Situated in the heart of Thomas Hardy's vale of Little Dairies, Plumber Manor is a comfortable Jacobean Manor house built of local Dorset stone, in a delightful rural setting. It has been in the Prideaux-Brune family since the 17th century and for the last 20 years has been run by Richard, Alison and Brian as a restaurant with rooms. The lovely villages and towns of Milton Abbas, Shaftesbury, and Sherborne, are just a short drive away. The house is surrounded by lovely lawns and set in the tranquil Dorset countryside. The Develish stream runs along the edge of the lawn, and a tennis court, croquet lawn and deck chairs are provided for guests' enjoyment. Fishing, shooting, riding, hunting, and golf are available on request, and the surrounding countryside is ideal for walkers. Many Hardy landmarks are nearby, including Tess's cottage and the Dew Drop Inn. Neighbouring villages including both Marnhull and Sturminster Newton feature in his books. Several National Trust properties and historic homes lie in the vicinity, and the Dorset coast in within easy reach. There is much to visit and enjoy near Plumber Manor before returning in the evening to enjoy the fine food, wine and hospitality for which the hotel is justly renowned.