Dorset Square

Entrance
Behind its iron railings and facing the enclosed gardens, the Dorset Square hotel has a ground floor covered in white stone, while above rise three storeys in brick. Window boxes adorn each ground floor window while the next floor has its own wrought-iron balcony.  On the left of the lobby is a small reception which,  with its varnished-wood desk, antique till, pale green carpet, creaky wooden floor, fine engravings of horse races, basket of apples, and long case clock, has all the feel of a house in the country: elegant without being over-formal.

On the other side of the lobby is the small Drawing Room, overlooking the square. Beneath a painting of a narrow rocky valley with crowded trees and threatening clouds is a settee with thick green cushions opposite two deep armchairs. A fine fire surround in carved wood, a vase almost overflowing with fresh flowers, an old table and several whiskies to sample all help create a feeling of gentle calm.

With its bright colours dominated by green, numerous plant pots on shelves and a fresco of a cricket pitch, The Potting Shed restaurant on the ground floor provides good food from an interesting menu. Two vaulted alcoves are decorated with gardening tools and provide the perfect retreat for guests wishing to have a quiet drink.

The rooms
Having been restructured and bearing in mind the layout of the building, each room is different in arrangement and atmosphere. Some are romantic, some plain, some with flowery patterns, stripes or checks with bright or plain colours. Some have canopies over the bed and some have four-posters.

While the wallpaper in each room is different it always matches the large curtains, the plain carpet, trimmings, and the bed cover carefully folded at the end of the bed. Rooms are furnished with an eye to tradition with antiques in varnished wood, engravings in gilt frames, brass switches and lamps with shades casting a gentle golden glow. 

Bathrooms are very functional with black and white tiles sparkling with mica, dark wood to create warmth and plenty of mirrors to make the room seem bigger.

In the evening all the beds are turned down and guest are asked to complete a form with their choice of breakfast. A “take-away” service is even provided for early-risers.

Types of room
The hotel has three types of room: Dorset, Regency and Suites; the difference being their size. All rooms (except one which overlooks Gloucester Place) overlook either a courtyard or the square at the front giving them a pleasant view of the gardens. Rooms on the first floor are larger.