Looking forward to spending time with the family? The Four Seasons Hampshire is the perfect choice 

If you’re looking to spend quality time with your loved ones, there are few hotels that offer a family-friendly experience with the elegance of The Four Seasons Hampshire. Set in 500 acres of historic parkland (Dogmersfield Park) – first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, and the site of Henry VIII’s first meeting with Catherine of Aragon – the restored Georgian manor house provides an ideal country retreat within an hour of London.

There are 133 rooms, including 22 suites, which come with elegant bathrooms, complete with roll-top baths and Asprey amenities. Children 17 years of age and younger occupying the same room as their parents stay at no extra cost and complimentary family amenities include cots, baby baths, rollaway beds and bottle sterilisers.

There are plenty of activities including country walks (The Basingstoke Canal runs through the grounds), cycling, tennis, croquet, falconry and birdwatching, while the Equestrian Centre offers pony rides and lessons for children. There’s a games room and adventure playground, while the family adventure pool (Sharkie’s Reef) has a three-metre slide, rotating umbrella fountain and bubble jets.

During the holidays, there are special programmes for kids and a junior boot camp, giving parents the chance to enjoy the hotel’s other amenities such as the spa – housed in the Manor House’s original 18th century stable block. Try the signature Hampshire Herbal Massage, which uses remedies used in Jane Austen’s time (the author had a home in the nearby village of Chawton, where she is said to have written Sense and Sensibility).

The spa’s star attraction is the indoor conservatory-style pool, where floor-to-ceiling glass creates a peaceful setting.

Outside, there’s a vitality pool that takes in the view of the converted stable block, which is the perfect spot for a mid-morning coffee. Guests can also enjoy a yoga session in the hotel’s picturesque walled garden.

On the food front, the menu at the main restaurant Wild Carrot focuses on seasonal, natural ingredients sourced from local markets and further afield.

The Bar at Wild Carrot serves classic craft cocktails and artisanal concoctions inspired by ingredients found in the Hampshire countryside. A selection of delicious snacks and bites are also available. The Library is a cosy space to relax and unwind with a cup of coffee after a long country walk or to enjoy afternoon tea which is served daily

Words by Selma Day

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