We stayed for a one night treat as a stop off on our way to Cornwall. We really enjoyed our stay... our room was beautiful, immaculately clean, spacious and we loved the little touches of luxury (great toiletries, sumptuous bathrobes and thick clean sheets) and thoughtfulness (maps, masses of DVDs/CDs, 'things to do' lists on the back of the breakfast menu). We had dinner in the restaurant downstairs which we would definitely recommend. Best of all though were the friendly staff who were friendly, welcoming and helpful. Just a shame we were only there for one night!

Slightly mixed feelings about our stay here.

- We stayed in room 1 which was lovely and big. It's niggly things that let it down like a bulb gone in the bathroom and a smashed pane of glass taped up (but still showing a potentially dangerous crack). Also the mattress had a tendency to roll you into the middle. There is a sofa bed also in the room which would be good if you wanted to take children. The TV was facing the sofa and not easy to move so it could be watched in bed. Milk is stored in a fridge downstairs at the entrance which is a pain to get first thing in the morning, however was useful to chill a bottle of champagne! Downstairs is also a map plus DVDs to borrow which is appreciated.

- We ate in the pub in the evening and whilst the food was great, the service could be better. I had mussels however no spoon was provided if you wanted to slurp the juice. We ordered the triple cooked chips but they never arrived (but were on the bill), and my wife had rack of lamb asking for it to be well done after hearing another diner say it was very rare) yet they did not do this, meaning it had to go back to the kitchen and thus we did not eat our mains at the same time.

- Breakfast was again excellent but staff were nowhere to be seen. We waited 10 mins to order another pot of tea, and had to ask for toast

- The pub is good for children. They have books and toys, and a giant connect 4 in the garden, plus a play park behind the car park.

Overall the staff were all pretty young without a true (visible) leader running things. If this element was right, then things would be a lot better. Would I return? No, not with so much other choice around

Surrounding area is lovely - we visited Sherborne and Shaftsbury, both of which are great (Shaftsbury for views, and Sherborne for the Abbey).

We also ate at the Ship Inn, West Stour (also has rooms but on a main road). This is a really nice pub also, and had excellent service but the food whilst above average, could be better.

The Stapleton Arms is excellent value. The rooms are clean and newly decorated and the beds are very comfortable. The staff are welcoming and there is a good atmosphere in the bar and restaurant. The food is very good too.

Possibly the most laid back place I've ever stayed in but with great attention to detail - fresh coffee & magazines in our room, very good food, lovely breakfast, modern decor all hidden away in a sleepy village. I can't wait to go back!