Heathfield Estate

Amber, the house manager, deserves a special thank you. She met us when we arrived, made sure we were settled in happily, then left us to enjoy our time. Nothing was too much trouble. We chose Heathfield House for my landmark birthday, with close family and longtime friends, after seeing an article about it in House and Gardens magazine. We visited before booking and knew as soon as we walked through the front door that it was right. It looks lovely online, but even better in person. Our guests complimented the decor, grounds, and quality of the rooms and linens, and none of us wanted to leave. We had caterers look after us over the long weekend, though the stunning, well-equipped kitchen would suit anyone wanting to cook for themselves. There was lots of room indoors and out. One evening we ate in the formal dining room, and we also enjoyed the more relaxed outdoor dining areas. It was just perfect.

We had a warm, cozy stay in the coach house, with all the amenities needed to feel at home. There’s a local cat, Pickles, who even came by to say hello! The place is beautiful and relaxing, and the walks in the New Forest were a favourite, with animals roaming freely. It’s centrally located, with plenty of good restaurants a drive away. We were able to visit the coast and fit in tourist stops at Salisbury and Winchester cathedral, along with the Christmas markets, all in one day.

We loved the spacious sitting rooms with their open fires, and the main house’s long dining table can seat up to 30. The bedrooms are beautiful, nearly all with en suite bathrooms. This is a fantastic place for a big group of friends to get together. The small touches meant a lot too, from the biscuits and cakes on arrival to the surprise birthday cake. We’d definitely come back.

Magnolia Cottage made my 45th birthday truly amazing. My family joined me during our 10-day stay and had a great time too. They live two hours from London and already want to come back for longer. The cottage has two cozy bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, plus a great lounge and dining area. Mark, the friendly and accommodating estate manager, was available when we needed help, which was reassuring. The weather was changeable, as it is across England, but the back garden was a suntrap on the gorgeous days. I also loved watching the sunset through the trees from the front garden. Many an evening, I sat in the hot tub listening to the birds wind down as the sky changed colour. On the Heathfield Estate, you’re surrounded by the New Forest’s magic, from local villages to hoofed and winged wildlife. Nearby attractions and amenities were a quick drive away: fish and chips on the beach, the deer sanctuary, and Sammy Miller's motorcycle museum. I’ll definitely return to explore the New Forest more, as I barely scratched the surface, especially when it comes to fudge, places to eat, and walks.