Lime Wood Hotel

Lime Wood, Beaulieu Rd, Lyndhurst, Hampshire

The Herb House spa is the latest addition to this forest retreat in Lyndhurst, Hampshire, that since opening last year (after six years and millions of pounds), has made quite an impression. David Collins-designed interiors see antiques juxtaposed with quirky contemporary pieces. There is a boot room full of Hunter wellies (so you can make the most of forest walks) and mini-scooters for the kids. A fine-dining restaurant and the relaxed Scullery put wild ingredients, local venison and home-reared beef and lamb to good use. Open early November, the Herb House spa offers leisure facilities, as well as a ‘raw bar’ serving salads and items from the hotel’s smokehouse. Doubles from £245.