The present Grade II* listed former coaching inn, complete with its life size stone bear overlooking the high street has a history starting in 1852, when it was rebuilt after the great fire of Wareham destroyed most of the town’s high street. The Bear Hotel was bought by the current owners in 2018 and with its ownership comes the responsibility for the world, as local legend has it, if the bear sitting on the buildings balcony were ever to fall from its outlook, the end of the world is nigh.
Over the following 20 months the owners worked alongside a team of local craftspeople to bring The Bear back to its former glory, as the area’s preferred place to meet, dine and spend a special break away. During the restoration, hidden historic features were found under layers of plasterboard and woodchip wallpaper. Each was carefully exposed, loving restored to their prime condition and left to be appreciated. These include the original wooden panelling in Aloysius, probably used as the ballroom divider, a stunning brick wall exposed in the restaurant, another in the entrance, and the ancient bread oven hidden within another wall, now rehomed behind bar!
In October 2019 the ground floor was reopened, welcoming guests into our panelled bar, peaceful library, beautiful restaurant and characterful function space, all of which are linked by a new fabulous glass roofed corridor.
On Monday 16 March 2020 the bedrooms opened………. then all were closed 5 days later when lockdown restrictions were imposed. The rest, as they say, “is history”!
News & Offers
STAY WITH US IN AUGUST!
A great location to stay if you are exploring The Isle of Purbeck including Wareham, Swanage, Corfe Castle & Studland.
Midweek Summer Stays – 15% Off in August
Dreaming of a peaceful escape or romantic nights away? Book directly on our website with code AUGUST15% or call 01929 288150 to enjoy:
• 15 % off all midweek stays (Sunday–Thursday) during August 2025
• A delicious breakfast included every morning
• Straightforward, no-fuss booking—offer not available elsewhere
EARLY EATS MENU — Available Daily from 5 to 6pm
A small, delicious, great-value menu with something for everyone.
• 4 of our most popular dishes – just £15 each
• Children’s menu – £9.95, including a squash drink
• Homemade cakes or ice cream for dessert
Book or pop in, place your order between 5 and 6pm and vacate the table by 7pm. It’s perfect for a pre- or post-cinema bite, a post beach treat—or even to dodge the traffic! By the time you leave, the roads will be clearer, and everything will feel that little bit better.
See All Offers & Details Here
