Lime Wood

A morning mist rises through the trees in New Forest; cows graze, and ponies wander about, occasionally flapping their tails. This is how most mornings begin at Lime Wood, set in New Forest Park, a short distance from Lyndhurst. The hotel's 13th-century architecture creates a warm character that is only bettered by the contemporary interior and exterior additions. Out from most of the 14 rooms and 15 suites, trees seem so close you feel you could reach out and touch them. Inside, log fires of wood-burning stoves crackle and pop well into the night. iPods and docks lay down the soundtrack to your room's events, which may include a soak in your freestanding tub.

The Herb House Spa whips up a little magic in the forest via indoor pool, hydro pool, outdoor hot tub, rooftop technogym, and couples' treatment rooms.

Once you've sunk deep into a relaxed state of mind, you may be ready for a nosh. Choose from the informal Scullery, with its painted wooden floors and country-house-kitchen-like atmosphere, or The Dining Room, where hungry guests can enjoy fresh and local dishes at the Chef's table - without any of the pretension that usually comes with the territory.