Burley Manor in the New Forest is set among eight acres of land where you can sit and enjoy wonderful green views and deer grazing just metres away.
It was here that we recently spent 2 days for a short break enjoying the Autumnal sunshine.
Burley Manor was built in 1852 by Colonel William Drake Estaile in a baronial style and sitting within an 800 year old estate surrounded by rolling countryside and nearby deep green forests.
Over the years the building has been added to and altered. It became a hotel in 1933, and was requisitioned for military use by the War Office during the Second World War.
Upon arrival, stepping through the stone archway entrance, and large fireplace on the right, we were greeted at reception and allocated room 21 situated on the second floor, accessed by stairs only.
Our Classic double room was smaller and more modest than others but had a wonderful comfortable Hypnos bed. Furniture seemed a little dated but chairs were comfortable and desk space was available. Bathroom was fairly small but fitted with a good shower. Gowns were provided, but alas there was really no room to hang towels in the bathroom.
Tea and coffee making facilities were available along with biscuits as well as a bottle of still and sparkling water. Other facilities included TV/Radio, Wi-Fi, Telephone, hair dryer and iron/ironing board. There was 24 hour room service provided.
Rooms are split between the main house and a garden wing (modern conversion of the old attached stable block). Anyone with mobility/disability problems would need to have access to a garden wing room of which there are two available..
We had an evening meal in the restaurant where ingredients for the food are sourced from as close a radius as possible to champion local produce. Executive chef, James Forman brings together the simple but delicious flavours of the Mediterranean in his menus, made for sharing.
I enjoyed a tasty Tuscan Soup as a starter, followed by some Monkfish. The food was very good but the plates could have been hotter when served.
Breakfast is served in the glass conservatory adjoined to the dining room which is wonderful, especially when bathed in sunlight and looking out across the garden. A buffet station has pastries, cheeses, meats, fruit, cereals, juices and a toasting area with a selection of home-made breads and preserves.
A full English Breakfast is available and À la carte dishes include eggs any way and brioche French toast. I chose scrambled eggs with salmon which was superb. Tea or coffee can be ordered.
On the first morning we enjoyed delicious croissants, but sadly, the second morning, they appeared raw inside, which we pointed out to the serving staff.
Staff were very helpful and pleasant.
A place we would return to but preferably on the first floor to avoid too many stairs!
