Positioned on the banks of the River Frome, in the historic market town of Wareham on the Isle of Purbeck, The Priory‘s location is glorious. No wonder the country house hotel and restaurant is part of the PoB (Pride of Britain) collection, a group of independent hotels situated in some of the most beautiful locations around the British Isles.

Now celebrating its 50th anniversary as an independent hotel, back in the day The Priory was a 16th century monastery. The place oozes character and charm and there are still ecclesiastical touches here and there – although the monks never enjoyed the level of comfort (and service) you’ll find at the hotel today.

Dine on classic French cuisine created with the best of the local produce for which Dorset is renowned in the beautiful oak-framed Garden Room. On sunny days, eat out on a terrace overlooking lawns running down to the river with views of the Purbeck Hills beyond.

Sleep in 17 individually decorated ensuite bedrooms in the Main House and suites in the Boat House, a converted barn once used to store local clay. All come with super comfy beds, Molton Brown products, fluffy bathrobes, Nespresso machines, mini fridges, fresh fruit, magazines, books, binoculars (for spotting wildlife) and flatscreen TVs.  Eat your hearts out, brothers!

While you’re there, wander around the four acres of gardens, take afternoon tea in a riverside glass pod or join a yoga session. Borrow a SUP or charter a boat from their own pontoon. Explore the iconic Jurassic Coast – it’s only 10 miles away.

Come to The Priory for breakfasts, coffee, lunches and afternoon cream teas from Weds to Sundays, and for dinner daily (you don’t have to be a guest). Weddings and other special celebrations here would be magical.