmospheric pub and a lovely church beyond which is the cottage where Thomas Hardy, who designed the hotel's lounge area, stayed regularly. I treated myself to a facial and massage which were wonderful and my husband enjoyed the gym. This area, with the pool, was peaceful and well - maintained. We were only there one night but I'd go back in a shot for longer - just wish we could afford to visit regularly. It was absolutely superb.
whithermustIwander
We went for afternoon tea here and it was out of this world! When we arrived we were welcomed back and our table was in the beautiful conservatory over looking the stunning gardens. The service was outstanding, friendly and warm. When the afternoon tea arrived it was well presented and tasted delicious! Such a lovely afternoon Will definitely be back for a roast lunch as it looked amazing! Thanks again to the team for making it special
73geoffreyb - Bournemouth, United Kingdom
We had the most amazing night at this hotel. The room (23) was flawless and so gorgeous, not to mention spotless. It was so nice to be away from the hustle and business of life for an evening. We had our pooch with us, she was so spoilt, her own bed, towel, treats, sausage at breakfast and not to mention all the love she received from staff. The only thing that let our experience down from a 5* to a 4* was how we were greeted to the hotel. We are a younger couple visiting, it was a rare treat for us. As we went in two receptionists looked at us rather confused and assumed we were there for a ‘tour of the grounds’, we said we wanted to check in and then after received our welcome. We also experienced this at the spa, we walked in and the lady at the desk assumed we wanted a ‘day pass’ rather than asking if we were guests of the hotel and how we were. It was a shame because we were already so happy with the hotel and what it had to offer us. First impressions are so essential, especially when paying top money, so top service is also expected. Especially when is was a rare treat for us. I will mention that whilst we were at breakfast, our server was doing an exceptional job, he was so attentive whilst being so busy, I didn’t catch his name but we had breakfast this morning (11th May) and he was just amazing. Breakfast was also exceptional!
Emily R
A favourite Hotel of ours . A visit last week was another wonderful break. Summer Lodge has a feel of true quality, peace and tranquility that comes with a top quality County House Hotel . Staff here are quietly efficient, friendly and eager to assist . Spa facilities were again excellent and we also enjoyed the large indoor pool, complete with great loungers. We loved the little touches that make Summer Lodge notches better than it’s competitors - the home made shortbread and fruit in the room , the selection of Newspapers at breakfast , the gift for your journey home of bottled water and cookies . On this visit we particularly enjoyed the magnificent gardens , not huge but beautifully kept and presented . Soft chairs and swing seats readily available, all discreetly placed around the garden area . There is a good terrace for lunch or the popular afternoon tea , or indeed pre dinner drink . Dinner a joy and breakfast too ( menu includes kippers, haddock and Salmon) Bread from the Village Bakery in Eversholt . Well done Tom Alex and Jack , the GMs for maintaining the highest of standards . A Hotel we look forward to to returning to again soon .
Stationmaster39 - Bath, United Kingdom
A fantastic lunch, delicious food and wine in the most civilised surroundings. Courteous and attentive service without being overbearing.
STEPHENJ889 - Wareham, United Kingdom
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