The Place
A handsome Jacobean Dorset country house modernized in the early 20thC, Plumber Manor has been in the Prideaux-Brune family for well over 400 years. Since 1973, Richard and Alison have been running it as an elegant but relaxed restaurant with comfortable bedrooms. The family has carefully preserved the home’s 17th-century charm during a sensitive refurbishment programme, which has seen bedrooms and bathrooms refreshed, while the main house retains a traditional feel with antiques and open fires.
Head chef Louis, who is responsible for the highly-regarded food, draws in restaurant customers from far and wide – expect plenty of bustle on Friday and Saturday evenings, and non-residents in the dining room. Sunday lunches are also extremely popular.
Old family portraits hang in the house; labradors lounge in the bar; the decoration is homely and comfortable rather than smart. The large bar area might detract from the feeling of a family home, but it helps the Prideaux-Brunes´ operation in a practical way (shooting parties are a feature in winter).
Bedrooms, of which there are sixteen, are divided between those in the main house and those in a converted stone barn and courtyard building, which overlook the extensive gardens and surrounding Dorset countryside. They are all spacious and comfortable.
A recent review described Plumber as ‘a unique and magical experience in a home that has been cherished and treasured over generations of our hosts’ family’. “They went beyond great service providing true hospitality, with delicious food and facilities of timeless charm,” they added.