We recently spoke with Ben Blackburn, the managing director of The Bell Inn, and Joe, the resident Labrador, on why they think being a dog-friendly hotel is great, as well as special facts about their hotel!
Why do you love being a dog-friendly hotel?
Dogs are friendly and create an atmosphere in the pub and hotel. For many of us our dogs are part of the family and often considered extra kids or in lieu of kids so why not make them as welcome as any human family member?
What does a doggie welcome at the hotel look like?
As with their human companions, they get a warm welcome. A big fuss on arrival, treats and gifts in the room and even their own menu in the bar.
Why do dogs love your hotel?
The warm welcome, everyone makes a fuss of them and the space to explore.
What is the best dog story you have at your hotel?
A dog being a formal wedding guest and helping carry the rings.
What does Joe like doing?
Playing/retrieving and especially out of the water.
Tell us a story about your Joe.
Joe is often manning reception providing the welcome to guests, he is yet to learn the booking system but is trying hard. In the summer he is often seen playing in the garden with his bucket filled with water and chopped-up carrots for hours and hours!
What are your favourite dog-friendly places in the local area?
Our golf courses, we have three golf courses within our group and the nature new forest terrain has miles of brilliant walks outside the door. We are surrounded by so many great walks in the forest but our favourite thing to do is visit the local beach that’s only 20 minutes away.
Tell us something interesting about the hotel.
The hotel has three golf courses all of which are dog-friendly.
What is your favourite space in the hotel and why?
The bar, you can’t beat being sat in front of the roaring fireplace in the winter or in the courtyard or garden in the summer months.
What is your go-to dish at the hotel?
I like the Fish and chips all gluten-free like most of our menu. Joe likes the Hound hash from the dog menu.
What is your go-to cocktail/mocktail at the hotel?
Gin and tonic, Joe likes the Fur-st Quencher