Room at the inn with a regal flourish

This hostelry combines modernity with a genuine sense of history – and has a name selected by Prince Charles himself

admirable job of giving this modern building a genuine sense of history. From the grand staircase and the lofty ceilings to the panelled bedrooms, the attention to detail is impressive. The inn’s ornate facade (based loosely on the Ritz in Piccadilly) looks warm and inviting at night when all five floors are lit up.

Service/facilities 7/10

This is a pub with knobs on and though the bar takes pride of place, there are lots of cosy corners and comfy chairs and you can order morning coffee and afternoon tea as well as pub meals and cask ales (H&W’s own Badger beers are brewed in Dorset). The staff are relaxed and friendly – the cheerful chap who looked after us at dinner is a part-time comedian. There is a swishy lift. The generous terrace out front will be an asset in the summer.

Rooms 8/10

This is a pub with knobs on and there are lots of cosy corners

The inn’s 20 rooms come in two Georgian styles: feminine Jane Austens (soft pastels and delicate birdprint wallpaper) or manly Charles Halls (rich dark carpets and a whiff of gentlemen’s club), but there’s no standard here: every room is different. The Luxury Doubles have king-size beds (bateau-style, wrought iron or vintage brass), the Superiors are slightly smaller. All rooms are furnished with auction-house antiques (hefty old wardrobes, vintage pictures, lots of French polish and upholstery) plus kettles that look like teapots, Putting on the Ritz: the exterior of the Duchess of Cornwall Inn is based loosely on the famous London hotel; the bar, left

Family-friendly?

Yes, with twin beds and interconnecting rooms. Cots can be provided and the restaurant offers a children’s menu.

The details

Duchess of Cornwall, 12 Queen Mother Square, Poundbury, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 3BW (01305 757569; telegraph.co.uk/ tt-duchessofcornwall). For a complete guide to the best hotels in Dorset, see: telegraph.co.uk/tt-dorsethotels