Business Details
46 Years
experience
Luxury Country House Hotel in Dorset | Summer Lodge
Summer Lodge Hotel is a distinguished Georgian property nestled in the picturesque village of Evershot, West Dorset. As part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, we combine historic charm with modern luxury, offering guests an unparalleled experience since 1980. Our team, many of whom have served for over 15 years, delivers exceptional hospitality rooted in local traditions and sustainability. We pride ourselves on cultivating our own produce, reducing environmental impact, and sourcing exclusively from regional suppliers. The hotel features individually designed guest rooms, award-winning dining, a rejuvenating spa, and curated experiences ranging from culinary journeys to outdoor adventures.Our commitment to excellence has earned us recognition as a world-class destination where every detail reflects Dorset's natural beauty and heritage. The Drawing Room, designed by Thomas Hardy, and our partnerships with local artisans further enrich our guests' stays. With proximity to the Jurassic Coast and tailored services for families, weddings, and events, we ensure memorable visits that blend elegance, warmth, and innovation.
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Fine Dining
Spa Treatments
Wedding Venues
Countryside Activities
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer 45 years of expertise in luxury hospitality since 1980
- Our team members average 15+ years of service experience
- We maintain a 100% locally sourced produce policy for menus
- Our sustainability initiatives include zero plastic policy and kitchen gardens
- We provide exclusive access to Thomas Hardy's architectural legacy
What people say
Impeccable service
Beautifully maintained gardens
Outstanding local cuisine
Charming historic architecture
Dedicated staff
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Our individually designed guest rooms and suites combine historic charm with modern comforts. Each space features bespoke furnishings, luxury amenities, and thoughtful touches like warmed linens and homemade shortbread. Private cottages offer additional privacy with features including hot tubs and private dining facilities, all set within four acres of landscaped gardens.
Fine Dining
The Michelin-starred restaurant showcases seasonal menus using estate-grown produce and local Dorset ingredients. Guests enjoy traditional afternoon tea in the Thomas Hardy-designed Drawing Room, complemented by an extensive wine list featuring regional vineyards and curated dining experiences throughout the year.
Spa Treatments
The spa offers rejuvenating treatments using natural products, featuring a heated indoor pool and beauty therapies. Seasonal packages include wellness journeys tailored to individual needs, with expert therapists providing personalized care in a tranquil setting surrounded by Dorset countryside.
Wedding Venues
The hotel provides exclusive wedding venues with bespoke planning services. From intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations, our spaces include historic rooms and gardens, supported by award-winning catering and accommodation packages for up to 100 guests.
Countryside Activities
Guided experiences include equestrian activities, shooting, fishing, and golf. Guests can explore local trails by bicycle, enjoy croquet on the lawn, or participate in seasonal events like Christmas wreath workshops and Thomas Hardy literary tours.
People
Alex Mackenzie
General Manager
General Manager since 2017, Alex brings extensive hospitality experience having worked at Summer Lodge since 2003. Committed to sustainability and exceptional guest experiences, she leads with a focus on preserving the hotel's heritage while innovating service standards.
Jack Mackenzie
General Manager
Co-General Manager since 2017, Jack has over 20 years hospitality expertise. Together with Alex, he maintains the hotel's legacy of excellence while implementing modern sustainability practices and ensuring personalized guest service remains paramount.
Robin Andrews
Head Gardener
As Head Gardener, Robin manages the hotel's kitchen gardens and polytunnels, supplying fresh produce for the restaurant. His expertise ensures year-round sustainability and enhances the property's award-winning landscaping.
Questions
What accommodation options are available at Summer Lodge?
We offer individually designed guest rooms, suites, and private cottages including Beas Cottage with dining facilities and Ivy Cottage with hot tub access.
Does the hotel provide dining experiences?
Our Michelin-starred restaurant showcases Dorset produce, complemented by traditional afternoon tea in the Thomas Hardy-designed Drawing Room.
What wellness facilities are available?
The hotel features a heated indoor pool, spa treatments, and beauty therapies with seasonal wellness packages available.
Can the hotel host special events?
We offer wedding venues, Christmas parties, and corporate events with bespoke planning and seasonal menus.
What sustainability initiatives are in place?
We maintain kitchen gardens, use 100% local suppliers, eliminate plastics, and operate beehives to support environmental conservation.
What nearby attractions are accessible?
The Jurassic Coast is 25 minutes away, with local activities including guided walks, vineyard tours, and balloon safaris available.
Reviews (5)
Ras Gohil
Dec 10, 2021
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Fantastic hotel. Fantastic people Fantastic food . Really made us welcome...nothing was too much trouble. We stayed in the Ivy Cottage and it was a perfect quaint little cottage. Absolutely recommend this place
Robert Barnard-Smith
Oct 26, 2021
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Fabulous in every regard. Lovely way to spend our anniversary. Great option to dine at their local pub The Acorn as well. Thanks very much. Cheers RBS
Bob D.
Oct 26, 2021
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A charming hotel. Service was friendly and on point. The food was also excellent. Recommend the breakfast in the glassed in dining room.
T. T.
Oct 24, 2021
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Great place to stay, peace and quiet, delicious and exquisite food. The wine list is impressive. The hotel staff is really nice. I would recommend this place to anyone
Chloe Jade
Jul 17, 2021
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Absolutely fantastic Spa day and cream tea, staff were very polite and attentive, made me feel very welcome, nothing was too much trouble, the massage I received was perfect, and I thought the pricing was reasonable for what I received, I will definitely be returning and recommending.
