Summer Lodge Country House Hotel

Summer lodge is a perfect English countryside escape. It maybe a little heavy on the chintz (which I’d normally avoid) but it all adds to that English country manor escape it’s trying to portray. The staff in general are lovely, so welcoming and friendly (breakfast waitress on our last day could’ve have been a little more helpful) but I can honestly say the others are so lovely and go out of their way that just 1 member of staff can not undo all the others best. The cocktails and drinks are superbly made and very delicious. The food (our favourite part of any stay away as we are big foodies) was very mixed. Breakfast was average, although we did find it odd that an English country manor does not offer a full English breakfast, and the toast was unfortunately far to thin and crispy that was cold by the time we got it. What we did have was nice but nothing to write home about, which surprised us greatly as dinner was absolutely amazing, they were able to cater for my fish allergy too and the menu was informative to for all types of allergens. Hubby would go as far to say the desserts was some of the best he has ever eaten. The cream tea was also lovely, with a good choice of teas available although we had coffee, and being illy coffee that was served it went down very nicely with the scones. The common areas through out the hotel are inviting and comfortable, open fires in some areas, staff discreetly nearby if you need anything without being over bearing or intrusive. Now on to our room, We booked a courtyard suite. It was big and airy, with a huge bed. A small walk in wardrobe, and good size bathroom. There was also a small patio area outside but being January it was a bit to cold to make use of. The decor was pleasant, and the bed comfy. We also made use the spa, it was a clean peaceful area with fairly good facilities, however the treatments we felt were average. Both hubby and I had full body aromatherapy massages and a facial each. However i found my facial left my skin dry and sore, hubbys however left him with dewy soft skin so very mixed reviews and experience with those. We did find the heating was always a little to high, 30 degrees in the spa which did feel a little to warm, and our room was set to 24 degrees on arrival which was also a little too warm, room was easily adjusted though and also had good aircon (good for the ladies at certain points in there life). Breakfast in the conservatory was also a little warm but only had to ask and it was cooled down to a more comfortable level. After staying at several red carnation properties, summer lodge has become one of my favourites and I’m looking forward to returning in summer and seeing the beautiful gardens alive with flowers. The village it’s set in is very quaint and beautiful, I highly recommend a walk around to appreciate the area. The local bakery is also another place definitely worth a visit, the cakes are amazing, As is the local pub (the acorn) full of friendl

I’ve just stayed here for two nights and I just had to leave a review. There are many places in the UK that are beautifully furnished and in wonderful locations BUT there are very few that have such a wonderful team of people looking after you. As a solo (widowed) traveller it’s often tricky manoeuvring single residency and dining. So many times I’ve had to endure the “ is it just you?” syndrome every time I’ve frequented the bar or dining room making me want to scream “yes I’m all on my own!” Summer Lodge know how to spoil all their guests and they oozed welcoming understanding vibes throughout my stay. The food is just insanely good and they have so many extra little touches like the fresh shortbread in your room, the cookies and water for your journey home and the constant human touches of people being in the right place at the right time saying all the right things to make you feel welcome. This was my first visit but it won’t be my last.

Summer Lodge is absolutely superb and a rare traditional gem in the beautiful Dorset countryside. Sometimes it’s the little details which make a big difference such as staff remembering your name and your past visits, your kettle being topped up with fresh water on turndown, delicious homemade shortbread in your room topped up daily, notes and gifts from housekeeping, high quality linen/bedding/pillows and of course a very comfortable bed. From the moment you arrive you are made to feel welcome with personalised service from the excellent team. As you would expect dinner is an occasion with pre-dinner drinks in the drawing room, an amuse bouche, delicious homemade bread before three courses including the option for a traditional cheese trolley. Breakfast was also excellent - particular mention to Philip for his special attention. This really is a jewel in the Red Carnation crown and we look forward to returning again.