Inside, The Eastbury is the picture of quintessential British style. A muted colour palette punctuated with punches of colour, cosy sitting rooms filled with tasteful knick knacks warmed by a roaring fire, chequered drapes adds warmth to the bright hallway, while a deep green wallpaper gives the private dining room some panache.
We experienced the hotel’s doggy getaway package and stayed in one of the new Victorian Garden Potting Shed rooms. Don’t be fooled by the rustic-sounding name because these suites are the epitome of cosy, pastoral chic. The Potting Shed rooms each have their own mini courtyard, a retractable light roof, heated floors, generously-sized bathroom, sitting area, tri-folding glass doors and your very own carafe of Sloe Gin (something any frequent visitor to any of Peter de Savary’s properties – would be all too familiar with).
While the rooms and suites in the main house boast a more classic style, the Victorian Garden Potting Shed, located in The Eastbury’s beautiful walled gardens, offer a more contemporary touch. Your four-legged companions can rest in their own Bunty dog beds and can enjoy their own food and water bowls – which was filled with tasty treats.
Beyond the Potting Shed, there’s plenty to explore at The Eastbury, starting with the newly-opened spa facilities. Hidden at the bottom of the walled gardens, the spa, with its hobbit-esque façade, offers a relaxing oasis for guests looking to indulge in some me-time. Guests can book one hour exclusive use of the Wet Spa, which includes an outdoor jacuzzi, indoor hydrotherapy tub, sauna, jacuzzi shower, relaxation areas and even an indoor mini-gym.
Those looking take their relaxation to the next level can book a treatment too, All the wonderfully relaxing treatments at The Eastbury use Caudalie products and range from Premier Cru facials to foot reflexology and deep tissue massages.
The fabulously quaint town of Sherborne is just a five minute stroll from the hotel and is proudly one of the most dog friendly villages in the UK. Here, you can visit the wonderful array of independent shops (all dog friendly) sip a cuppa in one of the quirky cafes or enjoy a light meal in one of the many local pubs.
However, if you are looking for a meal that will surely impress, look no further than The Eastbury’s own Seasons restaurant. The two AA Rosette restaurant, which is led by BBC MasterChef’s own Chef Matthew Street, uses only the finest quality ingredients sourced from local British producers. We started our culinary escapade with the Carpaccio of Octopus which offered a sumptuous umami flavours combining Aonori, Katsubushi, Yuzu Mayonnaise and delicate octopus slices. The Devon Crab is a revelation too with Sesame Tuille, Tobiko Caviar and Kohlrabi.
For mains, the Baharat Roast Lamb, flavoured with Labneh and Chermoula and paired with Tahini Cauliflower had a subtle kick and was cooked to perfection. For desserts, the Salted Peanut Parfait and Chocolate Cremeux are the perfect sugary finish to a fabulous meal. Seasons also boasts an extensive wine list, curated from Peter de Savary’s own private collection. Pampered pooches are treated like true VIPS at The Eastbury as the hotel offers dog dinners and breakfasts too.
After dinner, head over to the stylish, dimly-lit bar for a nightcap and be serenaded with live piano music — a soothing conclusion to what has been yet another wonderful stay at The Eastbury, a true luxury countryside retreat.
