For all our indulgence in pure luxury, you must visit Four Seasons Hampshire, which stands proudly on Hampshire’s most beautiful 500 acres of parkland. I experienced country manor living at its finest!
The hotel was pure comfort and provided flawless service. It is a must-visit for a pre-wedding de-stress, a weekend with the girls, or any excuse to get away before the big day.
On arrival, a flat-capped doorman gave us a friendly, warm welcome as he opened the door, followed by Oliver Beckington, their adorable black Labrador representing the hotel’s commitment to a dog-friendly destination.
As soon as I checked in, I felt a refreshingly warm atmosphere that oozed sophistication, and I could not wait to see my bedroom. The walk from the lobby to the bedroom was excellent, as daylight filled the glass walkway, and I could see such beautiful views of manicured lawns and lots of lavender.
My room for the night was a stunning suite in the West Wing. The Belvedere Suite has a separate bedroom and living area and offers prime views of the Estate’s grounds. The room’s decor is variously coloured, and the spacious suite’s furnishings and prints reflect the Hotel’s country setting.
Amid heritage-listed gardens, I had a treatment in one of Europe’s finest spas. The Spa has been beautifully restored in the 18th-century stable block, and I had the most enriching body massage. Their bespoke approach ensures each treatment is tailored to your needs, so before my treatment, I was asked what I wanted to achieve from my massage and even what my preferences were for the colour of the treatment room. I soon forgot what the time was, all my stresses seemed to disperse, and the smell of the ESPA essential oils was heavenly.
After my treatment, I was escorted to the relaxing room, where I lay on the most comfortable chair, listened to music, slowly sipped my herbal tea, and ate fresh dates.
If you are more into recreational activities, you will be spoilt for choice with all they have to offer: Horse Riding, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Tennis, Falconry, Canal Boating, Fishing, Running, Cycling, walking tracks, Croquet, and golf.
With its French European menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, Seasons is one of the area’s most desirable restaurants. I had the pleasure of sampling their delicious dinners, and I chose the Hampshire menu:
Heirloom tomatoes Carpaccio, Laverstoke Park Bocconcini, apple balsamic reduction, Secretts baby basil
Steamed Lymington Skate Wing, sticky Nori rice, grilled courgette, miso consommé and coriander foam
Laverstoke Park beef sirloin, foie gras mousse stuffed potatoes fondant, English Pea Purée, onion marmalade, mushroom jus.
New Forest Nanny fondue, hotel grounds rosemary brioche, lavender pistachio dippers Grand Marnier and Laverstoke Park ricotta soufflé, caramelised plums, vanilla ice cream
After my meal, I visited Bar 1086, a sleek setting for a premium spirit.
I have stayed in many beautiful hotels around the world, from prestigious resorts in Mexico to trendy celebrity hangouts in LA. However, the Four Seasons Hampshire is just under two hours from London and still offers the same prestigious feeling and surroundings.
Visit Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire to book your stay.
