The Crown is in the centre of Blandford, so although it's convenient for exploring the town on foot, it doesn't feel like a country retreat and some rooms suffer from road noise. However, there are peaceful countryside walks nearby, and the coast is under an hour away. The handsome Georgian centre of Blandford is worth a wander and there are markets on Thursdays and Saturdays.
By car: around 2 hours 30 mins from London, 1 hour 30 mins from Bristol and 3 hours from Birmingham. Free public parking is available.
By train: trains from London to Bournemouth take 2 hours 45 mins, the hotel is a 45-minute taxi ride from Bournemouth station. Book trains to Bournemouth.
The handsome Georgian building with tall ceilings, large sash windows and antique furniture feels grander than the average pub. The top section of the restaurant is very smart, with art-laden walls reminiscent of a gallery. The oak-panelled bar feels more like a country boozer and is popular with locals.
Aside from the restaurant, bar and function room, there aren't any additional facilities. The courtyard, which has lots of seating, is pleasant in summer. The service is more informal than you may expect. The Crown is owned by Hall and Woodhouse whose brewery is down the road - tours are available.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
The 27 rooms have a distinctly Georgian feel thanks to high ceilings, large sash windows and antique furniture. The statement wallpapers are fun. The long-life milk in plastic containers is disappointing, but you can ask for proper milk. Rooms at the front of the building suffer from some road noise.
Room types: Standard Double, Duperior Double, Family Room, Luxury Double/ Wedding Suite
Key amenities: ensuite shower or bath with complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi
Hall and Woodhouse own The Crown and their brewery is just down the road, so this is a proper English pub experience with plenty of their own Badger beers on offer. The atmosphere in the restaurant is much more upmarket than in the bar, but the food is pub grub.
Hall & Woodhouse: classic pub dishes including Forum lager battered fish & chips, cheeseburgers and Sunday roasts. Open daily. Mains from £11.95.
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