Knoll House – Dorset’s Hidden Gem

Looking to get away to a fantastic hotel with a rich history and some incredible walking in the surrounding countryside? Knoll House, the iconic British hotel and Enid Blyton’s inspiration for The Famous Five novels, could be your next favourite destination.

Situated on the Isle of Purbeck, across from millionaire’s row in Sandbanks, Dorset, Knoll House is surrounded by thousands of acres of unspoilt wilderness. It’s an ideal location for those who enjoy the great outdoors, with the 630-mile long South West Coastal Path starting just in front of Knoll House at Shell Bay.

A leisurely four-mile amble will take you to Old Harry Rocks and the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whie loser to home, a feast of trails weave through National Trust woodland and nature reserves. Direct access onto the four mile stretch of award-winning sandy Studland Beach is possible from the hotel’s grounds, where watersports and sunbathing await in the summer months.

Knoll House has welcomed notable guests including Sir Winston Churchill, Roald Dahl, and Sir Richard Branson, but the hotel’s most famous resident was children’s author Enid Blyton. As her beach-view bolthole during the 1950s and 60s, Blyton would visit Knoll for weeks at a time. It’s still possible to stay in her favourite room (number 40) or dine at her preferred table, views from both of which provided inspiration for her Famous Five novels.

Acquired by progressive resort management company Kingfisher Resorts, this iconic destination has opened its doors to non-resident hotel guests for the first time in 70 years with the addition of an informal Bistro. Open to all, Knoll House’s new Bistro will showcase an appetising lunch menu of well-loved English dishes with a modern twist. Ingredients are sourced from Dorset suppliers, jams and chutneys from Lily’s produce, while the signature Afternoon Tea remains a firm favourite and can be accompanied by a collection of imported coffees and teas.

The 71-bedroom property not only boasts incredible surroundings, but also fantastic facilities, with an indoor 20’ plunge pool, steam room, gym, heated outdoor pool, children’s playground, tennis courts, a nine-hole pitch and putt golf course and the only helipad in the area. Inspired by its history for unparalleled family-friendly hospitality, Knoll House provides impeccable service and aims to bring home from home comforts to the traditional hotel stay.

Knoll House is offering a range of fun festive fun packages over the holiday season:

Christmas Celebration – After the madness that December always brings with present shopping, school nativities and festive celebrations, slow down and enjoy the delights of a family Christmas and let someone else do all the hard work! From £1,140 for a three night package.

Recharger Break – Two and three-night Recharger Break rates are inclusive of breakfast and dinner. Rates from £280 for a two-night package, based upon two adults sharing.

New Year Escape – Ensure a truly memorable start to 2018, with a two or three-night package. New Year’s Masquerade Stay from £499.

For more information, go to: https://www.knollhouse.co.uk/