Courtesy of Heckfield Place

A stunning piece of English history redefining country hotels in Hampshire is Heckfield Place, an elegant Georgian manor that has been lovingly restored into a contemporary retreat enveloped by 438 acres of idyllic Hampshire countryside. The large bucolic grounds include the hotel’s biodynamic Home Farm farm supplying fruits, vegetables, along with activies like wild swimming in the lake, rowing boats onto the lower lake, fishing, falconer, biking, hiking and more.

In the House and the Corridors, each bedroom offers a different aspect and connection to the grounds. From bespoke English oak furniture to mats handwoven from rushes harvested on the River Ouse, their comfort and character is written in the natural materials and meticulous craftsmanship found throughout. Each day sublime produce is drawn from the Home Farm and gardens to be simply prepared and served in Heckfield’s restaurants.

Stroll through the concealed entrance in the walled garden to discover The Bothy the spa. Even within this space, you can relish the surroundings – whether from the outdoor hot tub, through the glass walls surrounding the infinity pool, or the sauna. Situated at the periphery of ancient woodlands, the oak terrace seamlessly blends with the waters, featuring a double-sided open fireplace. A reclaimed timber deck leads to hydrotherapies – bathed in sunlight yet shielded from the breeze – offering serene views across rolling hills towards the guernsey cows and tithe barn at the home farm.

Courtesy of Chewton Glen

Set in 130 acres of Hampshire countryside, the 18th century luxury Country House Hotel is one of the best hotels in Hampshire. Chewton Glen offers the perfect combination of country and coast. Renowned for their treehouse suites, nestled high upon stilts among the tree canopies, the treehouses feature floor to ceiling windows, vaulted ceilings, secret bunk rooms, wood burners, and hot tubs on the large hardwood decks. The Yews, is the largest Treehouse Suite and the most secluded yet.

The main manor house sits amidst rambling mature gardens, an idyllic nine-hole golf course, and a babbling stream, with ancient woods just beyond. All the rooms are individually decorated with a combination of antique and contemporary furniture. The Marryat suite in particular is the largest suite at Chewton Glen and is in fact, the bedroom and lounge of the original 18th Century manor house. Gorgeous views of the lawns and parkland are afforded by the large private terrace.

Chewton Glen also houses the award-winning spa and cookery school by James Martin. Amongst the hotels in Hampshire, Chewton Glen is perfect for families thanks to the Beehive Kids Club which is purpose-built Treehouse with a programme of activities to keep children entertained whilst their parents enjoy a little down time. Additionally, a peaceful stroll through these tranquil hotel grounds leads to the nearby Beach.

Related: Best Luxury Hotels in New Forest 

Courtesy of Lime Wood 

Set in the heart of the stunning New Forest National Park, just an hour and a half drive from London, Lime Wood offers laid back luxury at its finest. Distinguished as best hotels in Hampshire, this country house hotel exudes refined elegance yet maintains an inviting, unpretentious ambiance. Situated at the end of a long driveway often lined with freely roaming horses, is the 18th-century Georgian manor house.

Lime Wood’s 33 bedrooms are spread throughout the main house and 17 separate lodges nestled within the grounds, each one uniquely designed with Susie Atkinson’s signature countryside-chic aesthetic. The Lake cabin is nestled on the far side of the lake at the end of a winding private pathway it is like being on your own private little island. The Pavillion lodge, has been designed exclusively with couples in mind and comes with a private terrace along with forest views.

The draw for many lies in the Herb House spa, situated over 3 floors overlooking the forest, it is an oasis featuring both indoor and outdoor hot pools, surrounded by lush foliage. Adding to the allure is the Italian restaurant, Hartnett Holder & Co, a culinary destination crafted by the renowned duo Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder, the restaurant has become a standalone attraction in its own right. The most amazing thing about this property is that you have direct access to the forest so you can nip out for a walk and explore the surrounding. 

Courtesy of The Pig 

Spanning approximately seven acres set far back from the main road, The Pig New Forest feels like an authentic rural escape, enveloped by the majestic New Forest National Park waiting to be explored. Occupying a 17th-century farmhouse dating back to 1634, The Pig is amongst the best hotels in Hampshire, featuring a sprawling lawn with a romantic double swing suspended from a grand oak tree fronts the outdoor terrace.

Featuring 32 unique rooms, 16 rooms in the main house and 10 additional rooms in the renovated stable yards, along with four lodges, cabins, Bert’s Box, and the Forest Hut. The English country house aesthetic shines through with vintage furnishings, quirky artwork, and wellies lined up in the front hall for countryside adventures.

The biggest draw here is the food, serving British Kitchen Garden food the menu changes by the minute, depending on what the forager supplies and what the Kitchen Garden team deems to be in perfect condition. All the dishes are hearty, unpretentious and delicious. Overall, the laid-back atmosphere and the welcoming hospitality has the ability to make you feel at home away from home.

Courtesy of Crown Manor House Hotel

The Crown Manor House Hotel is steeped in history and occupies it’s commanding position at the top of Lyndhurst High Street, the capital of the New Forest. Originally built in the 15th century, this striking black and white timbered hotel has undergone thoughtful renovations over the years, evolving from modest beginnings into the beautiful expansive listed building seen today. The central location offers easy access to all the town’s shops, restaurants, and bars, while the New Forest is footsteps away.

The hotel itself is bursting with quintessential English charm, from real log fires to tranquil gardens. All 50 exceptionally appointed rooms, including some with four poster beds, blend period details with modern amenities. The award-winning on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner showcasing meticulously sourced local delicacies, while afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the walled garden. For those seeking the best value for money hotels in Hampshire, The Crown Manor House Hotel is a standout option.

Courtesy of Rhinefield House Hotel

Known locally as the ‘Jewel in the Forest’, Rhinefield House is one of the best hotels in Hampshire steeped in natural beauty hidden deep within the New Forest National Park. In fact, it is one of the only hotels in Brockenhurst.This imposing Tudor-Gothic estate is as majestic within as its stately façade suggests.

Each of the 50 rooms feature touches that echo the historical charm of this country house and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows inviting the beauty of the New Forest indoors. The Mastersuite in particular boasts big bay windows which affords you unparalleled views of the hotel’s ornamental ponds, manicured gardens and the New Forest beyond.

The hotel has plenty of other strong features, including fine dining and a spa. Enjoy modern British cuisine at the hotel’s two restaurants, each offering a different style. The Armada Restaurant is full of period charm, wood paneling, and tall ceilings. The Conservatory, on the other hand, is bright and airy, with a relaxing environment and views of the gardens.

Courtesy of Balmer Lawn

Nestled in the heart of the New Forest, Balmer Lawn enjoys an ideal location with direct access to the New Forest, Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst’s shops, and cafes are also right at the doorstep. Built in the 19th century, Alison and Chris Wilson (the owners), over the last 25 years, have refurbish the hotel into a tranquil home-from-home whilst still retains its original character.

Situated on three acres of lovely gardens and grounds, the hotel is enveloped on three sides by the stunning beauty of the New Forest National Park. The rooms are traditionally styled with carved four-poster beds, antique-style furniture, and WWII documents displayed on the walls. Rooms at the front and sides boast breathtaking views sweeping over the forest, some of the ‘luxury rooms’ have their own private balconies overlooking the lawn and its cricket matches during the summer.

The two AA-rosette Beresfords restaurant impresses with artful presentations and bold flavors. Between the prime location that you to immerse in the New Forest’s charms, paired with cosy rooms and fantastic dining, ranks Balmer Lawn among the best hotels in Hampshire.

Courtesy of The Montagu Arms Hotel

Tucked into the quiet corner of Beaulieu village on the southeastern fringe of the New Forest National Park, The Montagu Arms Hotel is amongst the best hotels in Hampshire that sits between Beaulieu River and the town of Beaulieu’s High Street. The location puts the hotel in the perfect spot for exploring the New Forest.

The rooms span across the elegant main house, a converted barn, and original chauffeur garages. In the Gertrude Jekyll-inspired gardens are the Hayloft suites and Courtyard Rooms and Suites which features a four poster bed, an overside bath tub and garden views.

The acclaimed 3 AA Rosette Terrace Restaurant draws inspiration from the surroundings of the New Forest and features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Gertrude Jekyll-inspired gardens. While Monty’s Inn provides elevated pub fare in a relaxed setting daily. Whilst staying at The Montagu Arms Hotel you will have complimentary access to the SenSpa at the sister hotel Careys Manor which is loacted just 6 miles away.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hampshire 

Set in a beautifully restored 18th-century manor in the English countryside lies one of the best hotels in Hampshire – Four Seasons Hampshire. Situated on 500 acres of pristine countryside, the hotel grounds allow for an unrivalled sense of escape with unlimited access to nature, wildlife and unique outdoor experiences such as horseback riding, clay pigeon shooting, and archery.

All the rooms and suites exude quintessential English charm with tranquil floral patterns, neutral earthy tones, wood furnishings, and picturesque views overlooking the manicured grounds and gardens. The magnificent indoor conservatory lap pool takes center stage at the spa. The outdoor vitality pool is complete with water massage features and surrounded by sun terrace. While the Highwire Adventure obstacle course and Sharkie’s Reef water features deliver plenty of excitement for kids.

Dining options abound with the British cuisine at Wild Carrot restaurant, weekend sushi at Café Sante, and al fresco pizzas at La Terrazza. Families in particular love this New Forest hotel thanks to the Sharkie’s Reef pool in addition to plethora of activies.

Courtesy of Careys Manor Hotel/SenSpa

Tucked into the charming village of Brockenhurst at the heart of the New Forest, Careys Manor Hotel provides an idyllic country spa retreat. The charming 18th-century manor house boasts grand architectural details paired with a more modern, laidback feel offering contemporary charm within its storied walls.

Uniquely decirated rooms range from Garden Rooms which feature a terrace or balcony, to Manor Rooms in the 18th century Manor house, suites with four poster beds to self catering cottages. Among the myriad of luxury hotels in Hampshire, Careys Manor Hotel is a standout gem with an unexpected Asian-inspired flair.

The Thai-influenced SenSpa spreads over impressive 22,000-square-foot and features a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, and sauna, offering treatments spanning traditional massages to high-tech sensory sound and light experiences aimed at holistic relaxation. Dining also reflects global influences with the Thai Zen Garden, French brasserie Le Blaireau, and contemporary British Cambrium restaurant.

Courtesy of Lainston House

Lainston House radiates a magical aura, from the alluring lime tree-lined avenue welcoming you to the charming 17th-century facade, to the scent of woodsmoke and herbs that float through the air. Set in 63 acres of beautiful Hampshire parkland, with lofty reception rooms anchored by roaring fires and wood paneling, Lainston House epitomizes English countryside grandeur.

As you arrive through the courtyard, the graceful archways and loggias form a captivating frame for the flawless entrance, while a short stroll unveils the charming remains of a 12th-century chapel. 50 uniquely designed rooms and suites fill the 17th-century mansion. The Hot Tub Room in particular is one of a kind at Lainston with it’s very own private hot tub on its terrace over looking the chapel ruins. While the Loggia Suites offer direct access to the gardens.

While the foundations reveal even earlier origins, this historic Hampshire estate is far from stuck in the past. Adventure awaits within its classic framework, like walking trails, Test Valley fly fishing, and the hands-on cookery school Season. Offering a quintessential English countryside retreat, Lainston House is amongst one of the best best hotels in Hampshire.

Courtesy of New Park Manor

Nestled right in the heart of the New Forest, New Park Manor is one of the best hotels in Hampshire that puts families first. With a very rich history dating all the way to the 15th century New Park Manor grounds have seen prehistoric horses grazing to Kings and Queens roaming the woodland. It was once a a favorite hunting lodge of King Charles II, today it  seamless blend of contemporary style and caters to all families.

Every room here is uniquely charming, there is something to accommodate everyone here. With rooms for 2 adult to the Deer Park Suite which accommodates 2 adults and 5 kids and offers far-reaching views of the gardens and the New Forest. The big highlight for the families here is the OFSTED registered kids’ club The Four Bears Den, which is a hub of entertainment for children aged 3-months -8 years.

Additionally, there are family cookery classes to Forest School inspired Nature Adventures along with a whole host of seasonal events both on-site and further afield. Follow woodland trails and spot resident deer and ponies or visit the idyllic picnic spots in the summer months. The family friendly aspect extends to the spa where children are encouraged to relax, just like adults.

Courtesy of Southampton Harbour Hotel

Providing an experience akin to being on the open sea while firmly on dry land, this hotel situated in the Ocean Village Marina mirrors the elegance of being on a yacht. Anchored on the south coast overlooking the Isle of Wight, Southampton Harbour Hotel features tiered, deck like terraces overlooking the Solent.

All the rooms feature soothing pale blue or apple green colour schemes, abstract art and water views. Some of the rooms come with their own private balconies. For the boat spotters out there, binoculars can be found in every room. If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury, choose the Marina View Suite and take in the spectacular 180-degree panoramic terrace view.

The indoor heated pool is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the marina. HarBAR on the 6th floor is a greatr rooftop spot for some sundonwers whilst super-yacht-spotting. Chef Patron Alex Aitken brings his unique flair to The Jetty, the menu that features a host of locally-caught seafood all perfectly paired with stunning marina views.

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