The Grosvenor sits at the heart of this historic hilltop town. Stunning Blackmore Vale views, Saxon ruins (the legacy of King Alfred) and quintessentially English Gold Hill are within 100m. Many of the South West's top attractions are within an hour, including Dorset beaches, Bath, Stonehenge and Longleat Safari Park. Saxon ruins, independent shops and the Thursday-morning market are on the doorstep.
By car: The hotel is 2 hours 10 mins from London, 2 hours 35 mins from Birmingham and 3 hours from Cambridge. There is free public parking nearby.
By train: London Waterloo to Gillingham train station takes 2 hours. The hotel is a 10-minute taxi from the station. Book trains to Gillingham.
The commanding Georgian façade dominates the top of the high street, but the interior is rustic country-style rather than grand (think stripped floorboards, Chesterfield sofas and mounted antlers). Barring some unusual décor choices in the rooms, overall the hotel successfully combines old and new, creating an elegant but laid-back atmosphere.
The facilities are limited to a restaurant and bar on either side of a central courtyard, which is the only outdoor space. Although the town centre location is convenient, the downside is no garden, no car park on-site and some road noise. The service is generally friendly and professional
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Courtyard
- Outdoor dining
- Pet-friendly
- Free Wi-Fi
The rooms vary greatly in size from slightly squished to extremely spacious. All have coffee machines, Wi-Fi and contemporary decor with some bold use of colour. Bathrooms are modern with gorgeous, locally made Bramley toiletries. Ask for a room that doesn't overlook the high street as they can be noisy.
Room types: Standard Double, Premium Double, Balcony Suite, Cranborne Suite
Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with Bramley toiletries, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi
The atmosphere in the restaurant is relaxed. Choose from wood-fired pizzas or a more sophisticated menu by executive chef, Tom Blake, formerly of River Cottage, showcasing the superb local produce. The wine list is enticingly extensive.
The restaurant: modern British and European cuisine, wood-fired pizzas. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Mains from £13.75.
The bar: coffee, cakes, pastries, bar snacks, cocktails, spirits, beers and wines. Full menu also available. Open daily.
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