15 of the Best Hotels in the New Forest (2025)

This delightfully green and pleasant region of heathland and forest around the Beaulieu River is neither new, nor really much of a forest. Proclaimed a royal hunting preserve in 1079, it’s now a national park, known for its wild ponies, deer, rare birds, picturesque villages and eccentric English charm. Some of the best hotels in the New Forest have been converted from historic buildings, like the Master Builder’s, which is where some of Nelson’s ships were built, or New Park Manor, which was once a hunting lodge belonging to Charles II. But if your taste runs more to modern design, or the charm of small towns, then you might find the best hotels in the New Forest in Lymington, Brockenhurst or Beaulieu.

Close to London, but feeling like a proper visit to the country, what with all the cows and ponies just roaming around, the New Forest is a haven of rural peace and beauty. Plus there’s the slightly bumbling flow of the Beaulieu River into the ever dramatic Solent coast, and views across to the Isle of Wight. Walkers are really spoiled for choice. The New Forest is also a wonderful place for cyclists who can enjoy an ambling exploration of countryside, rather than hill challenges. 

Our collection of the best hotels in the New Forest has something for everyone, whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a food-focused stay. From charming inns to grand converted manors, the choice of hotels is broad here, so why not browse through our collection to start planning your next break?

For a historic hotel

• Historic Master Builder’s is right on the Beaulieu River outside Buckler’s Hard. Its name refers to Henry Adams and his sons Balthazar and Edward, who built ships for Nelson’s navy. You'll find a list of the ships built here in the atmospheric bar. Choose from quaint standard rooms or decadent stays in the main house. Packed full of character.
• High Corner Inn is a traditional 17th-century country inn in the heart of the New Forest. Rooms ooze old world charm with exposed beams, fireplaces and sleigh beds. There's a characterful restaurant and bar with a log fire and cosy nooks, plus a beer garden for warmer days. Ideal for a relaxed, low-key getaway.

 

For great value

• Britannia House is a five-room B&B in charming Lymington. Each of the rooms has its own design with some nice artworks, antiques and richly coloured fabrics and furnishings. They also have a separate apartment for those looking for something more private. Room rates start at £85, making this an affordable option.
• East End Arms is the village pub in East End, but with five simple, fresh rooms to rent. The restaurant has a great local reputation for seasonal treats and there’s a good choice of local ales on tap. Rooms start at £110.

For an escape to nature

• The Mill at Gordleton is a charming modern British restaurant with eight riverside rooms. This is a great place to spot wildlife, especially from the beautiful ‘secret garden’ where you can spot kingfishers and herons.

For Romance

• Rhinefield House Hotel is a grand Gothic-meets-Tudor country house within the New Forest National Park by Brockenhurst. Extensive amenities include an outdoor pool, gym, and an atmospheric restaurant serving modern British cuisine. The best rooms boast four-poster beds and rolltop bathtubs - perfect for a romantic setting.

For a coastal setting

• The Mayflower on Lymington’s marina is a smart, nautical-themed pub with six individually designed rooms - one with a private balcony. There’s a friendly vibe and a menu featuring plenty of seafood. A great base for exploring the coast or New Forest.

For Families

• Chewton Glen is just outside the New Forest near New Milton, but it’s worth including for its newly built luxury tree-house bedrooms, which offer extraordinary panoramic views over the valley and forest and will be loved by kids and adults alike. The amenities are five-star, and there’s plenty to do here in the 130 acres of parkland. 
• New Park Manor prides itself on its family-friendly facilities. The spa, swimming pool and games rooms mean that no members of the family will be bored. Everything has been considered here, including two hours of free childcare each evening!

For Foodies

• The Montagu Arms boasts the Michelin-starred Terrace Restaurant headed by chef Matthew Tomkinson. Accommodation is an "English-country-house" with some rooms featuring four-poster beds and all with views either overlooking Beaulieu Palace or the hotel's fabulous garden. A charming getaway.
• Three Lions is at the northwestern tip of the New Forest, near Fordingbridge. It’s a converted village inn, now a wonderful, chef-owned and run restaurant with seven carefully decorated rooms and a lovely garden. The highlight is the restaurant, of course, featuring gourmet food made from locally produced or foraged ingredients.
• Stanwell House is a boutique townhouse hotel in the heart of Lymington. Boasting a range of dining options, including private dining and an all-day bistro menu. The decor is contemporary and chic, and the food is modern European.
• Lime Wood is a scintillating luxury hotel in a superbly redesigned Georgian house in the heart of the New Forest. Wonderfully comfortable beds in large rooms all with unique features, including free-standing baths, fireplaces or four-posters. A sublime restaurant curated by a celebrity chef is a real lure. Perfect for a couple's getaway.

Still not sure?

• Refine your search to the best places to stay in Lymington, the best places to stay in Brockenhurst or the best places to stay in Beaulieu.
• Browse 7 of the Best Family Hotels in the New Forest or widen the net to include all the best places to stay in Hampshire.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.