The Seaside Boarding House

A playful mix of Edward Hopper’s Cape Cod and Edwardian seaside hotel, this white-painted villa above Chesil Beach has an easy-going stylishness, conducive to fun. ‘The sunset over the sea was spectacular,' wrote a reader, who sat outside to watch nature at its best while staff took them pots of tea and blankets. Owners Mary-Lou Sturridge and Tony Mackintosh, who created London’s Groucho Club, have filled the cool, stripped-down interiors with marine salvage, seascapes, Peter Blake prints and antique-shop booty, but no TVs. ‘Bright, light, seasidey rooms’ all have some view of the coast, a retro dial phone and radio, a walk-in shower or claw-footed bath. ‘The rooms are excellent – superb, large bed.' 'We had two basins in our bathroom.' 'There was no tea and coffee tray but you could order morning tea.' In the restaurant and on the terrace, with views over Lyme Bay, short, appealing menus might include John Dory, charred lemon, herb butter or perhaps lamb rack with spiced lentils. 'Our meal was excellent… we drank local pinot noir.' ‘Charming staff. We would stay again.’ (JB, and others)