There’s something about knowing you’re going to be heading off for a weekend break in the countryside that can put a spring in your step for the entire rest of the week.
It’s inspiring somehow, and has the power to lift your mood as you anticipate the delights to come. The New Forest in particular is a place that always holds something new and magical to be discovered, whether you’re visiting for the first time or, like so many smitten before you, have already fallen in love with this glorious part of the world.
Whether you’re a family up for a weekend adventure, a solo explorer with some delicious time for yourself, or a couple planning a secret romantic getaway, the weekend break of your dreams will of course include a fabulous hotel. As the New Forest is home to some of the very best places to stay in the UK, this is just one more thing you can start to get excited about.
The perfect New Forest weekend break
Bartley Lodge
Whether your New Forest weekend away will last for two heavenly nights, or you can’t resist and choose to extend your stay, those looking for the quintessential country house experience will be thrilled by staying at Bartley Lodge. This beautiful Grade II listed hotel in Cadnam is set within 8 acres of landscaped grounds, and inside, its heritage-meets-contemporary interiors are a delight.
Bedrooms here are stylish and comfortable, with incredible views, and the luxurious suites are even more spacious, so are great for a family-friendly break. Everyone loves the indoor pool, and when it’s time to dine, its elegant restaurant offers inspiring modern-British cuisine featuring superb local and seasonal produce, as well as a fantastic children’s menu and parent-friendly seating.
Another real favourite, especially with couples enjoying a romantic weekend break, is Forest Lodge in Lyndhurst. This elegant Georgian townhouse sits right on the edge of the forest, and is also close enough to walk into town.
Its sophisticated and stylish interiors, and crisp contemporary suites, have a boutique-hotel feel whilst being comfortable and inviting. The pool is a delicious plus, and you’ll enjoy the wide-ranging menu of brasserie classics served up by its in-house award-winning restaurant, 1820.
Also popular with couples, as well as anyone treating themselves to a luxury weekend wellness break, is 800-year-old Burley Manor.
Book in at their country house wellness rooms for an indulgent signature treatment, and simply sit and drink in the views overlooking the estate gardens and neighbouring deer park from the balcony of your luxurious suite. Could your weekend break in the New Forest get any better? With perhaps a little something from the well-stocked cellars here at Burley, it’s entirely possible that it could.
If what you’re hoping for is a weekend in a luxurious, laid-back countryside home-from-home, then the quaint and quirky Beaulieu Inn, in the middle of the vast open heath, is absolutely the one for you.
There are cosy bedrooms, elegant suites and some lovely garden rooms here that have more space for families – and maybe spot a friendly forest pony grazing outside!
Your canine companions are also more than welcome at Beaulieu and the other hotels featured here; they’re presented with their own goodies on arrival and there are handy ‘wash pipes’ available for muddy paws too – just the thing after walking back from a delicious Sunday lunch at The Drift, the award-winning country pub next door!
Whether you book in advance or opt for a last-minute break, each of these stunning hotels in the New Forest is easily accessible from anywhere in the UK and beyond, with excellent links via road and rail. There are also local airports at both Bournemouth and Southampton, with Heathrow and Gatwick not more than 90 minutes away along the M3 and the M3 and M25 respectively, and ferry ports in Portsmouth and Southampton.
With its woodland trails, towns and villages steeped in history, coastal attractions, and even a theme park or two, there really is something for everyone here. Whilst a weekend break in the New Forest might not be quite long enough to tick off everything on your wishlist, how wonderful to return home, recharged and uplifted, and looking forward to coming back again soon.
Stay in touch
Sign up for the latest news, events and best rates
