It’s all about ‘location, location, location’ when it comes to the Balmer Lawn Hotel set in Brockenhurst in the picturesque New Forest National Park, known for its heathland, forest trails, and native ponies.
For us it couldn’t have been better located for our family vacation, just a few minute’s drive from the oh-so-pretty chocolate-box village of Beaulieu with its picturesque river, quaint shops, boutique eateries, playground, and wild New Forest ponies and donkeys wandering freely through the streets.
Close by, you will also find Bucker’s Hard, filled with the wonders of maritime history and workers’ houses for children to explore, and the Beaulieu Motor Museum, where children and adults alike delight in all sorts of vehicles throughout history from F1 cars to vintage motorbikes, not forgetting the wonderful monorail through the buildings. Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway is a stone’s throw away, too.
The Balmer Lawn Hotel itself is a delightful country retreat tucked away in the heart of the New Forest. This historic hotel dates back to the 19th century and offers a peaceful escape whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family vacation.
It boasts a range of facilities, including an indoor pool and an outdoor pool (seasonal), gardens to explore, the Saltus Spa for a little expert pampering from ESPA-trained therapists, and some truly delicious dining at Beresfords.
Location
Situated on the outskirts of Brockenhurst, Balmer Lawn is perfectly positioned to explore New Forest’s wonders and all it has to offer. It takes a little over 2 hours to drive from central London, or under 2 hours by train.
The hotel is within walking distance of several attractions, including Beaulieu Harbour and New Forest National Park, and many walking trails start right from the hotel’s doorstep.
This excellent location allows you to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty, wildlife, and rich history, making it an ideal base for outdoor activities and sightseeing. We found there was ample parking at the hotel, which made our trip even easier.
Style & Character
Balmer Lawn combines traditional charm with a bit of modern luxury. As we entered through the modern automatic glass doors, the very helpful reception staff greeted us with a friendly smile. In front lay the grand carpeted staircase leading up to the guest rooms. To the left was the 2 Rosette Beresford’s restaurant, and to the right was the cozy Lodge Restaurant & Bar and beyond the Spa and gardens.
Originally built as a hunting lodge, the hotel has a rich history, having served as an army hospital during World War I. Today, it has been refurbished to give off a tranquil home-from-home vibe. The hotel’s architecture and interior design reflect its heritage while incorporating contemporary comforts and touches of modern design, creating a welcoming and stylish ambiance.
We enjoyed the communal spaces with brightly colored velvet chairs and sliced tree trunk polished tables. There are plenty of spaces for alfresco drinks, dining, and events or simply just for enjoying the outdoors, especially for children, like the zip wire, table tennis table, and swinging lawn chairs.
Service & Facilities
Balmer Lawn clearly focuses on providing a personalized and comfortable stay. We were greeted with a beaming smile at reception when we arrived, and any issues we had were resolved quickly and with no fuss. I always enjoy the little personal touches, like the personalized notes to both of my children waiting on their beds, which really made their stay extra special.
The hotel features a wide range of facilities, including The Saltus Spa, a serene escape with treatments performed by ESPA-trained therapists, a Finnish sauna, a jacuzzi, and an indoor and outdoor swimming pool. Next to the indoor pool, you will find the fully equipped gym with fitness equipment for those looking to stay in shape while on vacation.
The hotel lies close to numerous walking and cycling routes, perfect for exploring this stunning part of the world and there are many wonderful country pubs to while away an afternoon nearby.
Rooms
Balmer Lawn Hotel enjoys 54 rooms across three floors in various sizes and layouts to cater to all guests and party sizes. Rooms range from Standard, Superior, and Family Rooms to Luxury Rooms, not forgetting the Dog-Friendly Rooms to accommodate your four-legged family members. Some rooms even feature four-poster beds and balconies with enchanting forest views.
We stayed in a Family Room with an adjoining annex with bunk beds for our children, meaning that we could still enjoy some adult time after the children were asleep without disturbing them, which was wonderful. The décor was traditional, with dark wood hues, deep-colored carpets, and tall windows looking out over the pretty New Forest. We even saw a wild New Forest pony wandering past our window in the morning!
Food & Drink
Dining at Balmer Lawn was a highlight, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients and wonderful friendly service. We dined at Beresfords in the evening, a 2-rosette restaurant offering a refined dining experience with a menu that included delicious specials, sharing mains, sumptuous desserts, and a particularly notable cheese board.
The chicken with wild garlic pesto, roasted roquito pepper pappardelle, and mozzarella was simply delicious, and my daughters thoroughly enjoyed the extensive range of New Forest ice creams on offer for pudding.
The hotel also features The Lodge Restaurant & Bar, an outdoor dining concept with après-ski style decor, heaters, blankets, and beautiful views across the cricket green in front of the hotel. Open for lunch and dinner. It provides a cozy atmosphere for enjoying cocktails or warming up after a long day of walking and exploring.
In the morning, guests can enjoy a hot or cold buffet-style breakfast with a great range of options, hot drinks, and dishes from an a la carte menu.
The hotel also prides itself on its wholesome Sunday lunches and wonderful Afternoon Teas, which offer a delightful selection of seasonal, homemade cakes and sweets.
Conclusion
The Balmer Lawn Hotel is a standout destination in the New Forest, offering a perfect blend of comfort, history, and natural beauty.
Its prime location, elegant design, and extensive facilities make it an ideal choice for both romantic getaways and family vacations. My daughters are already asking when we can go back!
Whether indulging in the spa, exploring the countryside, or savoring the delicious cuisine, Balmer Lawn promises a memorable and rejuvenating stay.
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