Knoll House

Time-warp and like a tardis! Rooms comfortable but all very different in terms of modern vs old - think hotel may be in middle of refurbishment. Some areas dusty but beds very comfy & lovely hot powrful shower. Breakfast fantastic and lots of staff on hand to help and refill. Facilities are amazing - pool was heated so not freezing, sauna, table tennis, cinema room, tennis courts, mini golf course…endless! Best of all the views of the sea and the quick 5 mins walk to absolutely stunning beach with cafe, water sports equipment hire & parking. Couldn’t ask for more!

Really nice place to stay with extensive grounds all well looked after. Great staff. Played golf and used the indoor pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. Also liked the games room - table tennis and pool table both top quality. Would certainly return and recommend. 👍

Perfect position, great traditional hotel, excellent food, warm swimming pool, clean, needs some updating but wouldn’t want it to change too much and become too expensive for the average person.

The hotel was in a prime location, within walking distance of Studland beaches. Plenty of facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, games room and pitch and putt.The hotel was clean and tidy but could do with modernising and freshening up.We ate at the hotel in the evening, but the waitress didn't come to ask if everything was okay. My husband had mackerel which didn't taste fresh and his beef was dffiicult to cut and fatty. I had smoked salmon, which again didn't taste fresh and hake which was pleasant. We didn't think for £34 each for 2 courses was worth the money. There were no other choices except the 2 course menu. They also added gratuity without asking which was annoying.

Nice hotel with helpful staff, the outdoor areas are great as is the heated outdoor pool.

It was a great hotel with excellent facilities. Some decoration was a bit dated but it was excellent value for what there was to do. My 2 daughters didn’t want to leave and are already asking to go back!

Check in was nice and easy & Staff where very helpful. The locations unmatched being placed in one of the most beautiful places in the uk. 2 minutes walk over to Studland beach and the nature reserve and just 5 minutes drive to Swanage and Corfe castle. Inside the hotel is a quiet lounge, Mini cinema room, Library, games room and nice leisure facilities. It is very much family friendly and dog friendly also so expect lots of children and pets walking about, All well behaved and not a reason to put you off staying here if youre looking for somewhere beautiful and quiet to stay. Would recommend staying atleast 2 nights to take full advantage of the facilities and surroundings.

The property is in an excellent position for the beach and has excellent sports facilities such as golf,tennis,indoor and outdoor swimming pools plus an inside games room . The staff are really friendly and helpful especially in the dining room. I would highly recommend this hotel for anyone wanting to stay in this area 😁

It was all good pool not working on the day we stayed but otherwise good

The hotel was amazing and the staff were friendly and helpful. The facilities are an added bonus such as the games room, bar, pools and restaurant.

We lived the spacious comfortable hotel. Everywhere was spotless and comfortable. It was charming, like stepping back in time. The food was with plenty of choice and well cooked. White cotton tablecloths on the tables. We will certainly be staying again in the future.

This could be the worst hotel we have stayed in. The hotel was filthy. Our room and bathroom were covered in dust, there was bodily hair all over the bathroom, mould and dirt all around taps and grouting. Staff were unhelpful and even acknowledged they get a lot of complaints. It’s as if they are purposefully running the hotel into the ground. Breakfast cereal was soggy and out of date, mouldy cheese and crackers were chewy! This hotel is absolutely nothing like the images on Hotels.com and a total misrepresentation on both Hotels.com and the hotel. Total rip off at £310 per night. Shame I didn’t get more photos. Contacted Hotels.com to see if we could leave but the hotel wouldn’t give the money back.

Enjoyed early morning swims, in the beautiful pool. Plenty of seating areas around the hotel to relax or socialise The beds were comfy, plenty of choice for the delicious breakfast. We had a problem with ants in our room but were quickly offered another room which was an upgrade. Staff were friendly and accommodating.

Lovely character hotel. We unfortunately ended up in the garden room next to the carpark not the main house. Old feather bed cover and pillows quite scratchy I needed baby lotion at 2am in order to seal my skin and relax. Not a good night's sleep lovely food

Stopped here for my daughters wedding for 2 nights The surrounding area is amazing and the hotel is set in charming grounds Buffet breakfast was excellent Food at the wedding was fantastic Staff were charming and always willing to help Hotel needs a good deep clean and more attention to keeping it clean But overall a wonderful charming dog friendly hotel which I would whole heartedly reccomend and would return to. It’s a pity the owners don’t spend a little money on renovating this very charming hotel instead of following the trend and knocking down and rebuilding the glass fronted no charm no atmosphere hotels that are in this area Bev

As others have said, Knoll House is like stepping back in time! The best things about it are it's location and the outdoor pool. The food is also good. Other things are a bit tired. Our room hadn't been cleaned very well and the doors all rattled in the wind!

Dated and pool filthy wouldent even let a dog go

The property was lovely and clean and well kept. The pools were lovely and clean. Some areas just needed decorating.

Overall the room was clean and warm . The decor was dated (my opinion). The bathroom overall was clean however there were traces of mould in the tiles. Excellent breakfast the staff were very welcoming.

Hotel was tired and didn’t reflect the pictures advertised on website. Located next to run down staff accommodation, swimming pool looked pristine in pictures however the sun terrace was covered in weeds. Information at check was limited and slightly unwelcoming however staff on departure couldn’t have been better. Outside patio and terrace could have done with some tlc. Grass needed cutting and whole house could do with a spruce up repaint

Room poor condition. Bad head space as bed under the eaves and divan base jutted out causing a trip .

Likes: friendly staff, great value dinner Dislikes: very cramped room; dated furniture; shower temperature kept changing; poor quality hospitality tray; horrible outlook over a large flat roof and carpark beyond; room and bedding too hot (couldn’t open windows because of kitchen smells); dogs in hotel were noisy in the morning; limited choice at breakfast (no fruit salad or grapefruit)

Great location, homely, can't get a scone after 4pm though, good breakfast, double beds are too small, so sad that outdoor pool not open yet.

Staff definitely, always happy and helpful. Clean room , wonderful views

Great location. Good accomodation spoilt by the broken windows in our sea view room. Friendly staff. Good for dogs and walking.

Lovely setting and you feel like you step back in time. WiFi non existent in garden rooms . Lovely breakfast and polite staff

Probably nice in the 60’s. Hasn’t been refurbished since. Very very dated and poor condition of buildings and grounds. Bedroom had excess furniture making it hard to open doors. Bedroom window fully opened onto a flat roof with a drop so not safe for children. Drain in shower was blocked and smelt vile. Area around the pool was rough. Surface hurt your feet. Cafe was open but there wasn’t anything on offer to buy. Golf course overgrown and we lost four balls in four minutes. Really strange hotel. Wouldn’t stay again but would add that the location for Studland beaches is spot on.

Knoll House Hotel offers a delightful retreat surrounded by nature, where the charm of old-world architecture meets the needs for a modern update. Wifi - or should I say no wifi, Trying to stream anything was an exercise in patience and perseverance. Room itself had a connecting door to the other guests... very noisy The check-in process is test of patience - 4pm check in.

We arrived not quite knowing what to expect after reading mixed reviews. First impression was the buildings were dated and a bit shabby. However we got a warm welcome and early check in to our room which, although not huge, had clearly been well refurbished not too long ago. As we started to settle in we became more accepting of the artexed walls and dated feel of the public areas and appreciated the stunning location, very freindly staff throughout and great food. We slept well thanks to a good quality mattress and the absence of howling dogs, which had been one of our concerns. We swam in the cold September sea, followed by the outdoor pool, which at 26' wasn't hot, but certainty a huge improvement on the 16' sea! We loved the steamroom, sauna and hot tub, which we had to ourselves and I don't think I've ever had a better full english breakfast despite numerous stays in 5 star accommodation. The Enid Blyton and other memorabilia was very interesting and we took one of the recommended walks through lovely moorland with stunning views. We did find it a bit pricey for a 3 star hotel, but taking into account the location and everything else, including the endless choice of both indoor outside places to sit and relax, we had a great 2 night stay and would recommend.

Evening meals were very good, staff helpful and polite, breakfast buffet okay. position right by Knoll beach is lovely, Excellent view from terrace and dining room out to sea and headland. Internet access in rooms is poor, rooms are out of date and small with tired decor out of the 1950s, sound insulation non-existent, bathrooms basic, only one electric socket in each bedroom, furniture feels cheap. Pool is okay though again old-fashioned, golf course rough and ready, terrace and steps outside a bit hazardous with uneven paving. The whole place needs a serious make-over.

We booked Half Board as a family (2+2) kids are aged 10 & 8. Turned up to the hotel and they said that although we booked half board only adults get the package, for the kids you have to pay extra. Checked all booking confirmation and there’s no mention of that in the booking process or small print or any confirmation. To double check I spoke with the agents at hotels.com who also confirmed there’s no mention of it there either… they also believe this to be unfair. False advertising and blatant lying. Further to that, there’s a mandatory service charge for anything you charge to your room including drinks at the bar and food in the restaurant. No mention of this when you order and you don’t sign / get a receipt when charging to your room either. Just another underhanded tactic to money grab from unsuspecting guests. Hotel is alright, it’s tired, needs some investment but it’s functional. Things to note, in the garden suite there are very few plug sockets in the bedroom, TV is 21” (tiny) both nonissue for us but for kids if they play on devices want to watch some telly then this will be difficult. Also no WiFi in this room either. Would is at here again, yes, but only if someone else was paying… for the additional cost of the kids meal £43 we could have easily paid for a better quality of hotel in the local area. We do a lot of staycations is this area as we are locals in Bournemouth, would say even a Britannia hotel is better value for money and that’s something!

Our stay was lovely. Room, food and staff could not be faulted. I have a garlic intolerance and the chefs were helpful and supplied alternatives, that were delicious. Hope to return in the future. Big thanks to everyone.

Very unfriendly receptionist. No smile no charm. Not good after very long journeyb

We had a lovely stay… The staff went out of their way to show kindness and consideration. We had a lovely room with a comfortable bed. A special mention to both Charlie and Dobby in the restaurant who organised and delivered a meal to our room when there was no space to book in the restaurant… 🙏

Our room wasn’t cleaned and we were told we had to request that. Never ever in hundreds of hotel visits has that been the case!

Very good staff, very good accommodation with facilities for my husband 's disabilities. Breakfst and evening dinner was good. We very much enjoyed our visit. This was our second visit to this lovely area and to Knoll House. I am sure that we will return sometime.

Stopped here for my daughters wedding for 2 nights The surrounding area is amazing and the hotel is set in charming grounds Buffet breakfast was excellent Food at the wedding was fantastic Staff were charming and always willing to help Hotel needs a good deep clean and more attention to keeping it clean But overall a wonderful charming dog friendly hotel which I would whole heartedly reccomend and would return to. It’s a pity the owners don’t spend a little money on renovating this very charming hotel instead of following the trend and knocking down and rebuilding the glass fronted no charm no atmosphere hotels that are in this area Bev

Check in was nice and easy & Staff where very helpful. The locations unmatched being placed in one of the most beautiful places in the uk. 2 minutes walk over to Studland beach and the nature reserve and just 5 minutes drive to Swanage and Corfe castle. Inside the hotel is a quiet lounge, Mini cinema room, Library, games room and nice leisure facilities. It is very much family friendly and dog friendly also so expect lots of children and pets walking about, All well behaved and not a reason to put you off staying here if youre looking for somewhere beautiful and quiet to stay. Would recommend staying atleast 2 nights to take full advantage of the facilities and surroundings.

Hotel was in a great location. Very clean and tidy but looked a bit tired. Bathroom needed some TLC and long wait in restaurant for dinner due to lack of staff, the staff that were there seemed to be working very hard so not their fault. Food was delicious once it arrived.

Loved the whole experience apart from a few unwelcoming staff, particularly on Reception. Staying here is like stepping back in time! Great location close to one of the outstanding beaches of Studland. Fabulous views out to sea and plenty of interesting walks.

We’ve been to this hotel on several occasions and will continue to do so. It’s hard to describe – a bit like stepping back in time but such a warm, friendly and quirky hotel that sits right opposite Knoll beach and is perfectly placed for the Isle of Purbeck and Poole. The bus stops right outside for easy access into Swanage and the beaches are exceptional. Breakfast at the hotel is excellent, the rooms we’ve had are usually compact but comfortable – maybe a little dated but that’s part of the charm! We bring our dog so have to sit in a different dining area which is fine but space can sometimes be limited depending on how many dogs are staying, however the staff are very accommodating.

The grounds of the hotel are beautiful, and the Studland Bay beaches are close by. The hotel has a fascinating history. Our room was very comfortable.

Location Location.

Great location

Great location, parking is a nightmare. Main areas are a little dated and tired and the walls are very thin between rooms but actually this is the most welcoming little hotel I have ever stayed at. I will definite be coming back… as do most of the guests who stay here.

I love the atmosphere, service and location of Knoll House Hotel. It the best.

It’s in the most beautiful area, easy to park, close to NT beach and lovely walks

Check in was nice and easy & Staff where very helpful. The locations unmatched being placed in one of the most beautiful places in the uk. 2 minutes walk over to Studland beach and the nature reserve and just 5 minutes drive to Swanage and Corfe castle. Inside the hotel is a quiet lounge, Mini cinema room, Library, games room and nice leisure facilities. It is very much family friendly and dog friendly also so expect lots of children and pets walking about, All well behaved and not a reason to put you off staying here if youre looking for somewhere beautiful and quiet to stay. Would recommend staying atleast 2 nights to take full advantage of the facilities and surroundings.

Really dog friendly Excellent breakfast Amazing location

Evening meals were very good, staff helpful and polite, breakfast buffet okay. position right by Knoll beach is lovely, Excellent view from terrace and dining room out to sea and headland. Internet access in rooms is poor, rooms are out of date and small with tired decor out of the 1950s, sound insulation non-existent, bathrooms basic, only one electric socket in each bedroom, furniture feels cheap. Pool is okay though again old-fashioned, golf course rough and ready, terrace and steps outside a bit hazardous with uneven paving. The whole place needs a serious make-over.

A friend and I stayed for two nights on Bank Holiday. The welcome was friendly, everything worked and the service was excellent. The decor in the main house was rather tired butwas adequate and the room price reflected this.The food was good and the beds comfortable.

The Knoll house hotel looks as though it could do with a lick of paint externally, but inside it is lovely. The food was good however the service on our first evening was rather slow. We were in the restaurant for 2 hours eating just 2 courses. It was much better on our second night. They accommodated my husband's need for gluten free food as he is a coeliac.

The coffee was not good at all, the dinner was okay but there was only choice of one vegetable which was an extra charge. Socket in the bedroom did not enable us to charge up our phones

Had a lovely stay at the Knoll House. The location is perfect and the staff were dedicated. The bedroom was comfortable although the decor was a little shabby. Dinner was wonderful but breakfast left a lot to be desired compared to other hotels I visit.

I love this place - amazing location and a sort of shabby charm. The only problem is the food - the allowance for dinner has gone from £39 to £27-50 and seeing as all main courses are over £20 up to £30, you can only get one and a bit courses for that. The daily menu will give you 2 courses but has only 2 choices and both are very cheap pasta or gnocchi neither of which I like. It’s really disappointing. I plan to go back but will have to eat elsewhere - not only due to the poor value but also the choices. I know prices have gone up massively but there are ways to provide good meals. Portions of meat in the main courses were HUGE whereas the hassleback potatoes with it were two TINY little new potatoes. Same with the lamb - two flakes of kale, a small spoonful of mash and 5 enormous pieces of lamb. It doesn’t make financial sense at all and I’d rather have more vegetables anyway. Cut the meat portions, increase the vegetables and save money! Breakfast on the other hand is great.

The hotel was in a prime location, within walking distance of Studland beaches. Plenty of facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, games room and pitch and putt.The hotel was clean and tidy but could do with modernising and freshening up.We ate at the hotel in the evening, but the waitress didn't come to ask if everything was okay. My husband had mackerel which didn't taste fresh and his beef was dffiicult to cut and fatty. I had smoked salmon, which again didn't taste fresh and hake which was pleasant. We didn't think for £34 each for 2 courses was worth the money. There were no other choices except the 2 course menu. They also added gratuity without asking which was annoying.

This was our second visit to Knoll House and after our recent stay we will definitely be booking a third. The location is stunning, such beautiful beaches and wonderful views. We were blessed again with such warm sunny days during our stay. The unique hotel, stuck in time, with the 'retro' interior and quirky features make it all the more appealing for me. The beautiful outdoor pool is my daughter's favourite activity. Knoll house is the perfect place to bring a family for a short stay. The staff are friendly and provide excellent customer service. Breakfast is delicious, a great choice of quality food to choose. A truly wonderful stay.

Stopped here for my daughters wedding for 2 nights The surrounding area is amazing and the hotel is set in charming grounds Buffet breakfast was excellent Food at the wedding was fantastic Staff were charming and always willing to help Hotel needs a good deep clean and more attention to keeping it clean But overall a wonderful charming dog friendly hotel which I would whole heartedly reccomend and would return to. It’s a pity the owners don’t spend a little money on renovating this very charming hotel instead of following the trend and knocking down and rebuilding the glass fronted no charm no atmosphere hotels that are in this area Bev

The only thing which lets it down is the confusion over the menu. There is a set menu & ala carts menu which 1 you order from & how many courses you are allowed 2or 3 gets confusing. They charge extra for £5 for a small dish of vegetables which is the same every night, peas, kale,sometimes broccoli is added. So if booking half board check your entitlement so you don’t end up with an unexpected bill,

Evening meals were very good, staff helpful and polite, breakfast buffet okay. position right by Knoll beach is lovely, Excellent view from terrace and dining room out to sea and headland. Internet access in rooms is poor, rooms are out of date and small with tired decor out of the 1950s, sound insulation non-existent, bathrooms basic, only one electric socket in each bedroom, furniture feels cheap. Pool is okay though again old-fashioned, golf course rough and ready, terrace and steps outside a bit hazardous with uneven paving. The whole place needs a serious make-over.