The Merchant House

Welcoming entrance and hallway. Very small room, tiny en-suite which wouldn’t be a problem for one night. No bed for daughter on arrival so a make shift bed on a chaise longue created despite communication in advance saying there would be a Z bed, seems like she was forgotten about. Bed uncomfortable (very soft) and loud creaking with slightest movement. Light curtains, noisy both from outside and other rooms. We left early for the ferry so didn’t experience the breakfast. We were left a bag of food which was a lovely idea but the biscuits and crisps were out of date. The coffee sachets in the room were also out of date and unusable, granules had congealed together in the packet. Not overly clean (chocolate wrapper found behind the side table), grouting on shower mouldy in patches.

I walked the South West Coast Path and spent a night here after completing the hike. The location of the accommodation is great. Ideal with lots of pubs and restaurants nearby. David gave me a very nice welcome and also provided me some tips for the evening in Poole. As I had to leave early in the morning, I wasn't able to enjoy his much-praised breakfast. Instead, he prepared a large packed lunch for me, although I only asked for a small one. I can definitely recommend the accommodation.

We visited the Merchant House for a couple of nights with my brother and sister in law. Our room was very small with no drawers or wardrobe for clothes and nowhere to put anything such as cases etc. The size of the en-suite bathroom was fine. However both were not cleaned properly with the standard in my opinion being far below that acceptable for guests. The grout and seal around the bathroom tiling was black in places. Skirting boards had not been cleaned for a long while and there was a general lack of attention to cleaning items such as bedside lamps and other areas. The heating was not working on the bathroom towel rail or on the bedroom radiator, which wasn’t ideal on a wet chilly October weekend. The room was not serviced during our two nights stay, the coffee tray was not replenished nor were the cups washed or the bed made up or bins emptied. In general the whole experience was one we would not wish to repeat and since this was not a low priced accommodation it was certainly not considered by us to be value for money.

Very cramped room with a bathroom that badly needs refurbishment and a good deep clean. Blackout blinds would be helpful given the location, near a car park and offices. The breakfast was ok, but a more simplified version but with more choice would be welcomed by many. Host is very friendly however.

I really enjoyed my four night stay at the Merchant House arriving on a Friday in late September. The accommodation is in a great location and easy to find. I walked down the High Street from the train ( or coach station) until you get to the Slug and Lettuce restaurant on a corner, turn left there and walk a block or so behind. You can also find the Merchant House by walking down the lane near the Oriel restaurant on Poole Quay. I didn’t have a car so cannot comment about parking. I was delighted with my room, I felt the photos did not do the room justice, my room was on the top floor facing onto the street. David, the host, very generously carried my big bag to the room. The room was small but functional- with opportunity to make a cup of tea or coffee and a nice biscuit to go with it. The bathroom was clean and had a ledge to store toiletries. David the host offered a wide variety of breakfast options including the traditional full English breakfast. I chose something smaller. There was also an array of cereals, muesli and yoghurts. I was pleasantly surprised at the great public transport options to see the Jurassic Coast and Bournemouth area as well as a hop on hop off bus and organised tours. Thanks David for a great few days in your backyard.

A real find, very close to the quay at Poole. David is a charming and welcoming host. The accommodation was very nice and breakfast was excellent. I would definitely recommend a stay here. You won't be disappointed!

We stayed here as it was on the quays and ideal for an early ferry crossing. Did not stay for breakfast, so can't comment. Pros - Lovely decor, comfy bed and perfect for wandering along the quays for a drink or meal. Secure car park across the street (paying). Cons - Curtains not heavy enough to keep out street lights, so room was lit up all night. Room was VERY small but fine for one overnight. Would stay here again for the convenience, but only for one night.

6 star experience on all levels. * Brilliant bedding, mattress, pillows, slept better than ever * Brilliant ambience, decor, and comfort * All the little things one needs supplied in the room, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cookies, hairdryer, Teddy bear to cuddle, etc. * Bath room had quality lotion, shower gel, anti slip-mat, soft fluffy towels. * Brilliant, above and beyond Breakfast. David prepared a feast fit for a Queen 👸 🙌 👏 I will definitely be back. Highly recommended with confidence for everyone who needs to be spoilt.

I spent 2 very comfortable nights at Merchant House. As other reviewers have mentioned the rooms are compact but comfortable and have everything you need. David is an excellent host and has created a real home from home. I would definitely stay again.