THE first thing you’ll do when arriving at the newly-refurbished Cottonwood Boutique Hotel is take a sharp breath and marvel at the opulent surroundings.

It’s a flamboyant celebration of shocking pink and gold, with crushed velvet seats and carefully-selected artwork adorning the walls.

Dining options are either a la carte or from a special seasonal Wine & Dine menu that won’t hit the wallet too hard.

A current offer includes wine and two courses for under £30 per couple.

The menu boasts a fine selection of starters and home-baked breads with aromatic olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. The decadent starters include smooth chicken liver pâté accompanied by a rustic, homemade apple and pear chutney, not to mention oak smoked salmon, presented on a farmhouse wooden board with miniature caper berries and silky smooth crème fraiche.

The talented brigade of chefs has devised some tantalising mains such as succulently braised beef with buttered mash, button mushrooms and a thyme and bacon sauce.

Or shank of lamb in a rich red wine and onion gravy, served with baby seasonable vegetables.

As you take in the elegant surroundings, it’s worth sampling the white and dark chocolate mousse with sharp red-berry coulis, or even a selection of Dorset cheeses, all served with traditional chutney, celery and grapes.

Either way, this marvellous tribute to classic British fayre with a contemporary twist is strongly recommended by 24SEVEN.