10 Castle Street – Cranborne, Dorset
Delightful Alex and Gretchen Boon used to own the King John Inn at nearby Tollard Royal. There they gained a huge following, so much so that they decided to create a private club for their many friends. This is the result, and the good news is that the gorgeous ground-floor restaurant, bar, drawing room and outdoor terrace, and the nine gracious bedrooms are open to all, while the first floor is reserved for members, including Londoners seeking a cool but homely weekend retreat. Though it sounds humble, 10 Castle Street is in fact a glorious early 18th-century mansion set in stately gardens, whose scale and beauty is a thrill. The ethos of head chef, Alex Fulluck, is ‘field to plate’ and here they rear pigs (named Desmond and Gladys), produce vegetables and shoot their own venison. The atmosphere is laid back and fun, a spa is soon to come and it has quickly become one of the most sought-after country boltholes. Doubles from £195.
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Name to Know: Anita, who creates the most delicious cocktails will happily give anyone a lesson or two.
See: The amazing garden which features lots of sculptures and 10 Castle Street’s pet pigs, Desmond and Gladys Emanuel.
Eat: A huge selection of superb dishes created with local produce and herbs from the hotel’s own vegetable garden. Indulge in a 7-course tasting menu or relax with afternoon tea on the terrace.
Buy: Wander around the house and admire the amazing artwork for-sale supplied by an array of wonderful artists from London and from closer to home.
Want to find out more? Visit the hotel's website.
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