THE LOCATION

Rhinefield House Hotel Hampshire New Forest

A grand country manor in 40 acres of impressive grounds, Rhinefield House sits just past the magnificent Rhinefield Ornamental Drive up a treelined driveway in the heart of the New Forest National Park. Part of the Hand Picked Hotels Group, the great house was built in 1887 by the Walker-Munros. An ornate, castle-like building, the architecture combines Tudor and Gothic styling. This house was built to impress – and continues to do so today.

Rhinefield-House-hotel-rear-exterior-with-fountain

Rhinefield House has plenty of space, too: the hotel has 50 bedrooms, including three feature suites, along with two restaurants, indoor and outdoor pools, rolling grounds, a maze and ornamental pond. All of which make it a popular spot for idyllic weddings and a splendid Hampshire getaway.

THE VIBE

Oil painting Rhinefield House Hotel Brockenhurst New Forest Hampshire

Historic and imposing, it’s no wonder Rhinefield House has been used as a location in film and TV dramas – including The Crown.

Fountain and lily pads pond Rhinefield House New Forest Hampshire

Once you’ve checked in, drop your bags in your room, have a quick cuppa, then make time for a stroll around, taking in the imposing oil paintings, wood panelling, grand fireplaces, Italianate fountains, ornamental pond and manicured gardens.

Alahambra Room at Rhinefield House Hotel Brockenhurst New Forest Hampshire

Next to the Armada Restaurant, take a peek at impressive Alhambra Room. A real sight to behold, it shines with wall-to-wall jewels. A touch of Spain recreated in Hampshire, it’s an exact copy of the famous Palace in Granada commissioned by Mabel Walker-Munro as a fabulously opulent Christmas present for her husband.

Outdoor pool at Rhinefield House Hotel New Forest Hampshire

Open from May to September, the outdoor pool with its ice cream, towel and water kiosk is a real treat. On Muddy’s visit, the Sun Gods were smiling. After a quick dip, we caught the last of the afternoon rays and luxuriated on a lounger.

Tucked away (but worth seeking out), Rhinefield House has a small indoor pool and spa pool, sauna and steam room. Sadly we didn’t, but book ahead for mani-pedis and ultra-relaxing treatments like an Elemis hot stone massage. Bliss.

SCOFF & QUAFF

Armada dining room restaurant Rhinefield House New Forest — Pic: Rhinefield House

In the evening, the oh-so-elegant two AA Rosette Armada Dining room is the setting for a fine meal. Spanning the Loire, Lebanon, New York, Napa and New Zealand, the wine list is huge with plenty of choice, even by the glass.

Armada frieze Rhinefield House Hotel New Forest Hampshire Brockenhurst Armada restaurant

Sitting back with a glass of delicious English Sparkling we take in the intricate Armada frieze above the original fireplace. A real labour of love, it was carved over a period of nine years from a single block of oak four feet thick.

If you like a long, lingering supper, the seven-course Chef’s Menu has all the makings of a foodie feast, especially with wine pairings. It was tempting – but we decide to stick to the seasonal a la carte and had plenty to choose from, including veggie and vegan options.

Rhinefield-House-scallops-starter Armada Restaurant fine dining New Forest Hampshire

South Coast seared scallops topped with crisp parmesan and meltingly-soft burrata served with colourful Isle of Wight tomatoes and consommé poured at the table get things off to a very good start.

Hampshire Lamb Rack dish Rhinefield House New Forest

Mains were delicious and filling. Mr. Muddy had a showstopping Hampshire lamb rack. Meanwhile, I plumped for a flavoursome dish of butter-roast monkfish with saffron-infused mash and mussels, both of which ended in some very clean plates.

New York Cheesecake Rhinefield House New Forest

If only I’d had the room, I would’ve been tempted by the British cheeseboard which includes some excellent local favourites. Instead, we compromised with a prettily-presented slice of New York cheesecake and a couple of spoons.

PILLOW TALK

Bedroom at Rhinefield House Hotel Hampshire

In the main house, Master Suites with roll top baths and separate lounge area have real wow factor – but expect to pay a premium. Most rooms at Rhinefield House are the more contemporary-style executive or classic bedrooms in the modern West Wing. In the Executive rooms, large windows let in plenty of light with leafy Forest views and there’s a few extra mod-cons the walk-in shower and TV over the bath.

Breakfast in the morning is a leisurely affair, starting with a digestive-boosting fresh juice shot. Fresh croissants, smoked salmon with poached eggs and watercress, and another toasted sourdough laden with smashed avocado and eggs set us up well for the rest of the weekend.

DISABILITY ACCESS

Rhinefield House has a drop-off zone and disabled parking spaces. The hotel has one dedicated accessible room with wet room, emergency cords and remote control curtains. Lifts are available in some of the otherwise stair-based areas of the hotel. Take a look at the accessibility page and call ahead for more info.

CHILDREN

Milk and cookies at Rhinefield House Hand Picked Hotels

Hand Picked hotels are always very welcoming when it comes to younger guests. Executive rooms come with a fold-out sofa bed (free for under-11s, £20-£25 for older children) and there’s complimentary breakfast and milk and cookies at bedtime.

Child in the maze at Rhinefield House Hampshire

Children’s menus have lots of choice and plentiful portions. Weather permitting, take them for a run around the grounds and a wander through the Hornbeam maze. If not, borrow some board games to help keep them entertained.

PET FRIENDLY?

Absolutely. Rhinefield House has dog-friendly lounges, bars and terraces, though they’re not allowed in the restaurants. Up to two dogs can stay in designated dog-friendly rooms at a cost of £20 per dog per day, and £10 per second dog per day.

OUT & ABOUT

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive New Forest Pic: Annie-spratt.unsplash — Pic: Annie Spratt/Unsplash.

Right on the doorstep, the Ornamental Drive’s majestic redwoods and firs are some of the tallest in England, planted in the late 1850s for Rhinefield House. Follow the 1.5 mile Tall Trees Trail and prepare to gape upwards in wonderment as the sun glints through the branches. If you’ve a bit more time hire some bikes and freewheel it through the New Forest (stopping off for a cream tea, naturally).

Attractions-wise, the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu and Furzey Gardens are both around 15 minutes’ drive away. Paulton’s Park (home of Peppa Pig World), the beautiful Exbury Gardens and the indie shops and quayside at pretty Lymington are all around 20 minutes’ drive.

THE MUDDY VERDICT

Good for: The stunning country house, New Forest setting and fine food at Rhinefield House are all very conducive to a romantic break or special occasion. Families are also well catered for and there’s bags of space to roam around in.

Not for: The full four-poster experience. Other than a couple of suites in the main house, rooms here are comfortable but have a modern hotel feel. Spa goers will love the treatment offer but might find the indoor pool a touch bijou.

The damage: More affordable than you might think, especially if you snag a dining credit as part of a special break. Classic rooms start at around £265 per night including breakfast. In the restaurant, starters cost from £12-£20, mains are £20-£36 and puds £12-£14. Wines are £10-£30 per glass, bottles start at £30 to £100+.

Rhinefield House Hotel, Rhinefield Rd, Brockenhurst SO42 7QB. Tel. 01642 706606.

Review: Rhinefield House, Brockenhurst

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