New Forest Escapes: The Balmer Lawn Hotel
By David Powell
THERE ARE few corners of England where time seems to slow down quite like the New Forest. One moment visitors are winding through narrow lanes framed by ancient oaks, the next they are stopping to let a herd of ponies or cows amble across the road as if they own the place – and in truth, they do.
In this landscape of heath, woodland and wandering wildlife, the Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa offers a welcoming retreat at the heart of one of Britain’s most beautiful regions. I recently made a personal visit with my wife where we enjoyed a luxury room with a balcony at the front of the hotel; which overlooked the sweeping lawn, cricket pitch and forest beyond where ponies and deer can often be seen grazing.
A Grand Hotel with History
Located on the outskirts of Brockenhurst, Balmer Lawn is an elegant hotel that blends together Edwardian charm with modern comfort. This lovely hotel has seen more than a century and a half of history since originally being built as a hunting lodge in the mid-1800s. It later served as a military hospital during both World Wars before settling into life as a luxury retreat for those seeking relaxation and a touch of old-fashioned hospitality.
This luxurious hotel comes with a homely touch as polished oak floors, open fires and a range of soft lighting help to create a relaxed ambience. Visitors will also be immediately surrounded by the natural beauty of the New Forest including the 220 square miles of protected woodland, heath and meadow; which can further be explored by visitors if they wish to capture some of the lovely landscape on offer throughout this area.
Dining with Local Flair
Food is a serious affair here. The hotel’s award-winning, Beresford’s Restaurant, is proudly established in the region with dishes showcasing both New Forest and Hampshire produce. The team work closely with trusted suppliers sourcing ingredients locally, ethically and sustainably wherever possible.
Two wonderful meals were enjoyed in this delightful restaurant with first class service being matched by a wine list that encourages lingering over dinner rather than rushing through it! Their daily New Forest breakfast was also wonderful and served daily, as well as being a huge personal recommendation from myself to any visitors.
An alternative dining venue is the Lodge Terrace and Bar; an ideal facility for relaxed lunches or an afternoon tea depending on the visitor’s tastes. On cooler evenings, a log fire and a good glass of red make the perfect pairings; whilst it was truly a joy to relax on the terrace before dinner as we had a couple of days of excellent weather.
The New Spa and Wellness Centre
The hotel has recently unveiled their brand-new Spa & Wellness Centre blending nature-inspired design with state-of-the-art facilities, creating the perfect space for rest, rejuvenation, and reconnection. Treatments and facilities include a Finnish Sauna, Steam Room, Ice Room and Rainforest & Monsoon Showers for visitors to sample.
There are six individual treatment rooms with a dual suite, offering ESPA rituals tailored to individual needs. The Relaxation Area further offers a serene space to unwind and reconnect before or after a treatment; whilst private changing and shower rooms are also available designed for comfort and privacy.
The Call of the Forest
Designated as a National Park in 2005, the New Forest still feels delightfully untamed. William the Conqueror claimed it as a royal hunting ground nearly one thousand years ago and in many ways hasn’t changed much since then. Ponies, donkeys, cattle and even pigs roam freely in the areas; thus giving a living reminder of its ancient ‘commoning’ rights.
The best way to explore is at a gentle pace with footpaths and cycle trails threading in every direction from Brockenhurst, linking picturesque villages such as Lyndhurst and Burley (famous for its witchcraft). Visitors can hire bikes in the village and ride through peaceful woodland or set off on foot across open heathland where the views stretch for miles!
Motoring Through History at Beaulieu
A short drive from the hotel brings you to Beaulieu, one of the New Forest’s star attractions and home to the world-famous National Motor Museum. It is always an enjoyable site where more than 280 vehicles chart the evolution of motoring – from early pioneers and elegant Rolls-Royces to record- breakers like Bluebird.
Exhibits include “We Had One of Those”, “Streets Ahead” from the 1950’s to 1970’s and full of nostalgia, “On Screen Cars” and more. Interactive exhibits, vintage films and displays of motoring memorabilia make it a fascinating stop for all ages, which was particularly enjoyable on our trip as “Icons of Formula 1” were on display including a formula 1 simulator.
The wider Beaulieu estate offers plenty more to explore with visitors able to wander through the ruins of Beaulieu Abbey (founded in 1204) before stepping inside Palace House, a site that is still home to the Montagu family. Guides in Victorian dress help to bring the mansion’s history to life, while the beautifully kept gardens and riverside walks complete the picture.
Coastal Charm Close By
If visitors have time to venture further, the New Forest coast adds another dimension to their stay. The market town of Lymington lies just 15 minutes away, with its cobbled streets, harbour views and weekly market. From the quay, ferries cross to the Isle of Wight, while yachts bob up and down in the marina as seagulls wheel overhead.
Conclusion
Both my wife and I had a great break in this location, which is a special place whichever season visitors choose to visit. Peace, tranquillity and relaxation are key words for the area, whilst it is a personal recommendation to escape to Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa. It’s a great hotel in a super location that could be explored over multiple trips with rooms costing approximately £160 each night for two adults; whilst the hotel is also dog friendly at an additional cost of £25 per night.
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PICTURED BY DAVID POWELL: Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa is a great hotel in a super location for exploration of the New Forest, which was designated as a National Park in 2005.
