Historic bolthole in Hardy country

Vicki Power checked into The Inn at Cranborne during a flying visit to Dorset.

Location
A half-hour’s drive south of Salisbury in east Dorset, the inn is situated prominently on the main street as you enter the pretty village of Cranborne. An inn on the same spot was mentioned in the Domesday book, and its latest incarnation – as a tasteful pub and nine-room B&B – opened in 2012 after extensive renovation by new owner Jane Gould. The village itself, known as Chaseborough in the novels of Thomas Hardy, is a quiet haven of red brick houses on the River Crane, in the middle of the historic Cranborne Estate.

First impressions
Checking in at the pub’s bar gives guests an impressive glance of The Inn’s heart – country chic, with heritage paint hues, exposed brick, panelled walls, wood floors and hanging bundles of dried flowers. A wood-burner in the fireplace keeps the place cosy, and there are enough rooms and seating arrangements for guests to find a secluded corner that suits them. In addition to the main bar there’s a Snug, Inglenook Bar and Lamp Room offering private dining for up to 10.

Bedrooms
Rooms in this 17th-century inn are upstairs in the eaves, which means low ceilings, slightly uneven floors in places and exposed beams, which in my view adds to its charm. Our room, called Boveridge, was dominated by a super kingsize bed with down pillows and duvet, neutral furnishings and a wooden sash window overlooking the high street. But it’s also fully modern, with a flat screen TV, iPod dock, strong wi-fi, lovely buttoned armchair, antique wardrobe and shabby-chic style desk. We gladly helped ourselves to fresh coffee made in our in-room cafetiere [ask for a flask of fresh milk at the bar when checking in].

The bathroom boasted a posh roll-top bath and gorgeous black-and-white tiled floor, although a sign warns guests the floor is not waterproof and therefore they must bathe rather than stand up and use the shower head.

Wining and dining
The pub downstairs is the main attraction. It’s a modern gastro-pub whose chef, Daniel Foy, has created a ’30 Mile’ Menu that aims to source all its food from within that radius – local suppliers are listed. My husband declared the Rump Steak Burger a triumph, and I was delighted with Poole-landed Badger Ale battered haddock and chips. Breakfast was even better, with a buffet of quality cereals, fruit compote and pastries, as well as full English breakfast, included in the price. We were impressed with the poached haddock and egg and the excellent orange juice. Even guests’ pooches won’t feel left out – the menu offers a ‘dog’s breakfast’ of a slice of bacon and a sausage.

Leisure time
The historic Cranborne Estate, originally the hunting lodge of King John, has extensive gardens open to the public and is well worth a visit. The estate’s produce is sold at The Village Store and much of the inn’s food bought there. Cranborne, though sleepy, is close to sites of interest. The edge of the New Forest is just six miles to the east, Chettle House and historic Wimborne nearby, and even Bournemouth only half an hour’s drive.

Highs
The Inn is a gorgeous gastro-pub and B&B that’s been decorated with attention to detail. It takes food provenance seriously and offers high quality accommodation at reasonable prices.

Lows
The lack of a shower in our bedroom was a slight drawback for me, since I’m partial to a shower – some rooms have them, so it’s best to ask when booking. The uneven floors and step up to the bathroom might make the rooms difficult to manoeuvre for those unsteady on their feet.

Verdict
Aimed at those who want a country break in a quality establishment, The Inn’s pub offers a welcoming ambience, local ales and great food, while upstairs the rooms are quaint but thoroughly modern, with high quality furnishings. It’s the perfect bolthole for a quiet weekend away from the hustle and bustle of tourist destinations nearby.

Price
Rooms from £85 to £140 for 2 people sharing, including breakfast, but midweek, corporate and group discounts available.

www.theinnatcranborne.co.uk