Email Us The Old Manor The Old Manor in Dorchester is recommended by Marjorie from Godolphin Chapter in New Orleans.   The Old Manor Kingston Maurward Dorchester Dorset, DT2 8PX Tel. 01305 261110 e-mail: thomson@kingston-maurward.co.uk This is a Wolsey Lodge establishment. Information about the Wolsey Lodge concept can be found at their website.  There is a nominal fee to join the Wolsey Lodge organization.   This superb listed Elizabethan house was built in the 1590s and is furnished in 16th century style.  The Old Manor stands in magnificent private grounds within the landscaped garden of the former Kingston estate.  This is an ideal base to explore the historical area and coastline, and the heartland of Thomas Hardy's Wessex.   This is actually the 'Knapwater House' in Hardy's first novel Desperate Remedies. Your hosts are Andrew and Mulu Thomson.  Marjorie says they are a delightful couple.  Andrew used to work in the US setting up stores for Jaeger, and he actually opened the one in Canal Place in New Orleans, so he and Marjorie had plenty to talk about. If you go to the website of The Old Manor you can see pictures of the accomodation and the grounds.  Under "Optional Extras", you will find that you can also pamper yourself with a massage, facial, manicure or pedicure, which are offered in-house. Directions: Take A31 from Ringwood to Bere Regis.  Join A35 to Dorchester.  At Stinsford roundabout, just before Dorchester, take first exit signed to Kingston Maurward.  After about 200 meters turn right into Kingston Maurward College Grounds.  Follow signs to The Old Manor. For a map, go to  Directions to The Old Manor Travel Spots Index Home Last Updated: May 16, 2004 ©1999-2004 DBE in Louisiana, Inc. All rights reserved. Questions/Comments? Contact the Webmaster Betty Calzada.