The Ollerod

Beaminster's own description of itself as an unpretentious bolthole in a gorgeous corner of Dorset is fair enough, and the reinvention backs it up. The kitchen closed earlier in the year and rather than replace it like for like, the place became a different sort of B&B: Bar and Bed. The Jurassic Coast is close, the rolling hills closer still, and a dip in the sea after a walk is very much the point.

Food now arrives unconventionally, via pop-ups, food trucks and garden BBQ takeovers, alongside a curated bar snack menu. Crust & Cow currently serve Tuesday to Saturday from 4.30pm, eat in with proper plates and cutlery or take away while you have a drink. Nine individually styled ensuite bedrooms and two Coach House apartments come with Dorset-made Wild England toiletries and continental breakfast with freshly cooked eggs. Bringing a dog? Only two rooms and the ground floor apartment allow it, so book direct.