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 (if you choose an autumn break), and fields crisscrossed with stone walls.
If you're looking to venture out into the country for a rural escape, The Montagu Arms, nestled in a quiet corner of the New Forest, is the one to consider.
Dating back to 1742, this 33-bedroom, wisteria-clad country house hotel 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 while 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 choices, we recommend checking into the Courtyard Studio Suites — nine luxury rooms 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, a 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 Terrace Restaurant 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 tasting 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.
The Modern British menu changes with the seasons; elegant dishes are influenced by produce gathered from the surrounding coast and countryside, and plucked by their own kitchen gardener. If time allows, stay for afternoon tea. Served on a traditional stand that showcases thinly sliced finger sandwiches to delicate pastries and warm scones smothered with fruity jam and thick, soft clotted cream, it's the best of the best.
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 with 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 & Spa, 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.
For a perfect autumn getaway, the Montagu Arms has launched a new two-night 'Wild New Forest Break', available to book until the end of March. Guests will receive breakfast, dinner, and a guided nature walk.
Details: The Montagu Arms Hotel, Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire. SO42 7ZL.
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