A bank holiday weekend is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself and the ones you love to some special time away. Whatever the weather, a bank holiday break in the New Forest guarantees refreshing walks, inspiring views everywhere you turn, and a whole host of attractions to please every visitor.
There’s a great choice of stunning hotels in the area to suit everyone too, whether a couple on a romantic getaway, a family here to visit Peppa Pig World, or an adventurer and their dog, here to enjoy the beautiful countryside.
Here’s a rundown of some of the best, each offering a warm welcome, fabulous food and a place to dream sweet dreams after a day of bank holiday fun.
Finding the perfect place to stay can take your bank holiday break experience to a whole new level. The aim of all New Forest Collection’s hotels is to go the extra mile, so while of course each shines with its own unique character and charm, excellence applies across the board.
Each hotel enjoys the glorious backdrop of the New Forest and has beautiful gardens and grounds to stroll or play in, so guests feel a real sense of space that invites even the busiest mind to slow down and relax.
Complimentary parking also gives peace of mind, and there are EV charging points, WiFi, and all sorts of other thoughtful touches that make the difference. Most venues have their own pool and 24-hour room service, and every restaurant is proudly overseen by talented chefs showcasing the best available locally sourced and seasonal produce on their award-winning menus.
A bank holiday break with the children is sure to be exciting and fast-paced, so it’s important that the hotel you choose gives you all the chance to unwind. There are always generously-proportioned rooms and suites in all New Forest Collection hotels, with room for families to lounge, and either a fold-away sofa-bunk or another pop-up bed or two if required.
Parent-friendly settings are available in some of the restaurants too, and guests with children particularly love The Drift, the laid-back and stylish country pub right next door to family-favourite Beaulieu Inn.
Beaulieu is charming and quirky, with donkeys and forest ponies grazing just outside on the open heath, something that little explorers always love to see. Inside, the soothing atmosphere and elegant interiors invite parents to sit back and enjoy.
Moorhill House is another warm and welcoming venue ideal for a bank holiday break with the family. This gorgeous bed and breakfast is quite lovely, with fresh, light interiors reflecting the natural beauty of its location; rooms enjoy treetop views and the ancient village of Burley is only minutes away, and because Moorhill House is set right in the heart of the forest, children will have plenty of space to run off steam and enjoy their break.
The New Forest is a heavenly place for a romantic getaway at any time of the year, and treating your other half to a bank holiday break in a gorgeous hotel is sure to make them smile.
Lovers looking for the quintessential boutique experience need look no further than Forest Lodge near Lyndhurst. The rooms in this sophisticated townhouse hotel are crisp and contemporary, and its intimate dining spaces are just the spot to enjoy a candlelit supper from the menu of its award-winning restaurant, 1820.
Heritage charms abound within Burley Manor, set within a magnificent 800-year-old estate. It has a long romantic history and a real reputation as a luxurious New Forest haven and retreat, and its sumptuous rooms, spa facilities and indulgent signature treatments will show you why.
The Shepherd’s Hut at Burley is the manor’s best-kept secret and perhaps the ultimate bank holiday hideaway for couples. With its wood-burning stove, copper roll-top bath and secluded woodland setting, this is an unforgettable and luxurious experience.
As is Grade-II listed Bartley Lodge, with its traditional-meets-contemporary interiors, and beautiful rooms, each with breathtaking views over the landscaped gardens and neighbouring deer park. The Charles Lyell Suite with four-poster and twinkling chandeliers is exquisite, and perfect for couples looking for a luxury bank holiday break.
A bank holiday break in the New Forest is something to share with the whole family, and simply wouldn’t be the same without your most adorable canine companion yipping excitedly by your side.
Each one of New Forest Collection’s hotels is dog-friendly, with beautiful gardens and ideally situated to make the most of the stunning surrounding countryside; there are wonderful walks and trails in every direction that really get tails wagging.
Every guest, including those with the waggy tails, receives the warmest of welcomes, and so when you let your hotel know their name in advance, your dog will be presented with their own special mat, bowls and complimentary healthy treats on arrival.
Whether you like to plan well in advance or leave it till late, there’s no problem at all, because each of New Forest Collection’s hotels offer opportunities to book last-minute. Opt for a long weekend break, or to extend your stay in the New Forest beyond the bank holiday – the choice really is yours.
Whichever would suit you best, any one of these exceptional hotels in the New Forest is easily accessible, with excellent links via road and rail. There are also local airports at both Bournemouth and Southampton, with Heathrow and Gatwick no more than 90 minutes away along the M3 and the M3 and M25 respectively, and ferry ports in Portsmouth and Southampton.
Being so well-connected means that every hotel is within a short distance of some incredible New Forest attractions. There are hundreds of acres of forest to explore on foot or by bike, pretty coastal villages and water sports to enjoy, and vibrant towns with their independent shops, galleries and markets to visit.
From historic landmarks like Hurst Castle to the ever-popular Paultons Park, there really is something to please everyone.
We might never be able to predict what the British weather will do, but what’s sure is that whichever one of these spectacular hotels you choose as your bank holiday home-from-home, you’re guaranteed a New Forest break to remember.
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