The Old Bank sits in the middle of the village of Marnhull, made famous by Thomas Hardy as ‘Marlott'. It is superbly located for visiting all the beauty spots in the surrounding area, from historic cities to quirky towns and the Jurassic coast. There are hills and woods in which to walk and dogs are welcome to stay too.
What makes a stay at The Old Bank unique?
The welcome is always friendly at The Old Bank, with nothing too much trouble. Breakfast is made with local produce and served in the warm country kitchen straight from the range, or served outside on warm days. Teas and coffee can be taken at any time in the pretty courtyard and there are relaxing chairs in the charming garden. Dogs are welcome and guests can relax outside knowing their dogs are secure in the walled courtyard and garden.
What are the rooms and facilities on offer at The Old Bank?
The Old Bank has three double rooms, one of which can be made up as a twin, and a twin room in the eves next to one of the double rooms. These two rooms make a nice family suite. The large and well-furnished bathroom is opposite a double bedroom and for the private use of the guests. There are tea and coffee making facilities in all the rooms and WiFi in all parts of the house.
What can guests enjoy when staying in the Marnhull area?
Many guests come for the Thomas Hardy connection, with the two pubs mentioned in Tess of the d'Urbervilles still going strong and serving food. The historic church of St Gregory's houses a wonderful stained glass east window by Sir Edward Burne-Jones, the Pre-Raphaelite. There are many pretty rambles through meadows, hills, and bluebell woods nearby, and spectacular sites such as Hambledon Hill, with views across Dorset and Somerset, and walks around Stourhead and many National Trust properties. The Jurassic Coast offers yet more diverse walks and, of course cafes, restaurants and pubs abound. There are many family-friendly activities to be had and there is a post office/shop next door to stock up on food before one goes out.
Where can guests enjoy food and drink?
A full English breakfast or Continental breakfast is served at The Old Bank, from where guests can mull over their plans for the day. The village has two pubs, made famous by Thomas Hardy, still serving food and drink. There are many other restaurants in the area, Dorset being a ‘foodie' county. Guests can be advised and book from The Old Bank. There are smart restaurants, homely pubs and quirky cafes, some in the countryside and some in the historic towns nearby. Harbourside restaurants are popular and delicious Dorset fish is a firm favourite in local places to eat.
Other Information
There is off road parking at the house for cars, and for cyclists The Old Bank is able to offer secure storage for bikes and the ability to dry clothes after inclement weather. In the colder months, there is a wood=burning stove and a warm sitting room for guests to relax and ‘get away from it all'. Families with children and dogs are all welcome!
