I never thought I would say this, but on this visit, I could see myself becoming somewhat of a country bumpkin!
Breathing in the country air as I rolled up to Balmer Lawn Hotel, I immediately felt tranquil and ready to enjoy all the perks of the hotel which is nestled in the New Forest. With autumnal landscapes and tall trees for miles, it’s a stunning scene to wake up to and the hotel stands firm over Brockenhurst Cricket Club.
This charming, dog-friendly hotel boasts 54 rooms (all vary in style and size), onsite restaurant, lodge bar (which is reminiscent of an alpine lodge), as well as a spa which includes an indoor pool, sauna and jacuzzi. On the grounds, there are also lots of outdoor activities to hand and a fun zip wire! Sadly, it was raining so I didn’t get to test this out! Another highlight and fabulous reason to visit during the warmer months is the heated, outdoor pool.
Despite the modern, revamped appearance of the hotel’s exterior, Balmer Lawn dates back to the 19th Century and was previously a hunting lodge. The hotel was commandeered during both WW1 and WW2 and then, the property was transformed into a hotel in the late 1940s.
There are even some artefacts adorning the walls on the ground floor which were found under the floorboards, so during your visit you can easily learn more about the history of this fascinating venue while roaming around.
The spa is popular with lots of treatments on offer and in your room, you are left robes and slippers, so you are ready to roll seamlessly into wellness mode! All leisure facilities are open 7am to 9pm daily and the jacuzzi is one of the bubbliest I’ve ever been in!
The onsite, fine dining AA rosette restaurant – Beresfords, serves up some truly scrumptious food and offers a sizeable wine list. All staff are confident with their recommendations when helping you decide what to eat. The Twice Baked Smoked Pancetta Souffle is outta this world(!), and on Sundays they offer roast dinner options with a talented pianist playing while you dine.
Breakfast is both a continental buffet and choice of hot food. You can construct your own full English and I urge you to make sure you add sausages!
Balmer Lawn Hotel literally has every base covered for guests of all ages for the ultimate New Forest escape!
Review and Images by Zoe Laing @zozogrameats
