Being England, the New Inn is actually more than 400 years old. That shows in heritage-rich rooms where dark panelling and vast gilt mirrors join beams in the bathrooms. Or opt for the modern annexe where painted wood and blue-and-white furnishings rule. The suites (especially Cerne) are gorgeous, boasting stand-alone baths in the bedrooms.
The bar, with its mounted antlers and honey-brown tartan, has the easy atmosphere of a country estate. The food (mains £14 to £20, served noon to 2pm and 7pm to 9pm) is rich in Dorset flavours – bone marrow sauce accompanies veal rump, hints of cider perfume the cod.
