Planning a luxury getaway for the new year? Then leafy Hampshire, which is home to some of the finest hotels in the country, is a great choice for a short break or mini staycation. The perfect blend of city, coast and country, this scenic county, which is blessed natural history and heritage as well as the picturesque beauty of not one, but two national parks – not to mention a thriving foodie scene, truly has got it all.
Some of the major cities you’ll find here include Southampton – home to the famous annual Southampton Boat Show and the Southampton cruise port, making it the perfect stopover if you’re heading off on a cruise – and shipping city, Portsmouth, which also has plenty to offer visitors.
But, if you’re looking for somewhere a little more off the beaten track, then good news, because with its rolling hills and natural beauty, there’s a luxury Hampshire hotel to suit everyone.
Here, we take a look at some of the very finest five-star accommodation choices the county has to offer, all that’s left to do is take your pick.
Chewton Glen, New Forest – from £395 per night
A traditional country house hotel located in the picturesque New Forest, Chewton Glen comprises a range of classic rooms and suites alongside contemporary treehouse suites, making it a unique choice that is perfect for those in search of something a little different.
Here, you’ll also find a world class restaurant and spa as well as a nine-hole golf course set amongst its sprawling grounds, and thanks to its proximity to Southampton, Bournemouth and the M3, it’s an easily accessible destination for a weekend break. Take a stroll through the woods to Naish Beach for a spectacular view of the iconic Needles landmark towering upwards from the sea.
Heckfield Place, Hook – from £300 per night
This Georgian country house, which belongs to billionaire Gerald Chan, is set in an enormous 400 acres of grounds, comprising woodland, gardens, lakes and even a biodynamic farm. Just an hour’s drive from London, rooms are cosy yet sophisticated. Facilities of note include the luxurious cinema room and a lavish spa.
Outdoor types will love exploring the estate, and can indulge in a spot of walking, cycling, and even wild swimming. The perfect choice for those looking for a countrified break from the big smoke without the need to travel far.
Southampton Harbour Hotel and Spa, Southampton – from £165 per night
Southampton is a cruise ship city, with many embarking from its famed port each and every week. The Southampton Harbour Hotel and Spa is an ode to this fact, and is built to look just like a cruise ship itself, offering sweeping ocean views and a range of luxury facilities including a hot tub, pool and sauna. If you’re looking for the luxury crusie treatment on land, then look no further, or book a stay here the night before you embark to get an early taste of ocean life.
Lime Wood, New Forest – from £395 per night
You might be sensing a pattern by now in that some of Hampshire’s finest hotels tend to come in the shape of refined country houses, and Lime Wood is no different. As you arrive via its sweeping driveway, the hotel’s manicured grounds set the scene for what lies within this quintessential Georgian house; a pretty and unpretentious bolthole that has everything you’d expect from a luxury stay and more.
The ultimate choice for a spot of weekend rest and relaxation, you’ll want to take advantage of the spa and hydrotherapy sessions on offer here. Lyndhurst is just a 15-minute walk away, or a six-mile walk to its sister property, The Pig.
The Pig, Brockenhurst, New Forest – from £219 per night
If you’ve heard this name before then you might already be familiar with one of the more recent incarnations of this immensely successful brand, which have sprung up in locations around the country, including Cornwall. This one is the original, and some may say that it’s still the best. The main house dates back to the 1900s, and its irresistible charm is seen everywhere from its cosy lounges to its classy rooms and suites.
Service is relaxed, but still as impeccable as you’d expect from a luxury establishment such as this.
With such an exciting selection of beautiful luxury hotels to choose from in Hampshire, you’re bound to find something that ticks all the right boxes, and here at LLM, we believe that these are some of the very best.
Image at the very top of the article: The Pig, Brockenhurst
