A stay at Lime Wood is every foodie’s dream. Leanne Kelsall explains why…
The low-down on Lime Wood
Lime Wood is a sublime country-house hotel loved by many an A-lister, in the heart of the New Forest. Boutique service and attention to detail are top of the agenda. Inside, the dreamy décor blends forest-inspired interiors with glamour. There’s a famous restaurant and one of the best spas in the country. Kids are welcome and dogs too, for a small fee.
Go on…
First impressions don’t get grander. Outside the imposing limestone façade, ushers dressed head-to-toe in tweed are waiting to park your car and carry your bags.
As you enter the reception, you’re welcomed by a crackling fire and the most wonderful-smelling botanicals.
Just off the reception is a games room with pool balls so immaculately polished that you won’t want to disturb them (although you’re encouraged to – this is your home from home). The hallway is magnificent, with an oak leaf chandelier hanging above a sweeping staircase.
We stayed in a two-floor Forest Suite in the grounds of the hotel. There are 32 rooms in total, ranging from opulent doubles to spectacular cottages. It didn’t take us long to settle in, with a preloaded iPod playing, lights set low and a hand-written note welcoming us to Lime Wood.
Upstairs in our beautifully-chic bedroom and bathroom, cushions were plumped, gold taps gleaming and luxury Bamford toiletries laid out.