WHAT’S THE BUZZ?
There’s something timeless and deeply romantic in the air at The Seaside Boarding House. Having been completely renovated by Mary-Lou Sturridge, previously managing director of London’s trendy Groucho Club, the interior combines classic Edwardian style with modern flourishes, creating a relaxed but sublimely luxurious atmosphere. Along with the dramatic views out to sea from its cliff-top eyrie, the décor and setting conjure fantasies of men in sharp suits and women in satin dresses dancing the foxtrot on a cruise in the 1930s. This flight of fancy, though, doesn’t do justice to the subtlety of the scheme; the colours of the walls seem to mirror the greens, greys and blues of the ocean, changing in mood and vibrancy along with the weather.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE?
There are 11 rooms, all with huge beds, classic dressing tables or desks, and tiled bathrooms. Some have freestanding, claw-footed baths, others have large showers. Of course, there are no televisions (although, if you can’t bear the idea you can ask for one), instead there is a DAB radio and plenty of books to choose from in the library downstairs.
ANY LUXURIOUS TOUCHES?
Crisp white Egyptian cotton sheets, sumptuous goose-feather pillows, umpteen cushions, and organic mattresses made just across the county border in Devon. Tea is brought in on a tray in the mornings, served in traditional silver teapots.
BEST SEA VIEW?
The rooms at the front of this property have stunning, uninterrupted views out over the ocean. Perfect for storm-watching.
HOW’S THE FOOD?
With some of the best sea views in the county, and a terrace outside for when the weather is fine, the restaurant is worth visiting whether you are staying here or not. White linen and silver cutlery is matched with classic, modern dishes based around the abundant local produce on the doorstep. Dorset is famed for its seafood and you can enjoy scallops with a Vietnamese dressing, nori and crispy onions, a melt-in-the-mouth tranche of halibut with smoked mussel cream and greens, or just a simple crab sandwich. The cocktail bar is also excellent and this is certainly a place to enjoy pre-dinner drinks to make the most of your visit.
WHAT WILL IT COST?
Rooms range from £205 to £265 a night and include a cooked breakfast. Look out for seasonal and off-peak offers on the website.
HOW DO I BOOK?
Call 01308 897205 or visit theseasideboardinghouse.com.
