Sleeping Bear Hotels Dorchester
From
$77
/ night
Select dates to see prices and availability
From
$77
/ night
About this property
This smoke-free hotel features hiking/biking trails nearby.
Amenities
This smoke-free hotel features hiking/biking trails nearby.
Business amenities
Featured amenities include express check-in, luggage storage, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Planning an event in Dorchester? This hotel has 818 square feet (76 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room.
Rooms
Stay in one of 29 guestrooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with premium bedding. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.
Location
With a stay at Sleeping Bear Hotel Dorchester, you'll be centrally located in Dorchester, within a 15-minute drive of Weymouth Beach and Weymouth Harbour. This hotel is 7.7 mi (12.4 km) from Dorset and East Devon Coast and 12.8 mi (20.5 km) from Durdle Door Beach.
What's nearby
Tutankhamun: The Exhibition(0.1 miles)
Borough Gardens(0.1 miles)
The Keep Military Museum(0.1 miles)
Roman Town House(0.2 miles)
Dinosaur Museum(0.4 miles)
Terracotta Warriors Museum(0.4 miles)
Dorset Teddy Bear Museum(0.4 miles)
Maumbury Rings(0.6 miles)
The Avenue Stadium(1.2 miles)
Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty(1.3 miles)
Hardy Literary Locations(1.3 miles)
Max Gate(1.3 miles)
Kingston Maurward Park and Gardens(2 miles)
Maiden Castle(2.7 miles)
Hardy's Cottage(3 miles)
Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.)(30.4 miles)
Bristol International Airport (BRS)(61.7 miles)
Non-Smoking Rooms
Housekeeping
Banquet Facilities
Luggage Storage
Designated Smoking Area
Express Check-In/Check-Out
Location
32 High West Street, Dorchester, England, United Kingdom
Tutankhamun: The Exhibition (0.1 miles)
Borough Gardens (0.1 miles)
The Keep Military Museum (0.1 miles)
Roman Town House (0.2 miles)
Dinosaur Museum (0.4 miles)
Terracotta Warriors Museum (0.4 miles)
Guest reviews
9.2
Superb
Based on 599 verified reviews
What guests think
AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Sleeping Bear Hotels Dorchester earns praise for friendly, helpful staff, clean and comfortable rooms, and a central high‑street location close to restaurants and sights, though several reviews flag limited, paid parking that typically needs pre‑booking.
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What guests think
Sleeping Bear Hotels Dorchester earns praise for friendly, helpful staff, clean and comfortable rooms, and a central high‑street location close to restaurants and sights, though several reviews flag limited, paid parking that typically needs pre‑booking.
Guests appreciate the lounge and bar with complimentary hot drinks, while on‑site meals—especially breakfast—are unavailable or inconsistent, so many opt for nearby cafes and restaurants. Room drawbacks mentioned across reviews include some road noise or thin walls, occasional very warm top‑floor or eaves rooms without air‑conditioning, and uneven floors typical of the historic building. A sensible pick, with clear trade‑offs around parking and on‑site dining.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Facilities
Facilities center on a lounge/bar with complimentary hot drinks. On‑site parking is very limited and paid, often requiring pre‑booking, and there is no lift in this older building.
Related guest reviews
10
Gabriella
Mar 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A wonderful stay in a spacious room with excellent in room facilites. The wonderful surprise was the upgrade to our room, and the free access to complimentary teas and coffees in the lounge. If you wanted food from outside you could use the lounge for that take away. The staff were super friendly and helpful. Parking needs to be booked on site prior to arrival but there is a local parking only 5 minutes walk away that is convenient.
A wonderful stay in a spacious room with excellent in room facilites. The wonderful surprise was the upgrade to our room, and the free access to complimentary teas and coffees in the lounge. If you wanted food from outside you could use the lounge for that take away. The staff were super friendly and helpful. Parking needs to be booked on site prior to arrival but there is a local parking only 5 minutes walk away that is convenient.
8
Robert
Oct 6, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
The bar was well stocked, I can not comment on the parking as we got the train. The staff were very friendly and helpful
The bar was well stocked, I can not comment on the parking as we got the train. The staff were very friendly and helpful
10
Trevor
Sep 21, 2025
·
Stayed 6 nights
The room was clean and comfortable and the staff were friendly. The lounge area was also comfortable. The parking area is somewhat restricted.
The room was clean and comfortable and the staff were friendly. The lounge area was also comfortable. The parking area is somewhat restricted.
10
Marcus
Jul 1, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We booked this stay through hotels.com and communications were good, especially the option to pre book parking as spaces were limited in the parking area behind the hotel. Check in was pleasant and we were shown to our 3 nice rooms, all a good size, nicely decorated and with modern bathrooms (although I do loathe shower curtains!) and a nice desk to work at. There were kettles in each room with plenty of tea and coffee options. Although the hotel does not do food there are plenty of options within a few minutes walk and we ate dinner at Kao San Thai, just opposite. There were a couple of guest lounge areas with free tea/coffee facilities and also a bar for the evening. Prices on the Saturday night were expensive but the Sunday night was far more reasonable. Wi-Fi was very good and the rooms were quiet, other than seagulls! The hotel was a good location, both for walking to Dorchester's attractions and exploring the wider area.
We booked this stay through hotels.com and communications were good, especially the option to pre book parking as spaces were limited in the parking area behind the hotel. Check in was pleasant and we were shown to our 3 nice rooms, all a good size, nicely decorated and with modern bathrooms (although I do loathe shower curtains!) and a nice desk to work at. There were kettles in each room with plenty of tea and coffee options. Although the hotel does not do food there are plenty of options within a few minutes walk and we ate dinner at Kao San Thai, just opposite. There were a couple of guest lounge areas with free tea/coffee facilities and also a bar for the evening. Prices on the Saturday night were expensive but the Sunday night was far more reasonable. Wi-Fi was very good and the rooms were quiet, other than seagulls! The hotel was a good location, both for walking to Dorchester's attractions and exploring the wider area.
6
Jeffrey
May 10, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
The Best Western Wessex Royale is a beautiful hotel. Although we didn't dine there, the dining area looked very nicely appointed. Our great disappointment was that the room that was available at the time we made our booking, was on the third floor and there is not a lift. The various staircases to get up the approximate 50 steps, were very narrow and with our luggage, were extremely challenging.
The Best Western Wessex Royale is a beautiful hotel. Although we didn't dine there, the dining area looked very nicely appointed. Our great disappointment was that the room that was available at the time we made our booking, was on the third floor and there is not a lift. The various staircases to get up the approximate 50 steps, were very narrow and with our luggage, were extremely challenging.
10
David
Jan 13, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Parking was easy and secure. Room was clean. Did not use bar
Parking was easy and secure. Room was clean. Did not use bar
8
Terence
Apr 7, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Excellent Room. Very clean and comfortable. Not happy about price of parking in hotel car park, nor the fact that it is stated as £15 per night but when it comes to paying, another £1.49 is billed. This practice should be outlawed. The total fee should always be made clear before committing to payment!
Excellent Room. Very clean and comfortable. Not happy about price of parking in hotel car park, nor the fact that it is stated as £15 per night but when it comes to paying, another £1.49 is billed. This practice should be outlawed. The total fee should always be made clear before committing to payment!
8
Paul
May 28, 2024
·
Stayed 5 nights
Very convenient location in downtown Dorchester, good for walking trips around the town. Several museums and historical sites nearby. Very friendly, helpful staff. Nice restaurant for breakfast (no lunch or dinner service). Several restaurant very nearby, easy walk. HOWEVER, very tiny parking lot (accessible from a side street) which can accomodate a maximum of 9 small UK sized cars, so it is easy to find ot full. A large public parking lot is a couple blocks away, and it is possible to find nearby street parking.
Very convenient location in downtown Dorchester, good for walking trips around the town. Several museums and historical sites nearby. Very friendly, helpful staff. Nice restaurant for breakfast (no lunch or dinner service). Several restaurant very nearby, easy walk. HOWEVER, very tiny parking lot (accessible from a side street) which can accomodate a maximum of 9 small UK sized cars, so it is easy to find ot full. A large public parking lot is a couple blocks away, and it is possible to find nearby street parking.
10
Gary
Apr 8, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Loved the hotel, but do prebook parking behind the hotel, as only 10 spaces
Loved the hotel, but do prebook parking behind the hotel, as only 10 spaces
10
Claire
Apr 12, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Having booked our parking through Just Park, we received excellent directions to the limited spaces at the rear of the hotel. (The satnav wanted to send us elsewhere!) We were welcomed, offered assistance with our baggage and directed to our room. We had selected a Superior Room as we were celebrating an anniversary and found ourselves (after a long and winding walk along a corridor whose floor was a little uneven in places - showing the history of the building) in a suite! Very nice (although the sofa is not particularly comfortable to sit on). The bedroom was large, with a very comfortable bed, a desk a chair and plenty of drawers to store your clothes. The ‘wardrobe’ is off the sitting area. 2 very large TVs and a lovely, large, well appointed bathroom. It suited us very well. No breakfast, but plenty of advice on options nearby. On checkout, I discovered that, although the message I had received from Hotels.com had stated (as per my selection on booking) that I would pay at the hotel, payment had been taken 2 days previously. It was explained that this was the policy of the hotel. I have no problem with this - but I do think that Hotels.com should reflect this in their booking confirmation. All in all, it suited us very well.
Having booked our parking through Just Park, we received excellent directions to the limited spaces at the rear of the hotel. (The satnav wanted to send us elsewhere!) We were welcomed, offered assistance with our baggage and directed to our room. We had selected a Superior Room as we were celebrating an anniversary and found ourselves (after a long and winding walk along a corridor whose floor was a little uneven in places - showing the history of the building) in a suite! Very nice (although the sofa is not particularly comfortable to sit on). The bedroom was large, with a very comfortable bed, a desk a chair and plenty of drawers to store your clothes. The ‘wardrobe’ is off the sitting area. 2 very large TVs and a lovely, large, well appointed bathroom. It suited us very well. No breakfast, but plenty of advice on options nearby. On checkout, I discovered that, although the message I had received from Hotels.com had stated (as per my selection on booking) that I would pay at the hotel, payment had been taken 2 days previously. It was explained that this was the policy of the hotel. I have no problem with this - but I do think that Hotels.com should reflect this in their booking confirmation. All in all, it suited us very well.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Cleanliness
Reviews consistently note very clean, well‑kept rooms and common areas. A few minor lapses were mentioned, but overall cleanliness and upkeep are praised.
Related guest reviews
10
Mark
Apr 28, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Very clean, comfortable room. Pretty quiet considering Main Street location. There’s no food available but space provided to eat your own if you want and plenty of tea and coffee in the lounge. Stayed on a Sunday so it was cheaper price - not sure if it’s worth top dollar but it’s a nicely done place.
Very clean, comfortable room. Pretty quiet considering Main Street location. There’s no food available but space provided to eat your own if you want and plenty of tea and coffee in the lounge. Stayed on a Sunday so it was cheaper price - not sure if it’s worth top dollar but it’s a nicely done place.
8
Sophie
May 29, 2023
·
Stayed 2 nights
Really really nice hotel, design and layout is lovely, staff are super friendly and helpful. Not much parking but staff did explain where could park if any issues so that was sorted fine and room was rather small for the price we paid but maybe thats because it was a bank holiday weekend. But overall would definitely stay again, very clean very nice staff and the hotel itself was stunning. Especially the big open staircase
Really really nice hotel, design and layout is lovely, staff are super friendly and helpful. Not much parking but staff did explain where could park if any issues so that was sorted fine and room was rather small for the price we paid but maybe thats because it was a bank holiday weekend. But overall would definitely stay again, very clean very nice staff and the hotel itself was stunning. Especially the big open staircase
10
Peter
Dec 31, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
A great hotel in the heart of Dorchester, rooms are large, clean with tea and a coffee machine, bottled water and biscuits. There is also tea and coffe available free of charge near reception for guests. There is also a bar. All staff are friendly and helpful. Parking is limited on site and quite expensive, less expensive options available across the road. No breakfast available in the hotel but they give recommendations for cafes in town. Great value for money.
A great hotel in the heart of Dorchester, rooms are large, clean with tea and a coffee machine, bottled water and biscuits. There is also tea and coffe available free of charge near reception for guests. There is also a bar. All staff are friendly and helpful. Parking is limited on site and quite expensive, less expensive options available across the road. No breakfast available in the hotel but they give recommendations for cafes in town. Great value for money.
8
Alison
May 13, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Good stay. The room and bathroom were clean and the linen nice. However the room was compact and the limited storage was full of blankets and pillows. There was a portable suitcase stand but literally no where to put it. The biggest problem was being woken on the first morning by noise in the car park and the second morning by the noice from the shower in the next room, it was extremely loud. The staff were fantastic. Very friendly and helpful.
Good stay. The room and bathroom were clean and the linen nice. However the room was compact and the limited storage was full of blankets and pillows. There was a portable suitcase stand but literally no where to put it. The biggest problem was being woken on the first morning by noise in the car park and the second morning by the noice from the shower in the next room, it was extremely loud. The staff were fantastic. Very friendly and helpful.
10
Trevor
Sep 21, 2025
·
Stayed 6 nights
The room was clean and comfortable and the staff were friendly. The lounge area was also comfortable. The parking area is somewhat restricted.
The room was clean and comfortable and the staff were friendly. The lounge area was also comfortable. The parking area is somewhat restricted.
8
Hayley
Jul 6, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Stayed at the sleeping bear as we were visiting lulworth cove for my birthday. Pre paid and booked a parking space at the hotel. Very comfortable bed and unlimited tea and coffee at all hours. Nicely decorated and felt homely and comfortable. A random sock from the previous guest left in our room, although hard to see in the cleaners defence! Good shower and tv in room. Would stay again.
Stayed at the sleeping bear as we were visiting lulworth cove for my birthday. Pre paid and booked a parking space at the hotel. Very comfortable bed and unlimited tea and coffee at all hours. Nicely decorated and felt homely and comfortable. A random sock from the previous guest left in our room, although hard to see in the cleaners defence! Good shower and tv in room. Would stay again.
10
John
Oct 10, 2023
·
Stayed 1 night
Very nice hotel. Exceptional cleanliness and great staff.
Very nice hotel. Exceptional cleanliness and great staff.
10
julia
Sep 27, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely clean room with a very comfortable mattress. Had a fantastic night's sleep.
Lovely clean room with a very comfortable mattress. Had a fantastic night's sleep.
8
Paul
Feb 17, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
On arrival we were greeted with a warm a friendly welcome. The hotel was very well presented with wonderful decor and charm. Our rooms were lovely very clean and organised with amazing comfortable beds. Thank you to Lisa and the rest of the team.
On arrival we were greeted with a warm a friendly welcome. The hotel was very well presented with wonderful decor and charm. Our rooms were lovely very clean and organised with amazing comfortable beds. Thank you to Lisa and the rest of the team.
10
Nicci
Feb 5, 2026
·
Stayed 3 nights
Clean, warm room. Felt happy and safe as a lone-female traveller. Close to plenty of choice of food outlets.
Clean, warm room. Felt happy and safe as a lone-female traveller. Close to plenty of choice of food outlets.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Rooms
Rooms are generally comfortable, many described as spacious with modern bathrooms and good beds. Downsides noted include some noise (road or thin walls), very warm top‑floor/eaves rooms without AC, uneven floors, and a few compact layouts.
Related guest reviews
2
Brenda
May 26, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
I booked here because of the reviews, and I am starting to think these people writing the reviews are either friends of the hotel staff, or they stayed at a different hotel, and gave this one a good review in error. Out of all the hotels we stayed at in the UK, this was the absolute worst. We stayed at a top floor room, that was absolutely stifling, without AC, and had a small window that the fan couldn't even fit in. The bed felt like a cement slab and the foot of the bed was higher than the head of the bed. Most of the room had a slanted wall, which made it difficult to walk around. Parking was ok if you are lucky to get one of the few spots available. The ONLY saving grace of this place was the woman at the Reception Desk. She was WONDERFUL. I get the feeling she is under-appreciated because she was not only Checking people in, but she was also making drinks at the bar. Other than that, I would never stay here again, and the people leaving the good reviews, maybe have lower standards than I do, The price I paid for this place, I deserved better.
I booked here because of the reviews, and I am starting to think these people writing the reviews are either friends of the hotel staff, or they stayed at a different hotel, and gave this one a good review in error. Out of all the hotels we stayed at in the UK, this was the absolute worst. We stayed at a top floor room, that was absolutely stifling, without AC, and had a small window that the fan couldn't even fit in. The bed felt like a cement slab and the foot of the bed was higher than the head of the bed. Most of the room had a slanted wall, which made it difficult to walk around. Parking was ok if you are lucky to get one of the few spots available. The ONLY saving grace of this place was the woman at the Reception Desk. She was WONDERFUL. I get the feeling she is under-appreciated because she was not only Checking people in, but she was also making drinks at the bar. Other than that, I would never stay here again, and the people leaving the good reviews, maybe have lower standards than I do, The price I paid for this place, I deserved better.
10
Adrian
Sep 23, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Room beautifully appointed and comfortable. Bathroom really spacious and well designed. Well lit
Room beautifully appointed and comfortable. Bathroom really spacious and well designed. Well lit
10
Marcus
Jul 1, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
We booked this stay through hotels.com and communications were good, especially the option to pre book parking as spaces were limited in the parking area behind the hotel. Check in was pleasant and we were shown to our 3 nice rooms, all a good size, nicely decorated and with modern bathrooms (although I do loathe shower curtains!) and a nice desk to work at. There were kettles in each room with plenty of tea and coffee options. Although the hotel does not do food there are plenty of options within a few minutes walk and we ate dinner at Kao San Thai, just opposite. There were a couple of guest lounge areas with free tea/coffee facilities and also a bar for the evening. Prices on the Saturday night were expensive but the Sunday night was far more reasonable. Wi-Fi was very good and the rooms were quiet, other than seagulls! The hotel was a good location, both for walking to Dorchester's attractions and exploring the wider area.
We booked this stay through hotels.com and communications were good, especially the option to pre book parking as spaces were limited in the parking area behind the hotel. Check in was pleasant and we were shown to our 3 nice rooms, all a good size, nicely decorated and with modern bathrooms (although I do loathe shower curtains!) and a nice desk to work at. There were kettles in each room with plenty of tea and coffee options. Although the hotel does not do food there are plenty of options within a few minutes walk and we ate dinner at Kao San Thai, just opposite. There were a couple of guest lounge areas with free tea/coffee facilities and also a bar for the evening. Prices on the Saturday night were expensive but the Sunday night was far more reasonable. Wi-Fi was very good and the rooms were quiet, other than seagulls! The hotel was a good location, both for walking to Dorchester's attractions and exploring the wider area.
8
Richard
May 5, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A convenient overnight stop for our trip to Cornwall. Hotel was in a great position, close to en excellent Italian restaurant. Our rom was large and the bed was super comfortable. The bathroom was also large with a bath and a separate walk in shower. I would comment that you have to book parking through JustPark, at £15 per night! This seems rather excessive in a small town. There is also NO restaurant as mentioned in the details although there are tea/coffee making facilities in the room and downstairs near the bar.
A convenient overnight stop for our trip to Cornwall. Hotel was in a great position, close to en excellent Italian restaurant. Our rom was large and the bed was super comfortable. The bathroom was also large with a bath and a separate walk in shower. I would comment that you have to book parking through JustPark, at £15 per night! This seems rather excessive in a small town. There is also NO restaurant as mentioned in the details although there are tea/coffee making facilities in the room and downstairs near the bar.
10
massimo
Feb 1, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Excellent spacious room, supportive and friendly staff. It is very useful to have a microwave in the breakfast room, especially for professionals who are always in a rush. Thank you. See you next time I need to work, @Dorch.
Excellent spacious room, supportive and friendly staff. It is very useful to have a microwave in the breakfast room, especially for professionals who are always in a rush. Thank you. See you next time I need to work, @Dorch.
8
Andrew
Mar 16, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Hotel itself was nice and in a good location for an event we were going to. There isn't much sound proofing between rooms so can be a little noisy at times.
Hotel itself was nice and in a good location for an event we were going to. There isn't much sound proofing between rooms so can be a little noisy at times.
10
Dale
Aug 4, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Apart from noisy creaking floorboards and thin walls, no complaints.
Apart from noisy creaking floorboards and thin walls, no complaints.
2
Dawn
Aug 31, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Couldn’t stay in the room, the small window and lack of light up in the eaves provoked a panic attack. Had to leave.
Couldn’t stay in the room, the small window and lack of light up in the eaves provoked a panic attack. Had to leave.
8
Patrick
Jul 7, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Hotel is an old building that was renovated to modern standards. The room was nice. As it didn't have air conditioning the downside was only one window in our room could be opened as the other didn't work. Alsothe floor was uneven as it probably was not leveled but just covered with new carpet. The renovated bathroom was first class though.
Hotel is an old building that was renovated to modern standards. The room was nice. As it didn't have air conditioning the downside was only one window in our room could be opened as the other didn't work. Alsothe floor was uneven as it probably was not leveled but just covered with new carpet. The renovated bathroom was first class though.
10
Claire
Apr 12, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Having booked our parking through Just Park, we received excellent directions to the limited spaces at the rear of the hotel. (The satnav wanted to send us elsewhere!) We were welcomed, offered assistance with our baggage and directed to our room. We had selected a Superior Room as we were celebrating an anniversary and found ourselves (after a long and winding walk along a corridor whose floor was a little uneven in places - showing the history of the building) in a suite! Very nice (although the sofa is not particularly comfortable to sit on). The bedroom was large, with a very comfortable bed, a desk a chair and plenty of drawers to store your clothes. The ‘wardrobe’ is off the sitting area. 2 very large TVs and a lovely, large, well appointed bathroom. It suited us very well. No breakfast, but plenty of advice on options nearby. On checkout, I discovered that, although the message I had received from Hotels.com had stated (as per my selection on booking) that I would pay at the hotel, payment had been taken 2 days previously. It was explained that this was the policy of the hotel. I have no problem with this - but I do think that Hotels.com should reflect this in their booking confirmation. All in all, it suited us very well.
Having booked our parking through Just Park, we received excellent directions to the limited spaces at the rear of the hotel. (The satnav wanted to send us elsewhere!) We were welcomed, offered assistance with our baggage and directed to our room. We had selected a Superior Room as we were celebrating an anniversary and found ourselves (after a long and winding walk along a corridor whose floor was a little uneven in places - showing the history of the building) in a suite! Very nice (although the sofa is not particularly comfortable to sit on). The bedroom was large, with a very comfortable bed, a desk a chair and plenty of drawers to store your clothes. The ‘wardrobe’ is off the sitting area. 2 very large TVs and a lovely, large, well appointed bathroom. It suited us very well. No breakfast, but plenty of advice on options nearby. On checkout, I discovered that, although the message I had received from Hotels.com had stated (as per my selection on booking) that I would pay at the hotel, payment had been taken 2 days previously. It was explained that this was the policy of the hotel. I have no problem with this - but I do think that Hotels.com should reflect this in their booking confirmation. All in all, it suited us very well.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Service
Service is frequently praised as friendly, welcoming and helpful, including assistance with late check‑ins and parking. A few guests noted minor check‑in or booking issues, but overall impressions are very positive.
Related guest reviews
10
Rose
Jul 6, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Quiet, clean, safe & friendly staff. Would 100% stay here again.
Quiet, clean, safe & friendly staff. Would 100% stay here again.
10
scott
Jun 17, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
i was struggling to get a taxi for sunday morning and the receptionist got one straight away excellent service
i was struggling to get a taxi for sunday morning and the receptionist got one straight away excellent service
10
Natalie
Jul 13, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very friendly staff and a well looked after hotel, good location for walking into town with nearby restaurants.
Very friendly staff and a well looked after hotel, good location for walking into town with nearby restaurants.
10
Sophia
Jan 27, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
The staff were very helpful and accommodating. Lovely warm atmosphere and they have alternative to milk !
The staff were very helpful and accommodating. Lovely warm atmosphere and they have alternative to milk !
8
Catherine
Nov 2, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great location. Staff friendly.
Great location. Staff friendly.
10
Ryan
Jan 26, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
The lady working on reception provided fantastic service.
The lady working on reception provided fantastic service.
6
M
Jul 15, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Checkin was not great. I had booked 4 rooms. Three of the guests were named but the fourth was not specified. I made an assumption that all four rooms would be booked under my name but on arrival the receptionist said there were only two rooms under my name. The other two were booked under the named guests which the receptionist found difficult to locate. Also, there was very scant parking and the bar was expensive.
Checkin was not great. I had booked 4 rooms. Three of the guests were named but the fourth was not specified. I made an assumption that all four rooms would be booked under my name but on arrival the receptionist said there were only two rooms under my name. The other two were booked under the named guests which the receptionist found difficult to locate. Also, there was very scant parking and the bar was expensive.
10
Andrew
Jun 8, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Staff are very friendly and helpful. We were staying there for a live action role playing event and the staff were impressed with our costumes. Second time staying here in Dorchester, fully recommend.
Staff are very friendly and helpful. We were staying there for a live action role playing event and the staff were impressed with our costumes. Second time staying here in Dorchester, fully recommend.
10
Sarah
Oct 28, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely staff.
Lovely staff.
8
Veerakumar
Feb 9, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Room was great. Staff support during out of hours great. Their care and guidance to check in after work hours was great. Definitely recommend it
Room was great. Staff support during out of hours great. Their care and guidance to check in after work hours was great. Definitely recommend it
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Location
Central high‑street location is convenient for walking to restaurants, attractions and the train station. Some guests reported traffic or street noise in front‑facing rooms.
Related guest reviews
10
Jess
Jan 1, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely little hotel. Everything you need. Walking distance into town
Lovely little hotel. Everything you need. Walking distance into town
10
massimo
Jan 18, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Excellent location and facilities for weekend, very supportive manager .
Excellent location and facilities for weekend, very supportive manager .
8
Catherine
Nov 2, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great location. Staff friendly.
Great location. Staff friendly.
8
Francoise
May 10, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Très bon hôtel, un peu bruyant sur la rue. Chambre très grande et très confortable. Accueil agréable.
Très bon hôtel, un peu bruyant sur la rue. Chambre très grande et très confortable. Accueil agréable.
8
Giles
Mar 11, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The hotel was clean tidy, and only the occasional noise from other guests moving around the hotel. We had a room at the back, away from the busy main road, so it was very quiet. Situated in the centre of Dorchester, about a 10 minute walk from the train station. A good choice of places to eat nearby.
The hotel was clean tidy, and only the occasional noise from other guests moving around the hotel. We had a room at the back, away from the busy main road, so it was very quiet. Situated in the centre of Dorchester, about a 10 minute walk from the train station. A good choice of places to eat nearby.
10
Pascale
Jul 5, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A lovely hotel in Dorchester located on the high street. No restaurant but so many around us that this was absolutely no issue whatsoever! Very friendly staff, hot drinks available for free, cmfortable room, free overnight car park nearby...we had a lovely stay in this hotel and will definitely stay there next time we are in the area!
A lovely hotel in Dorchester located on the high street. No restaurant but so many around us that this was absolutely no issue whatsoever! Very friendly staff, hot drinks available for free, cmfortable room, free overnight car park nearby...we had a lovely stay in this hotel and will definitely stay there next time we are in the area!
10
Harry
Jun 1, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Lovely hotel, nicely set up and well located for everything in town.
Lovely hotel, nicely set up and well located for everything in town.
8
David
Jul 5, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Nice hotel on the high street, good breakfast and nice lounge/bar area. Only downsides were the bed wasn’t very comfortable and a lot of road noise. I would stay again but facing away from the road.
Nice hotel on the high street, good breakfast and nice lounge/bar area. Only downsides were the bed wasn’t very comfortable and a lot of road noise. I would stay again but facing away from the road.
10
John
Jan 1, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great stay, very comfy, very close to restaurants & town, with convenient parking nearby - not stayed here before but we will be back - Fabulous!
Great stay, very comfy, very close to restaurants & town, with convenient parking nearby - not stayed here before but we will be back - Fabulous!
8
Paul
May 28, 2024
·
Stayed 5 nights
Very convenient location in downtown Dorchester, good for walking trips around the town. Several museums and historical sites nearby. Very friendly, helpful staff. Nice restaurant for breakfast (no lunch or dinner service). Several restaurant very nearby, easy walk. HOWEVER, very tiny parking lot (accessible from a side street) which can accomodate a maximum of 9 small UK sized cars, so it is easy to find ot full. A large public parking lot is a couple blocks away, and it is possible to find nearby street parking.
Very convenient location in downtown Dorchester, good for walking trips around the town. Several museums and historical sites nearby. Very friendly, helpful staff. Nice restaurant for breakfast (no lunch or dinner service). Several restaurant very nearby, easy walk. HOWEVER, very tiny parking lot (accessible from a side street) which can accomodate a maximum of 9 small UK sized cars, so it is easy to find ot full. A large public parking lot is a couple blocks away, and it is possible to find nearby street parking.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Dining
On‑site breakfast and restaurant service appear inconsistent over time: many reviews note no meals available, while others report a good breakfast. Guests commonly use nearby cafes/restaurants or bring takeaway to the lounge/bar.
Related guest reviews
10
Mark
Apr 28, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Very clean, comfortable room. Pretty quiet considering Main Street location. There’s no food available but space provided to eat your own if you want and plenty of tea and coffee in the lounge. Stayed on a Sunday so it was cheaper price - not sure if it’s worth top dollar but it’s a nicely done place.
Very clean, comfortable room. Pretty quiet considering Main Street location. There’s no food available but space provided to eat your own if you want and plenty of tea and coffee in the lounge. Stayed on a Sunday so it was cheaper price - not sure if it’s worth top dollar but it’s a nicely done place.
10
Patricia
Sep 16, 2023
·
Stayed 3 nights
The hotel is very comfortable and clean. The staff were excellent, very friendly and nothing too much trouble. Breakfast was very good with plenty of choice.
The hotel is very comfortable and clean. The staff were excellent, very friendly and nothing too much trouble. Breakfast was very good with plenty of choice.
10
David
Oct 31, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
It was all excellent, the hotel is in great condition and perfectly located to wander around town, on-site parking is a bit limited. There is no food at the Hotel but there are heaps of places to eat within a few minutes walk. The only reason I scored one of the criteria down a bit was the lack of onsite meals, but in reality, and with the abundance of options nearby it really wasn't a concern. .
It was all excellent, the hotel is in great condition and perfectly located to wander around town, on-site parking is a bit limited. There is no food at the Hotel but there are heaps of places to eat within a few minutes walk. The only reason I scored one of the criteria down a bit was the lack of onsite meals, but in reality, and with the abundance of options nearby it really wasn't a concern. .
10
James
Feb 1, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Two night stay visiting for Dorchester Beer festival which was 5 mins walk away. Comfy accommodation. No food but you can bring food in and excellent Wetherspoons 2 mins walk away.
Two night stay visiting for Dorchester Beer festival which was 5 mins walk away. Comfy accommodation. No food but you can bring food in and excellent Wetherspoons 2 mins walk away.
8
Mike
Apr 6, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Lovely hotel - just a shame that breakfast is no longer provided.
Lovely hotel - just a shame that breakfast is no longer provided.
8
Richard
May 5, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
A convenient overnight stop for our trip to Cornwall. Hotel was in a great position, close to en excellent Italian restaurant. Our rom was large and the bed was super comfortable. The bathroom was also large with a bath and a separate walk in shower. I would comment that you have to book parking through JustPark, at £15 per night! This seems rather excessive in a small town. There is also NO restaurant as mentioned in the details although there are tea/coffee making facilities in the room and downstairs near the bar.
A convenient overnight stop for our trip to Cornwall. Hotel was in a great position, close to en excellent Italian restaurant. Our rom was large and the bed was super comfortable. The bathroom was also large with a bath and a separate walk in shower. I would comment that you have to book parking through JustPark, at £15 per night! This seems rather excessive in a small town. There is also NO restaurant as mentioned in the details although there are tea/coffee making facilities in the room and downstairs near the bar.
10
Jeanne
Jul 12, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Great hotel in the center of the town. Late arrival but warmly welcomed by Graham. Excellent breakfast, very attractive contemporary decor and lovely staff.
Great hotel in the center of the town. Late arrival but warmly welcomed by Graham. Excellent breakfast, very attractive contemporary decor and lovely staff.
8
A.C.
May 18, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
N ice old traditional hotel with character. Pity there is no breakfast. Parking is a comfort. The staff were very helpful.
N ice old traditional hotel with character. Pity there is no breakfast. Parking is a comfort. The staff were very helpful.
8
Elizabeth
May 26, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
I missed the point in the information where no meals were available in the hotel. ie no meals at all. `No breakfast or evening meal available.
I missed the point in the information where no meals were available in the hotel. ie no meals at all. `No breakfast or evening meal available.
10
Richard John
Sep 30, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
The hotel was friendly and quiet. Centrally located. The parking space was a bit crowded but adequate. The breakfast was delicious and efficiently served. Overall a good experience.
The hotel was friendly and quiet. Centrally located. The parking space was a bit crowded but adequate. The breakfast was delicious and efficiently served. Overall a good experience.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
8
Catherine
5 weeks ago
·
Stayed 1 night
Really nice little hotel, very comfy bed and excellent shower. Loved the free tea, coffee, hot chocolate machine in lobby.
Really nice little hotel, very comfy bed and excellent shower. Loved the free tea, coffee, hot chocolate machine in lobby.
10
Patricia
Jul 29, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Very clean and cozy. Free tea, coffee, cappuccino…. Canteen wit cutlery, plates, microwave. Resting areas throughout the property. Near center
Very clean and cozy. Free tea, coffee, cappuccino…. Canteen wit cutlery, plates, microwave. Resting areas throughout the property. Near center
10
Tom
Jul 26, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
We had a very nice stay at The Sleeping Bear. The room was clean and tidy and the bed comfortable. Please be aware with no lift it is a little tricky getting up and down the stairs if you are less mobile. An excellent stay!
We had a very nice stay at The Sleeping Bear. The room was clean and tidy and the bed comfortable. Please be aware with no lift it is a little tricky getting up and down the stairs if you are less mobile. An excellent stay!
6
Colin
Jul 13, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Personal thing but I don’t like hotels with no reception.
Personal thing but I don’t like hotels with no reception.
10
Roy
Jul 2, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Perfect stay for anyone visiting Dorchester. Hotel is super clean and staff very helpful and friendly. Parking needs to be pre-booked but there are a number of car parks close by. Hotel is 'room only' which works really well as there is no pressure to get to breakfast! Loads of choices within a 5 minute walk of the hotel which includes the 'Horse with the Red Umbrella' and the Dorset Museum. Room's are comfy and provide everything you need for your stay. There is a handy vending machine wher you can buy drinks and snacks as well as complimentary tea/coffee. The hotel has a dining room which can be used by guest to eat take-aways etc., plates and cutlery are provided. All-in-all a great hotel and very good value for money. Oh and did I mention they are dog friendly (check before you book though). Will definitely stay here again as there are many things still to see in Dorchester.
Perfect stay for anyone visiting Dorchester. Hotel is super clean and staff very helpful and friendly. Parking needs to be pre-booked but there are a number of car parks close by. Hotel is 'room only' which works really well as there is no pressure to get to breakfast! Loads of choices within a 5 minute walk of the hotel which includes the 'Horse with the Red Umbrella' and the Dorset Museum. Room's are comfy and provide everything you need for your stay. There is a handy vending machine wher you can buy drinks and snacks as well as complimentary tea/coffee. The hotel has a dining room which can be used by guest to eat take-aways etc., plates and cutlery are provided. All-in-all a great hotel and very good value for money. Oh and did I mention they are dog friendly (check before you book though). Will definitely stay here again as there are many things still to see in Dorchester.
FAQs about Sleeping Bear Hotels Dorchester
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00, and check-out is by 11:00. Early or late check-in/check-out may be available upon request, but additional charges may apply.
Where is the hotel located in relation to local attractions?
The hotel is centrally located in Dorchester, within a 15-minute drive of Weymouth Beach and Dorset and East Devon Coast. It is 0.1 miles from Tutankhamun: The Exhibition and 13.3 miles from Lulworth Cove.
What are the hotel's policies regarding children?
Children can stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.
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Instant AI responses are based on hotel information
Prices for upcoming dates
September 2026
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October 2026
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Cheaper
Pricier
Average nightly price across deals, with taxes & fees.
Prices in USD for 2 guests, updated daily.
- 2026-09-05: NO DATA
- 2026-09-06: 92.75932878112793USD
- 2026-09-07: NO DATA
- 2026-09-08: NO DATA
- 2026-09-09: NO DATA
- 2026-09-10: 109.13130117797851USD
- 2026-09-11: 136.4423303314209USD
- 2026-09-12: NO DATA
- 2026-09-13: 72.80905048294068USD
- 2026-09-14: 89.08639419250488USD
- 2026-09-15: 93.6473737548828USD
- 2026-09-16: NO DATA
- 2026-09-17: 79.43871620025635USD
- 2026-09-18: 100.89985032348633USD
- 2026-09-19: NO DATA
- 2026-09-20: 73.33333390426635USD
- 2026-09-21: 83.36109057312012USD
- 2026-09-22: 78.35420117797851USD
- 2026-09-23: 80.36868151855468USD
- 2026-09-24: 75.3028236404419USD
- 2026-09-25: 93.52644184570312USD
- 2026-09-26: 113.89537865142822USD
- 2026-09-27: 71.28753514099121USD
- 2026-09-28: 78.63425495300292USD
- 2026-09-29: 81.34394313812255USD
- 2026-09-30: 77.34962810211182USD
- 2026-10-01: 73.18210256195069USD
- 2026-10-02: 81.75962885437012USD
- 2026-10-03: 95.32272550811767USD
- 2026-10-04: 69.0545347038269USD
- 2026-10-05: 68.30045584487915USD
- 2026-10-06: 97.48908845825196USD
- 2026-10-07: 93.45746954345704USD
- 2026-10-08: 83.21068771362305USD
- 2026-10-09: 74.9993951309204USD
- 2026-10-10: 124.81603157043457USD
- 2026-10-11: 69.0545347038269USD
- 2026-10-12: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-10-13: 70.700016771698USD
- 2026-10-14: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-10-15: 69.60879857025147USD
- 2026-10-16: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-10-17: 97.4305807357788USD
- 2026-10-18: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-10-19: 78.83117690124512USD
- 2026-10-20: 86.49531639251708USD
- 2026-10-21: 85.40044311981201USD
- 2026-10-22: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-10-23: 86.49531639251708USD
- 2026-10-24: 99.62032728118896USD
- 2026-10-25: 70.79001570205688USD
- 2026-10-26: 79.91253748626708USD
- 2026-10-27: 79.91253748626708USD
- 2026-10-28: 80.98922844085693USD
- 2026-10-29: 74.30402336196899USD
- 2026-10-30: 77.74411883544921USD
- 2026-10-31: 86.49531639251708USD
- 2026-11-01: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-11-02: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-11-03: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-11-04: 76.64142149505615USD
- 2026-11-05: 76.64142149505615USD
The front desk is open daily from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
Check-in must be done by someone who is at least 18 years old.
- Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
- Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
- Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
- This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
- This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
- Cashless transactions are available
- Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
- Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
- Children stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.
- Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
- Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
- Contactless check-in and contactless check-out are available.
Popular amenities
Non-Smoking Rooms
Housekeeping
Banquet Facilities
Luggage Storage
Designated Smoking Area
Express Check-In/Check-Out
Services
Housekeeping
Banquet Facilities
Luggage Storage
Designated Smoking Area
Express Check-In/Check-Out
General
Non-Smoking Rooms
Internet
Free Wi-Fi