Summer Lodge Country House Hotel

Overly Stuffy Our room was over the checkin area and we could hear people talking from our room. The room was good and very clean with excellent linens. Though it was a cool day it was difficult to cool the room for sleeping. All in all the room was fine. Our experience in the restaurant was not so good. For dinner the formality of the staff was overdone. Too many people hovering over us the entire meal. Flavors were not to our taste but that maybe others would find them interesting. The worst was our breakfast experience. The server delivered porridge to me and didn't bring a spoon. I used the small spoon with the coffee which was fine. However, the server returned and asked where the spoon was that was used. I told him he didn't bring one which obviously upset him. The utensils are apparently silver plated which is again an attempt to be fancy but overdone. The rest of the food at breakfast was really good but the accusation of theft ruined the entertainment experience. Maybe it is just my preference but I expected a relaxed experience in the country which turned out to be stuffy and anything but relaxing.

We had the most wonderful stay with my family at Summer Lodge over the Easter break! The staff are amazing and go out of their way to fulfil any requests, the spa is beautiful and so are the grounds and the bedrooms. It is really like a country retreat and so comfortable we didn't want to leave! We also ate in the lovely restaurant where the food was so delicious and also sampled the sister hotel, The Acorn Inn, where we also had a gourmet meal. All I can say is that we cannot wait to be back! Thank you everyone at Summer Lodge for making our stay unforgettable!

Impeccable service and beautiful hotel The staff at the hotel went above and beyond, the service was impeccable. The hotel itself was beautiful, inside and out, and the food was wonderful. We really couldn’t have asked for more. Definitely going back soon!

We had an amazing and relaxing stay at Summer lodge. We also enjoyed the beautiful walk around the area. We loved the food and the staff service. The short bread are delicious and I would love to buy more to have at home. We would return for another great stay. Thank you.

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.

A special place to stay and recharge. So friendly and so welcoming.