Chewton Glen

Imagine a luxurious resort with spa, pools, tennis, kids’ club – even a cookery school – at a quintessentially English country house, and you’ve captured the enduring appeal of Chewton Glen. Readers struggle for superlatives: ‘Beautiful hotel, wonderful food, great cellar.’ ‘Chewton Glen is a gorgeous oasis in the New Forest with fantastic facilities.’ With 130 acres of woodland, gardens and parkland as well, there’s no need to leave this five-star cocoon. Relax in an elegant lounge or around the refurbished, gleaming-white spa pool – or outdoor pool, if you prefer. Bedrooms are elegant country house with marble bathrooms, many with balcony or terrace. Some have a contemporary edge – stripped-wood floor, shots of bold colour – while the ‘amazing’ treehouse suites are sharply modern, with hot tubs and log-burners, ‘perfect in every way’. Both restaurants are ‘superb’: The Dining Room with traditional fine dining such as steaks and lobster, and the breezier Kitchen with gourmet burgers and fish platters. With ‘outstanding’ service throughout, it’s ‘the ultimate indulgent treat!’ (Tim Mitchell, Stephanie Palfreeman, AH)