Bankes Arms Hotel and Country Inn, Studland

Dont be misled by some of the critical reviews in this page. We are a family of five, myself husband two adult daughters and our seventeen year old son plus two dogs. We have just stayed for a weekend at the pub and have many compliments to deliver and hope this adds a little balance to this page.
The pub didnt smell of old beer and vinegar - it was freshly aired and had a lovely log fire burning welcomingly in the fireplace - comforting after the terrible storms on the way down. Staff extremely friendly and helpful towards us and accommodating the dogs happily, rooms were clean and fresh - new towels every day too - and rooms serviced daily by chambermaid. My daughters even had a jacuzzi in their ensuite bathroom! Food was very good - fresh fish included daily on the menu and we noticed how helpful the staff were towards families with small children too. On Saturday evening the place was crowded with families happily eating there and the bar always seemed busy. I dont actually drink but on the subject of beers my husband says beer choices there are excellent, they even brew some of their own, and they are actually holding a beer festival in the middle of august with 120 to choose from. If I really have to make any critical comment there is only one part of the pub that needs any refreshment really and thats the hall and staircase area leading to the accommodation, but its not a big issue.
Please dont be put off by other people with niggly comments that could have happened anywhere - we were well looked after.

23 Jul 2007 20:47