The Montagu Arms: A stylish countryside escape in the heart of the New Forest
There is something wonderful about a countryside staycation: cosy pub lunches, roaring fireplaces, mellow sunshine walks through carpets of leaves, and fields criss-crossed with stone walls. If you're looking to venture out into the country for an end-of-year stay, The Montagu Arms, nestled in a quiet corner of The New Forest, is the one to consider.
Dating back to 1742, this 22-bedroom country house is a rural retreat with food at its heart. Step through the oak front door, and you'll discover traditional English character, polished herringbone parquet flooring, cushiony soft sofas in the reception area and stacks of magazines to browse whilst your room is being made up.
Each bedroom suite at The Montagu Arms feels like a lovely little sanctuary. Some benefit from locally crafted four-poster beds, while others feature traditional wooden panelling and large lead-lined windows that overlook the well-groomed gardens. If you're overwhelmed with choice, we recommend checking into the Courtyard Studio Suites — nine luxury rooms that were developed in the 1920s from garages.
Surrounding a central courtyard garden, each suite is brimming with bespoke features and quintessential English charm. Inside, guests will discover a spacious seating area (sofas are made for lounging with a nightcap), an oversized claw-foot tub for soaking, complimentary decanter of seasonal gin, and interiors inspired by the flora and fauna of the New Forest national park. No detail has been forgotten here, with little luxuries including under-floor heating, The White Company miniatures and newspaper service delivered with tea in the morning.
Characterful corners are filled with contemporary charm. Textured fabrics, beautiful artwork and furniture are all sourced from local British brands, while pet owners will receive a sustainable hamper from pet brand Beco Pets in their room. Other features you'll get to enjoy include a Nespresso machine, mini bar, Bluetooth digital radio, and full-size SenSpa toiletries to take home post your stay.
The award-wining three AA Rosette Terrace Restaurant, led by Executive Chef Nathan Eades, offers a fine dining experience like no other. Championing seasonality and local Hampshire ingredients (some are picked from the hotel's bountiful kitchen garden), the menu will leave you spoilt for choice. We recommend the old Winchester cheese tartlet, roasted sea bass, crispy duck egg side, and caramelised apple pastry to finish. If time allows, stay for the tasing menu and retreat to the reception room for a late night tipple. Ask the bar manager for his cocktail recommendation — he'll whip up anything you like.
Day trips into the New Forest, bike rides around the countryside, horse riding excursions and clay pigeon shooting can all be organised via the concierge, who will also provide you with a packed lunch for the journey. If you're in the mood for something adventurous, book an afternoon bike ride with New Forest Hire. With over 140 miles of gravel tracks to explore, hiring a bike is the perfect way to weave through woodland paths and journey down off-road trails at ease. The friendly team will fit you with a helmet, the right bike and provide a map, too. If you get lost, the helpful locals don't mind getting you back on track.
Looking for a more pampered pastime? Head to the 18th century Careys Manor and SenSpa, just a 10-minute drive away, to experience its relaxing Thai spa. From the crystal steam room to the herbal sauna, the spa offers age-old traditions across 18 treatment rooms to help you unwind from the stresses of life. Once you've finished, head to the authentic Thai eatery, The Zen Garden, for a light lunch in a magical setting. Order the Plaporw (sea bream with marinated Thai herbs) and you won't be disappointed.
The Montagu Arms Hotel, Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire. SO42 7ZL. For more information, head to montaguarmshotel.co.uk.
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