The Lion Hotel - Pub & Restaurant

Both the evening meal and breakfast were great, nicely seasoned and good portions. Breakfast was ordered the night before, so we didn’t have to think it through in the morning. It was cooked to order once we came down, and came out fresh and hot. There was cranberry and apple juice, pastries, muffins, toast and a selection of cereals. The friendly, accommodating staff were lovely, and I was surprised it wasn’t busier, though it was a weekday. I stayed one night for work in early May. Parking is just across the road, a very short walk away, and reasonably priced. You can pay by card or cash at the machine, or use the JustPark app. Our room was Sandbanks, up in the loft, spotless and nicely decorated. There were sockets where you needed them, a lovely bath in the room, and a TV to watch while I relaxed my sore muscles. The bathroom was great, though short on space for cosmetics and toiletries. I was impressed by the amenities, with plenty of bath cream and moisturiser, tea and coffee bags, and large still and small sparkling bottled water. The narrow loft stairs were steep. The windows didn’t close properly, so traffic noise came in, with cars racing around 11pm and locals shouting, along with strong herbal smells I didn’t want in the room. The bed was two narrow mattresses and lumpy in the middle, which was uncomfortable. Those were my only gripes. A really lovely stay that I’d recommend, though perhaps not in summer. Earplugs might be useful if you’re facing the road. My colleague had a smaller courtyard-facing room and no noise problems.

Hannah and the team at The Lion made our wedding reception such a happy memory. They were friendly, professional and supportive from the start, always ready to help, and nothing felt like too much trouble. We’re so grateful for everything they did. The guest rooms were beautiful, comfortable and thoughtfully decorated, and everyone who stayed over loved them. The food was prepared and presented wonderfully, and our guests had so many compliments for it. The venue had a warm, welcoming atmosphere that was perfect for celebrating with family and friends. Hannah put so much care and time into every detail. She worked closely with us to understand what we wanted and went above and beyond to make it happen. The decorations looked beautiful, just as we imagined, if not better. We honestly couldn’t recommend The Lion highly enough.

Our room, ‘Chesil Beach’, was beautifully furnished with a French twist, and the bed was really comfortable. We liked all the thoughtful extras, from still and sparkling water to plenty of milk for the coffee bags, a cafeteria, a tea pot and all sorts of bathroom products. The shower was great too. The Lion Hotel is stylish and clearly much loved locally. It was busy, with a great atmosphere. From the moment we came in, we felt incredibly welcome. Check-in was excellent, the restaurant manager that evening was charming, and so were the lads behind the bar. Dinner and breakfast the next morning were both delicious and well presented. We really enjoyed our stay and would love to be back soon. Many thanks.

We were in Wimbourne Minster for a wedding and stayed one night at The Lion Hotel. The room was superb, with a warm welcome when we arrived. It was beautifully appointed, with imaginative little extras that made the stay memorable. The ground coffee and cafetière were especially welcome. Breakfast was delicious, and the stay was a perfect addition to a splendid wedding.