Chewton Glen

Hotel review

Chewton Glen has been loved for decades and is now quietly polishing its edges with a design-led refresh that feels entirely in keeping with its heritage: classic at heart, fresh in its finish, and set in 130 acres of New Forest greenery a short stroll from the coast and quiet Naish Beach. The recent renovation by Goddard Littlefair has given the old girl a lovely glow. Parquet underfoot, velvet sofas you actually sink into, bespoke furniture, and a soothing sweep of lavender and green tweeds and herringbones. Fires crackle in the hall, bar and sitting rooms. The bar wraps you in deep burgundy and generous armchairs. Service is calm and natural; from the moment the porters welcome you and open the door.

I stayed in Room 6, Jacob Faithful, which looks over the croquet lawn and feels properly grown up. There’s a separate sitting room, blackout curtains, pretty wallpaper and a marble bathroom with a bath and in-bath TV, separate shower, twin basins and a bidet. Turn-down arrives when you need it. Full-size Hildon water bottles are topped up and there’s a thoughtful and generous pantry with hot chocolate, Birchall teas and little irresistible treats. 

Dining at Chewton Glen gives you two clear moods. James Martin’s The Kitchen is lively and relaxed with an open kitchen. It's a short walk or buggy ride from the main house, with moules, burgers and perfectly cooked steaks that hit the spot, perfect for family dining. Back at the hotel, the renovated Dining Room, (more suited to adults) is chic without trying too hard, with a light conservatory if you like a buzz, or a quieter, atmospheric corner if you don’t. The sole meunière, finished and served at the table, is a highlight, as is the T-bone to share. The wine menu is varied, expansive and has been created by a passionate wine buff with Tignanello, Ornellaia and Sassicaia featuring amongst other classics. Executive Chef Luke Matthews keeps the menus rooted in the estate and the nearby coast, using produce grown a few steps away. Breakfast is a feast with a buffet featuring everything from homemade Bircher muesli, granola, hams, cheeses, pastries, yoghurts, chia puddings, fruits and you can make yourself a bloody or virgin mary - a great touch. The à la carte menu is a new addition and includes British favourites - no Full English here, you can pick and choose exactly what you would like, pancakes and porridge are on the menu too. Much of the ingredients come from the walled and kitchen garden, run by Estate Manager Darren Venables. It’s magical at dusk under fairy lights and supplies the kitchens with herbs and vegetables.

Service across the hotel is confident but unshowy; Zul glides through the drawing rooms and seems to know what you want before you ask, from pastries to oysters to a late cheese board. His chai masala is excellent. In the bar, the charming Georgie and James shake sharp cocktails, and Corrie will point you to his favourite beach walk.

The spa, which opens at 6.30am during the week, is due a refresh but still gives you a soothing day and a great selection of pampering treatments. There’s a heated indoor pool, hydrotherapy pool, Technogym and a simple, healthy spa menu at lunchtime and delicious wellness drinks and teas during the day. Treatments use British brands such as Oskia and the newer Decree. If you’d rather be outside, follow the estate trails, play a nine-hole round of golf or head to the shore for sea air. Tennis players can choose between two indoor carpet courts and outdoor courts. There are bikes to use, archery on site, and you can book paddleboarding down at the beach. If you're staying a few days, the cookery school at The Kitchen is worth your time if you like to roll up your sleeves in the kitchen.

Chewton Glen works well for families. Both restaurants have children’s menus, The Beehive Club is set in a playful treehouse den, there are family swimming sessions, and bedrooms are big enough to sleep properly. Dogs are welcome in certain areas too, so four-legged friends don’t miss out.

If you’re here for a couple of nights, make time for a pre-dinner hour in the burgundy bar, a swim, and that gentle walk to the beach, which leads the way to Highcliffe Castle. Weddings can be set in the gardens or even in a treehouse, which feels very Chewton Glen. Classic country-house comfort with exceptional hospitality, modern polish, serious food and a team who have passion and take real pleasure in looking after you. 

Lulu Townsend