Our Dorset Life

AD – we were invited to review the new dining room.

Nestled between the enchanting New Forest and the Hampshire coast, Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa is a classic English country house hotel with a difference. It has all the timeless features you’d expect from a five-star countryside retreat: award-winning dining, a luxury spa, and world-class service, set in 180 acres of beautiful Hampshire grounds. But it’s the hotel’s ability to blend tradition with reinvention that makes it truly special.

Part of the Iconic Luxury Hotels collection, Chewton Glen is also the group’s original flagship property. This year marks the launch of its reimagined Dining Room, Bar and Drawing Rooms, and sets the tone for a new chapter as the hotel prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2026.

A Perfect Day Trip

Whether you’re local or visiting from further afield, Chewton Glen makes for an exceptional winter day trip. We started our visit with a relaxing few hours in the hotel’s famous spa, followed by what can only be described as one of the most memorable lunches we’ve had in a long time.

A Picture-Perfect Autumn Visit

We were lucky enough to visit in autumn, which made the experience even more magical. The grounds were alive with colour, with trees turning vibrant shades of amber, gold and crimson.

The hotel’s team had created spectacular floral displays throughout, alongside an incredible 2,200 pumpkins arranged across the grounds. It was a visual treat at every turn and made for a truly atmospheric backdrop. A walk through the kitchen garden was another highlight peaceful, beautifully maintained, and a lovely way to explore a different side of the estate.

A Spa Experience to Unwind and Reset

The Chewton Glen Spa consistently ranks among the best in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. The facilities are second to none, including a 17-metre indoor swimming pool, one of Europe’s largest hydrotherapy pools, plus a steam room, sauna, and jacuzzi. There’s also a wide treatment menu, offering everything from reiki and hot stone massage to oxygen facials and full-body therapies.

It’s a space that feels both luxurious and peaceful, and a perfect way to start a leisurely winter escape.

Estate Lunch Menu: A Celebration of British Produce

After the spa, we headed to the newly relaunched Dining Room to try the Estate Lunch Menu, a seasonal showcase of the finest British seafood, meat and produce, much of it sourced locally from the New Forest and surrounding coastline.

We tried for starters, the smoked haddock Kedgeree, warming, gently spiced and beautifully balanced, the twice-baked Emmenthal soufflé, which was light, rich, and indulgent, absolutely amazing when paired with the delicious bread!

For mains we tried the fish and chips, which golden, crisp but with the softest fish, served with chips, curry and tartar sauce. The steak diane, with chestnut mushrooms, dijon mustard, tarragone and chips. It was perfectly cooked and was possibly the best steak I have ever had!

For dessert, the treacle tart was a highlight. Sticky, sweet, and absolutely classic. We also tried some of their macarons and chocolates.

The service throughout was flawless. The sommelier was a standout, sharing insights on English sparkling wines and offering perfect pairings for each course. The staff were warm, welcoming and quietly attentive, everything you’d hope for from a five-star experience.

Inside, the Drawing Room was bustling with guests enjoying afternoon tea, which looked beautifully presented and indulgent. It’s clearly a popular choice, and one we’ll definitely be returning to try.

More Than a Hotel: A Legacy Destination

Chewton Glen is not just a hotel, it’s an award-winning resort with a rich heritage. With 72 individually designed rooms and suites, including 14 treehouse suites, the property also features a 9-hole golf course, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a croquet lawn, and a purpose-built cookery school in collaboration with chef James Martin.

This privately owned hotel has long been a favourite of families, couples, and luxury travellers, and with its recent updates, it’s clear Chewton Glen continues to lead the way in British hospitality.

As Andrew Stembridge, Executive Director of Iconic Luxury Hotels, puts it:
“We’re not just refreshing our F&B spaces; we’re reimagining the entire guest experience to ensure Chewton Glen remains a favourite for generations to come.”

Whether you’re popping in for a luxurious lunch and spa afternoon or booking in for a longer stay, Chewton Glen offers an experience that is both timeless and refreshingly modern. We can’t wait to return.

Love Sarah x

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