Daisybank Cottage

Beyond the garden gates and gravel drive, this single-storey Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired cottage in the heart of the New Forest is such a period gem, who would guess that it housed a spacious boutique B&B? This was Ciaran and Cheryl Maher’s family home for 15 years before they opened it to guests nine years ago, and they are generous hosts, welcoming new arrivals with cupcakes. ‘We don’t think you could be disappointed with a stay here,’ readers advise. ‘From numerous DVDs, wellies and brollies, to the dressing gowns and slippers, your creature comforts are well catered for.’ The bedrooms, in shades of chocolate and cream or grey, are supplied with an espresso machine, mini-fridge, handmade chocolates and ‘lovely local toiletries’. Every room has its own appeal – a private terrace, a sleigh bed and French doors to a patio. Two are in the redesigned gardener’s cottage. A suite overlooking the front garden has Arts and Crafts features, a volcanic-limestone bath and walk-in shower. At night pop your breakfast order in a flowerpot, and wake up to home-made granola, local free-range eggs or smoked salmon, American pancakes.