Lime Wood Hotel, The New Forest

Best for: Foodies wanting five-star pampering for a special occasion.

Things to do: Chill out in the Herb House spa, with its outdoor heated garden bath and sun deck, indoor pool overlooking the garden, plus steam room and gym offering classes from Spin to Pilates. We loved the 30-minute Head, Neck and Facial massage (£65). If you can tear yourself away, there are beautiful walks in the surrounding woodland.

Accommodation: Our large, one-bed Forest Suite was fresh, bright and spacious. Choose from a range of options, including rooms in the Main House (from £330 per night), through to the most indulgent one or two-bed Forest Lodges (from £1050 per night).

 Food: In the main restaurant (Hartnett Holder & Co) chefs Angela Hartnett and Lime Wood’s own Luke Holder have created an imaginative, high-end Italian menu. We also loved the Raw & Cured spa café with fresh juices, smoothies and healthy, raw dishes, such as Nori Rolls and ‘Spicy Mexican Fiesta’ – tortillas with a twist made from sundried tomatoes. The extensive breakfast buffet was to die for.

 Highlights: Soaking up the sun in the outdoor spa bath.

 Improvements: None. Impeccable service.

 Cost: Forest Suites start from £560 per night (room only). Breakfast was £16.50 (continental buffet) and £25 (cooked breakfast and buffet).

 Value for money: Expect to splash out for this level of luxury.

 Contact: Lime Wood Hotel, Beaulieu Road, Lyndhurst, New Forest, Hampshire SO43 7FZ. www.limewood.co.uk