Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa, Brockenhurst, New Forest

Just half a mile from the train station at Brockenhurst, where you can connect to London in an hour and a half, this is a very pretty spot in the New Forest. It's adjacent to "Brock Beach", for wild swimming in summer, and commands uninterrupted views of the village green. The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is a 15-min drive away, and the shops and bars of Lyndhurst are just seven minutes away by car, about an hour on foot.

By car: Balmer Lawn Hotel is 2 hours 15 mins from London, 2 hours 30 mins from Birmingham and just under 3 hours from Cambridge.

By train: London Waterloo to Brockenhurst takes 1 hour 30 mins. The station is a 5-minute taxi ride from the hotel. Book trains to Brockenhurst.

The smart red brick building has an impressive Mansard-style roof (which was actually added after a fire in the 1970s). Inside, reception opens out to a bar with a glowing wood-burning stove in winter, and a sunny terrace in summer. A large staircase sweeps to the upper floors and the bright dining room has floor-to-ceiling windows.

Service is relaxed and informal. Facilities include an outdoor pool and squash court and an indoor pool, jacuzzi and sauna and a small gym. Separately there's a relaxing spa. Plans are afoot to expand and unite the leisure facilities. Pick up a board game to play in the bar if the weather takes a turn.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Lounge
• Gardens
• Swimming pools
• Treatment rooms
• Pet-friendly
• Family rooms

• Free parking

• Free Wi-Fi

Some of the nicest rooms enjoy a fine view of the village green and the parade of wildlife that trots in front of the windows. In the "luxury" room category you can expect feature wallpaper, solid wood furniture, coffee machines and floral teapots.

Room types: Small Standard, Standard, Superior, Luxury, Family

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with shower, luxury toiletries, double bed, TV, tea and coffee facilities, free Wi-Fi

Food here is well presented and refined, whether you are ordering a colourful multi-tier afternoon tea on vintage china or a three-course meal in Beresfords (the menu is the same for both lunch and dinner). Breakfasts include an array of nuts and fruits in wooden bowls and kippers from the kitchen.

Beresfords: 2 AA Rosette fine dining and Bistro-style all-day dining, steaks, sandwiches, pub classics, Afternoon Tea. Open daily 12-9pm. Mains from £15. Tasting menu 6.30-8.30pm, £50pp.

The Lodge: al fresco dining, wood-fired pizzas, outdoor bar. Open weather permitting.