The Bull has been operating as an inn for over 500 years. No doubt it was once frequented by smugglers and unsavoury characters - it was the scene of a murder during the 1585 Monmouth Rebellion - but it has now been fully gentrified and attracts a far more refined clientele. Original features hint at its long past, while a contemporary décor of bold wallpapers and coastal prints brings it up to date. It stands proudly on the main street through Bridport, a thriving market town less than two miles from the beach and harbour at West Bay. West Bay was the location for the BBC series, Broadchurch; thankfully, it's a far more friendly and less hazardous place in real life.
Walk through the unspoilt Bride Valley for a dose of bucolic beauty and tranquillity away from the seaside crowds.
Bridport is the gateway to the Jurassic Coast, while West Bay is a five-minute drive away and has a lovely sandy beach.
By car: around 4 hours from London, 2 hours from Bristol and 3 hours 45 minutes from Birmingham. Free parking available.
By train: trains from London to Dorchester take under 3 hours. The hotel is 20 minutes' drive. thetrainline.com
The hotel is conveniently located for exploring the Jurassic Coast, and it's family and pet-friendly. The courtyard, decorated with fairy lights, is a good spot to relax with a drink on a summer's evening.
The courtyard packed with potted plants and criss-crossed with fairy lights invites you to relax after a day exploring. There are water bowls and dog treats at the bar, and lots of great dog walks in the area.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Terrace
- Garden
- Games room
- Pet-friendly
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
The Deluxe Room is pretty, with its rattan sleigh bed and slipper bath on a little stage. Statement wallpaper, hefty fireplaces and carefully chosen furniture give the rooms character.
Single Room, Cosy Room, Deluxe Room, Master Room, Family Room, Family Suite
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi
The menu caters to a range of budgets and tastes, but local produce is the star across the board. We loved the grilled on-the-bone Dorset sirloin steak with hand-cut chips and béarnaise sauce.
The Bull: traditional British pub with restaurant. Dishes include fish and chips, pork chop and fillet steak. All-day menu, open daily. Mains from £14.
The Pizzeria: stable-turned restaurant, rustic charm. Authentic pizzas and craft beers, served daily.
To view Booking.com’s supplier’s terms and conditions click here.