Graeme Oakham

Review of New Park Manor Hotel, England

This was our second visit to this lovely hotel bet...

This was our second visit to this lovely hotel between Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst in the middle of the New Forest, and once again we weren't disappointed. Although there is a spa (which we didn't use this time) for the grown-ups, it is very much aimed at families. Our nearly three year old absolutely loved the Den with its carers and huge selection of toys, games and activities. The food is of a good standard, with the pancakes and honey going down a treat at breakfast time. The family theme is continued in the grounds with plenty of activities and play-park equipment for kids and loads of room to run around.
It's little touches though that made it special, like a bookshelf in the room with plenty of children's books (including my childhood favourite, Cops and Robbers by Janet and Allen Ahlberg, which I took great pleasure in introducing my daughter to) and the wellington boots and brollies available to borrow in the front porch.
Overall, the hotel strikes a good balance of feeling like a "posh" hotel, but with a very friendly, professional and attentive staff and without inflicting toddler guilt on us poor parents!