For our beautiful Summer Days shoot in the New Forest, we stayed at Rightmans Place, a stylish and family-friendly Huntsman’s Lodge. Think luxury self catering meets boutique hotel. Guests have free range of a beautifully restored country home, with over 20 private acres to explore, and wild New Forest ponies at the garden gate.
There’s a walled garden, rope swings and wildflower meadows along with a south-facing sun terrace that calls for an afternoon Pimms.
Big get-togethers are no problem as there’s room for a gathering around the large oak table in the country kitchen, complete with Aga.
On balmy evenings fling open the huge doors and dine alfresco or in the cooler months, cosy up in front of the comforting wood burner and view the deer graze. The dining room is something special – expect fireplace envy. Can’t find the TV? Let the kids reveal it at the click of a button behind a classic oil painting.
Six bedrooms and several bathrooms ensure everyone can bag a their own space. And you can bring the family dog too with their own quarters in the laundry and utility rooms.
Short breaks cost from £2065 (Sleeps 11+cots). Find out more at newforestliving.co.uk or call 01590 427887
See our Summer Days feature in the August issue of The Simple Things - out 29 July 2015 and you can buy direct from our shop - and more of our pics here.