Rhinefield House, Brockenhurst, New Forest

In the heart of the New Forest, a dramatic setting at the best of times, with its free roaming livestock, including ponies and donkeys. Rhinefield House goes a step further and is positioned at the end of an ornamental drive of giant redwood trees lined with colourful azaleas and rhododendrons; it doesn't get more impressive than this. The forest is on your doorstep, while the bustling towns of Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst are each just a ten-minute drive away.

By car: the hotel is 30 mins from Southampton, 2 hours 20 mins from London and 2 hours 40 mins from Birmingham. There is free parking on-site.

By train: Brockenhurst station is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The journey takes 13 mins from Southampton and 1 hour 40 mins from London Waterloo. Book trains to Brockenhurst.

There's so much period detail to love in this hotel, although the building has been added to and extended, so you can find parts of the hotel that feel more modern. The wood panelling in the Armada restaurant is particularly impressive and includes a carved frieze of the Elizabethan battle above the pink marble fireplace.

Service can be patchy at busy times, particularly with a full dining room at breakfast, but the reception staff are always warm and welcoming. The health club is small, and the spa is bijou; better to make use of the bikes and explore the stunning surroundings.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Swimming pools
• Gardens
• Terrace
• Spa
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are mainly furnished in a woodland palette of greens, mustards and browns and many have views of the forest or garden. The furnishings are contemporary with a few period flourishes and some have marble bathrooms and air-conditioning. For full period flouncing, opt for one of the suites in the main house.

Room types: Classic, Executive, The Munro Suite, The Walker Suite, The Heron Suite

Key amenities: ensuite with shower over bath, Gilchrist and Soames toiletries, tea and coffee-making facilities, magazines, TV, free Wi-Fi

The a la carte menu makes good use of local produce, with dishes such as rabbit leg and loin and 28-day aged Hampshire venison. A vegan menu provides three options for each course and more relaxed bistro-style food can be enjoyed in the conservatory, lounge or terrace.

The Armada Restaurant: classic British dishes, fine dining, local produce, vegan menu. Open every day for dinner. Mains from £17.

The Conservatory: seasonal dishes, sandwiches, platters, pizzas, afternoon tea. Open every day noon-9pm. Mains from £13.50.