Rudds

We really enjoyed staying at Rudds and would come back. The Cove is breathtaking, with plenty of nearby walks, and we had an ice cream at the kiosk by the beach steps and took a rib trip to Durdle Door with the boat people on the beach. The room was tiny but fine as a clean base for our short stay. Fresh linen and towels, a working TV, tea and coffee with biscuits, and a humidifier were provided. The small wardrobe could use another rail or a drawer unit, which might matter for a longer visit. The bathroom needs some TLC: the shower cubicle is small and needs a scrub, and the hot water was scalding, so perhaps a mixer tap would help. The complimentary toiletries were good. We enjoyed drinks on our private decking overlooking the pool. We didn’t use the pool, though it looked inviting and lots of people were enjoying it. Breakfast in Rudds was excellent, with juice, fruit, yoghurt and granola to help ourselves to, plus hot options including smoked salmon and scrambled egg. We both had the delicious full English with tea and toast. Staff were all lovely, friendly and helpful. We stayed in Pool Room 4-5 September.

The coast and the tourist welcome centre are both close by, so Rudds was a great base for getting around Lulworth. The menu also had choices beyond fish, which suited the dietary needs of my friends. We had a fantastic time, and this was a highlight of my experience in Lulworth. The rooms were charming and made things feel warm even in poor weather. Staff were welcoming and friendly without hovering. I know the coast now, but I might come back just for Rudds x

Rudd's has a privileged, beautiful spot and a fabulous garden overlooking Lulworth Cove, but the service really let it down. We came for a family lunch and got no warm welcome. We were the only diners, yet it took 45 minutes to get three baguettes because the bar staff hadn’t passed the order to the kitchen. There wasn’t a proper apology.

It was an expensive stay, though a treat on an otherwise fairly modest trip, and the location was amazing. I booked the boathouse a few months ahead by emailing the owner. We never met him, but Travis and Yvonne, who run most of the hotel, were so sweet, kind and thoughtful. Travis was especially good with my four-year-old son, and they helped make the stay memorable. Having a pool was a bonus. The cook at the time wasn’t friendly at all, though the food was good. Breakfast was included, very generous, and the coffee was great.