The Priory Hotel

A truly amazing afternoon with the icing on the cake… The Priory Cream Tea. Warm welcome by such a pleasant lady on reception. We were early as we’d heard the gardens were something not to miss and given we had a beautiful sunny Spring day we took the opportunity to explore. If visiting don’t miss the gardens, clearly the gardening team take enormous pride in their work. The location is adjacent to the River Frome and is just idyllic. After walking the gardens we sat on the terrace before we tea was served. A great spot to relax and unwind. The afternoon tea was served complimented by refreshing tea. We chose Earl Grey and Assam but lots of choice in the John Turner room. A stunning inglenook fireplace is I expect part of the original building. Finger sandwiches were very fresh, tasty and just a little different. Plain and fruit scones (nicely warm) accompanied with very generous portions of delicious strawberry jam and local clotted cream plus a delicious selection of patisserie and an Eton mess treat. Our waiting staff, a young gentleman and lady were courteous, kind and acknowledged we were celebrating a combination birthday and Wedding anniversary. Thank you! What an amazing treat it was to visit such a stunning location, a great hospitality team and superb culinary expertise. Thank you so much for a wonderful visit. We will definitely return and cannot recommend highly enough.

I booked lunch at The Priory Hotel in Wareham for my husband's 90th birthday. Was asked to pay a deposit of £50. I also ordered a birthday cake. Was asked to pay £60 for a small birthday cake. The sponge was about three days old. The top of the cake was put upside down, the bottom of the cake was also upside down. The cake looked as it had been put together by an apprentice without supervision. Not a professional job at all. The cake was anything but pleasant. A huge disappointment for such a special birthday. No table water. Had to order still / sparkling water. Anything that makes money. Only a small bread basket with one small roll per person. The meal portions were on the small side. The pork was oversalted. The waiting times between the courses were very long. When I asked for the bill the £60 deposit paid for the cake was charged again. On two previous occasions the deposit of £50 was charged on the bill again. This was the last time we frequented the Priory. It's just keeps going down hill more and more. A total rip off. One is not made to feel like a valued customer.

We dined in the restaurant as a group of 2 couples. Right from the start the service was fantastic, nothing was too much trouble. The cocktails, wine & food was really good - I had the lobster special which was delicious! A couple of minor issues but these were dealt with straight away so not a problem. Its quite pricey but am happy to pay this for great food and service so we will definitely return. Special mention goes to AJ, Lucy, Scott, Norman & Cris who were all very attentive.