Luxury Hotel in New Forest National Park
Montagu Arms Hotel, Luxury & Fine Dining in Exquisite Surroundings
Jun 19, 2009
The New Forest in south-east England may conjure up thoughts of trekking in dusty boots through scrub and heathland, catching glimpses of deer on misty mornings or sitting in a damp hide waiting for badgers to emerge.
It can be all these, but it can also be a place for strolling through medieval villages, visiting palaces, or spending a day lusting after the vintage and antique cars in the National Motor Museum. And there’s no better place to stay than The Montagu Arms
Facilities at The Montagu Arms Hotel, New Forest, S.E. England
This former coaching Inn is blessed with oak panelling, antique furniture and an old brick fireplace in which there is a blazing open fire when the weather turns chilly, lending it more the atmosphere of a country house than hotel – more like spending time with friends than being a paying guest.
Although the outside attractions are many, the hotel has such beautiful gardens and space in which to relax with a cool drink (or a hot toddy if it’s autumn or winter) that many are tempted just to remain on the premises reading a book. Even the bar has a small library!
The idyllic location and the attention to detail of this small, elegant hotel, makes the Montagu Arms perfect for weddings and they are licenced to hold civil marriage and civil partnership ceremonies.
Rooms at The Montagu Arms Hotel, New Forest, S.E. England
Each of the 22 bedrooms has its own unique character and individual design. Some have stunning views overlooking the magnificent Beaulieu Palace while some overlook the exquisite English garden. The rooms are spacious with soft and luxurious linen, most of the suites have four-poster beds, and room service is there for those who prefer sometimes to dine alone.
Restaurant at the Montagu Arms Hotel, New Forest, S.E. England
Dining at The Terrace Restaurant in The Montagu Arms hotel, is a truly memorable experience. The two AA Rosette Restaurant uses the best of locally sourced seasonal ingredients, free range and organic where possible, in a menu created by Michelin starred chef Matthew Tomkinson. The Menu is complimented by an extensive wine list including organic wines. Both restaurant and bar lead to a terrace where pre- and post-dinner drinks can be enjoyed overlooking the garden.
Food at the Montagu Arms Hotel, New Forest, S.E. England
As one would expect from chef Matthew Tomkinson, the food is exceptional.
Starters from a list of six include Boudin of Newlyn Red Mullet with Baby Leeks and Oyster Beignet, and Roast Crown of Hampshire Wood Pigeon with Beetroot and Apple Compote and Candied Walnuts. Main courses offer venison from the local Beaulieu Estate served with locally sourced vegetables and a Sauce Grand Veneur, Roast Leg of Cornish Lamb, Breast of Barbary Duck, Line Caught Sea Bass, Pavé of Wild Scottish Halibut, and a superb Vegetarian dish which includes Saffron Pasta and Cep Voulete alongside dishes of seasonal vegetables and garnishes.
If young children are in the party and something less formal is required, then the hotel has Monty’s Bar and Brasserie right next door which provides good home-cooked and tasty country fare of the sort to please adults, teens and tots. Dishes include Hampshire sausage and mash, and ploughman’s with local cheeses.
Afternoon Tea is something of a tradition at The Montagu Arms, whether it’s taken by the roaring fire in autumn or winter or in the sunny conservatory in spring and summer. With a delicious selection of sandwiches and cakes with scones freshly baked in the kitchen served with clotted cream and New Forest jam, one can say that the ritual of an English afternoon tea has never been bettered.
Beyond The Montagu Arms Hotel, New Forest
The Award-winning Thai SenSpa is part of Carey’s Manor, sister hotel to The Montagu Arms and just a few miles away in the village of Brockenhurst. The Health Club at SenSpa, the use of which is complimentary to guests of the Montagu Arms, includes an indoor pool, gym, steam room and sauna. Spa facilities are available at preferential rates
Beaulieu Palace, Beaulieu Abbey and the world famous National Motor Museum containing over 250 vintage and antique cars, Beaulieu Palace and Abbey, with their beautiful grounds and veteran bus and monorail to transport visitors around the site, is just a short walk away along the river.
The Montagu Arms Hotel is easily reached by car from London or the provinces, Heathrow, Gatwick or Southampton Airports, or by train to Lymington and then on by taxi for just a few miles.
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