Downton Lodge, Hampshire

Resting on the edges of the New Forest National Park, on the outskirts of Hordle in Lymington, Hampshire, is this superb characterful Grade II listed cottage, Downton Lodge. Set over two floors and sleeping up to six guests, Downton Lodge is a fantastic setting filled with character for a family getaway to Hampshire, enjoying easy access to the beaches of Milford on Sea, Highcliff and the beautiful town of Lymington. Arrive at the property and take advantage of the ample parking, available on the private driveway or in the garage, before stepping into the entrance hall to discard any coats and shoes after your journey. Look forward to whipping up delicious home-cooked meals for your guests in the spacious kitchen/diner, which features a gas AGA and handy dishwasher, as your guests set the table and uncork a bottle of wine ready to tuck-in to the fruits of your labour. After a hearty meal, retreat on the wooden floorboards to the light and airy sitting room, where you can kick-back and relax on the sofa in front of your favourite film on the TV. Completing the ground-floor is a homely cloakroom, perfect for a quick freshen up before setting out for the day. When sleep calls, climb the stairs to the first floor where you can retire to one of three well-presented bedrooms, a double with en-suite bathroom, another double and a twin, all ideal for catching your rest. Wake-up and indulge in a hot soak in the bath, before joining your guests in one of two outdoor seating areas to savour an alfresco breakfast followed by a dip in the owner’s outdoor swimming pool nearby. Venture out into the local village, where you will find a small selection of amenities, including a well-stocked convenience store where you can pick up any essentials, a welcoming pub which serves tasty meals and local ales, ideal for those evenings where you don’t feel like cooking, and the picturesque Hordle Lakes, perfect for enjoying a walk or for fishing. Nearby, is the town of New Milton, where you will find the Forest Arts Centre which offers live performances and workshops and the interesting Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum, where you can view the former champions extensive selection of bikes, followed by a coffee in the café or a browse in the craft shops. Just a little further is the charming market town of Lymington, home to the Lymington Sea Water Swimming Baths, art galleries, the St Barbe Museum, and the scenic Buckland Rings. If you can tear yourself away, be sure to visit the town of Christchurch, well-known for its impressive Christchurch Castle ruins and the accompanying 12th century Norman House which rests alongside. Making for a memorable day out, head to the Red House Museum and Gardens which is set in an 18th-century workshops where you can peruse art exhibits, attend events and tour the gardens or make a splash with the kids at the Quomps Splashpark which has plenty of activities the family can enjoy. Short 2 and a half mile walk to the beach, Milford on sea. For an unforgettable stay in Hampshire, choose Downton Lodge.