Fodor's Expert Review Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa

Christchurch Rd., New Milton, Hampshire, BH25 6QS, England Fodor's Choice

This grand early-19th-century country-house hotel and spa on 130 acres of manicured grounds ranks among Britain's most acclaimed—and most expensive—lodgings. All rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated using rich fabrics; many have a balcony or terrace, and all ooze luxury. Romantics might want to try one of the 12 secluded "treehouse" suites in the woods. The lavish spa is particularly strong on facials and has a large and elegant pool. The restaurant, the Dining Room at Chewton Glen, concentrates on a combination of grilled meats and more plant-based or Asian-influenced dishes, with a choice of more than 700 wines (there's also a less formal gastro-pub and pool bar). Besides the usual golf and tennis (on indoor or outdoor courts), family-friendly leisure activities such as archery, falconry, and pony-grooming are available, along with guided bike rides in the forest or kayaking. There's also a self-contained cooking school and a tree house kids' club. A 20-minute walk through the grounds takes you down to the coast. Chewton Glen is 12 miles southwest of Lyndhurst on the A35.

PROS

  • classic English luxury
  • top-notch leisure facilities
  • high staff-to-guest ratio

CONS

  • expensive rates
  • somewhat lacking in atmosphere
  • food could be better

QUICK FACTS

Hotel
Family
$$$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 01425-282212

HOTEL DETAILS

70 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals

What’s Nearby