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Travel review: Grade-II listed Burley Manor, in the New Forest, Hampshire

If you’re looking for a rural quintessentially British getaway, Burley Manor tucked within in the New Forest is the perfect pick.

Located in the sleepy yet historic village of Burley, the stunning mansion dating back to 1852 stands proudly within its picturesque grounds, surrounded by tranquility and endless countryside.

Take a step inside, and you’ll see where the £1.8 million has been spent, on lavish furniture and boutique-styled décor.

The historic entrance to Burley Manor's reception, drawing room and restaurant. Picture: Polymedia
The historic entrance to Burley Manor's reception, drawing room and restaurant. Picture: Polymedia

In December 2015 the whole place underwent an interior overhaul and re-launch, which included bringing the rooms and the dining areas into the 21st century, without ridding it of the traditional quirks it has always boasted.

The Grade II listed property is still steeped in dark wood with large ornate log-fires, but the colours and finishing touches have made it into a modern yet homely space.

And the elegance does not stop in the rooms. On entering, you are presented with Victorian-styled furniture, fresh colours, and a comfortable bed along with all the necessities.

The light and airy bedrooms are equipped with boutique styled furniture and excellent views of the countryside. Picture: Polymedia
The light and airy bedrooms are equipped with boutique styled furniture and excellent views of the countryside. Picture: Polymedia

You’ll find the basics – like a kettle, with tea and coffee – a hair dryer and options of still and sparking water.

But the added extras, such as the spa enthused creams and gels, make having a bath or shower something to look forward to.

It will be after exploring the 90,000 acres of forest, moors and coastline on this hotel’s doorstep, that the top quality power shower will come in handy to relax those muscles.

The spectacular view that can be seen across the New Forest. Picture: Polymedia
The spectacular view that can be seen across the New Forest. Picture: Polymedia

This grown-ups only hotel also invites dogs to accompany their owners in their especially dedicated rooms.

Whether you drive or cycle, the woodland and countryside seems to never end – making it an ideal place for long walks and site seeing, whether you intend to bring a dog or not.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner is also catered for with a Mediterranean inspired menu and traditional British hearty dishes to pick from.

The restaurant within the Grade-II listed manor. Picture: Polymedia
The restaurant within the Grade-II listed manor. Picture: Polymedia

Enjoy your first supper of the day in the light and airy conservatory.

Be sure to pick from wholesome options such as eggs-benedict or, if your dinner from the night before was too filling, there is a section dedicated to light eaters.

You’ll leave feeling refreshed and topped up with enough breakfast tea to last you all day.

An en-suite bathroom at Burley Manor. Picture: Polymedia
An en-suite bathroom at Burley Manor. Picture: Polymedia

And when it comes to dinner time, the dim lighting and warmth that surrounds you in the restaurant will enable you to sit back, relax and pick from an array of hearty options, with much of the produce locally obtained.

The informal service provided sits right with the character of the place – the waitresses are attentive and knowledgeable, yet friendly and chatty which is key when serving a whole host of guests.

Clued up on their surroundings, they can tell you where in Hampshire the locally brewed cider has come from and the taste you can expect on the first sip.

The lounge area with bar service. Picture: Polymedia
The lounge area with bar service. Picture: Polymedia

The New Forest is one of this country’s most beautiful, serene places and it absolutely lives up to what word of mouth has branded it.

The Burley Manor is a hidden gem – not to be missed.

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