With more travellers choosing to holiday closer to home, the British staycation has taken on a new level of appeal. Nowhere is this more evident than along the south coast, where the charming town of Lymington meets the wild beauty of the New Forest.
At Stanwell House, our unique setting offers the best of both worlds: an alluring Georgian high street, a bustling harbour, and miles of ancient woodland and open heathland right on our doorstep, providing a relaxed base for an extended escape.
Staying with us for four or five days allows our guests to fully immerse themselves in the local area, balancing laidback exploration with time to unwind. From cycling through forest trails and sailing across the Solent to long lunches and slow mornings, our itinerary is designed to help you experience Lymington and the New Forest at their most rewarding.
Where to Stay
At Stanwell House, we offer a collection of thoughtfully designed rooms and suites that reflect the character of the surrounding area while delivering a high level of comfort and style. Each space has been curated with a soft, contemporary aesthetic, making it easy to settle in and feel at home from the moment you arrive.
For couples seeking something indulgent, our Suites offer additional space and design details, while our Luxury Rooms offer a refined yet cosy retreat. For a historic stay, our House Rooms are located in the Georgian part of the hotel, featuring historic touches, such as original windows and a cosy fireplace, while solo travellers can enjoy our cosy Loft Rooms, offering stunning rooftop views of the surrounding area.
For those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, our Terrace Rooms are located on the ground floor, are dog friendly, and feature interconnecting options available for families or groups travelling together, while our Garden Rooms bring a sense of calm with a closer connection to outdoor spaces.
Explore Our Full Range of Accommodation Options
A Week Itinerary at Stanwell House
Day 1: Settling into Lymington
After checking into Stanwell House, your first afternoon with us is best spent easing into your new surroundings. Our hotel’s central location in Lymington places you just moments from the town’s high street, where independent boutiques, delicatessens, and galleries all invite a leisurely exploration.
Take your time wandering, stop in for a freshly brewed coffee or browse the local shops before making your way down towards the harbour. The sight of yachts gently bobbing on the clear water, combined with the salty air drifting in from the Solent, will set the tone for the days ahead.
As the evening approaches, return to our hotel to freshen up before dinner. Dining is a central part of the experience at Stanwell House, with each individual space offering a distinct atmosphere while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and seasonality.
Savour a delicious meal at our restaurant, Samphire, which features a seasonal introduction into our hotel’s culinary offerings. From locally sourced ingredients to wonderful dishes that even the fussiest eaters will enjoy, it is the perfect way to mark the beginning of your stay. Our menus evolve with the seasons, ensuring that each visit feels fresh and reflective of our surrounding area, reinforcing the connection between our hotel and our scenic location.
Day 2: Cycling Through the New Forest
During your first full day, discover the New Forest in one of the most traditional ways possible: by bicycle! After a relaxed breakfast with us, where you can tuck in to a delicious continental breakfast or a filling cooked breakfast, set out from Lymington and follow quiet lanes and designated trails that lead directly into the forest’s open landscapes.
Move at a leisurely pace and take in the details that make the New Forest so special. Ancient oak trees line the paths, while ponies and cattle roam freely across the heathland, seemingly undisturbed by passing visitors. This sense of space and tranquillity is immediate and deeply restorative for all who visit.
Our local cycle hire partnerships, such as with New Forest Bikes, make it easy to arrange everything you need, whether you are an experienced cyclist or simply looking for a smooth, gentle ride. Routes can also be tailored to suit your preferences, from shorter loops that return to Lymington in time for lunch to longer explorations that take you deeper into the forest and beyond.
After a morning outdoors, return to Stanwell House and relax in your room or enjoy a quiet moment in one of our communal spaces with a good book. As evening draws in, venture to Salt Bar, which offers a more informal dining experience, where expertly mixed cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere create the perfect setting to unwind with your partner or group of friends. Try a fruity plum Negroni, a refreshing elderflower spritz, or, for something more special, opt for a curated collection of cocktails inspired by your zodiac sign!
Day 3: Coastal Adventures & Time on the Water
Lymington’s identity is closely tied to the sea, and no stay would be complete without spending time on the water as the sun shines. Embrace the coastal side of our destination with a peaceful morning in the harbour.
Being on the water offers a completely different perspective of the area, highlighting the relationship between the town, the coastline, and the wider landscape. It is a refreshing contrast to the forest explored the previous day.
Discover our range of trusted local boat partners, including Solent Rib Charter and Lymington Yacht Charter, offering guests a variety of exceptional on-water experiences. While sailing trips can offer a hands-on way to explore the Solent, leisurely boat tours also provide the opportunity to fully sit back and take in the scenery. On clear days, views can even stretch across to the Isle of Wight, ensuring a sensational experience.
Returning to Stanwell House in the afternoon, unwind in our light-filled Orangery and enjoy a late lunch or afternoon tea, where you can choose several light dishes or a selection of savoury and sweet treats.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Whether that means retreating to your room, enjoying a drink in our stunning garden, or taking a gentle evening stroll down enchanting, cobbled streets and relaxing.
Day 4: Walking the Forest and Coast
After exploring by bike and by boat, the following day offers the chance to experience the magnificent landscape on foot. Walking with your loved ones allows for a deeper connection with them and with your local surroundings, encouraging you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of both forest and coast.
There are countless routes to choose from. From coastal paths that showcase exquisite views across the Solent, to inland trails that gently wind through woodland and open heath, at Stanwell House, we are more than happy to help you choose a walk that most appeals to you. Each route offers its own perspective, from quiet, shaded paths to wide, expansive spaces where the horizon stretches across the land.
While walking, you are also likely to stumble upon something new – a hidden pub, a quiet clearing, or a scenic gem that can become a memorable highlight of your day, adding to the sense of exploration that wholeheartedly defines the New Forest experience.
Returning to Stanwell House, there is time to rest before your final evening. Choose to dine once again at Samphire Restaurant or opt for a restaurant or pub you have seen during your travels. Wherever you choose, the last night of your stay is an opportunity to reflect on the variety of experiences discovered.
Day 5: A Gentle Farewell
For those extending their stay with us, the final morning is best approached without a fixed plan. A slow, leisurely breakfast sets the tone, allowing you to appreciate the last moments of your stay with us. If you opt for a short walk through Lymington, you can pick up local produce or small souvenirs before departure, or your favourite coffee. Upon leaving Lymington, the sense of calm and balance gained over the previous day remains, making the transition back to everyday life a little easier.
One of the defining qualities of Stanwell House is our flexibility. Whether you are travelling as a couple, with family, or even with your four-legged best friend, our historic hotel adapts to your needs. The proximity of forest, coast, and town ensures that each day can offer something different, while the comfort of our hotel provides a constant sense of ease.
Whether you find yourself cycling beneath ancient trees, sailing across open water, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a drink in hand, your experience will be shaped by a sense of place that feels both grounding and restorative.
Get in touch and plan your stay today.
