This is what makes Herb House at Lime Wood the ultimate New Forest retreat
Nestled within the enchanting landscape of the New Forest, Lime Wood hotel stands as a testament to tranquillity. A charming haven, blending natural beauty and sophisticated comfort, the destination is renowned for delivering a rejuvenating retreat with the Herb House – Lime Wood’s famed spa – taking the experience to new heights.
The setting
Lime Wood – once a mediaeval hunting lodge back in the 13th century – is gracefully set amidst the lush, verdant expanse of Hampshire’s New Forest. The idyllic location provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of life, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the calming embrace of nature. The hotel's architecture beautifully complements its surroundings, featuring a harmonious mix of traditional charm and luxurious modern elegance. The expansive grounds (all primly landscaped) come with picturesque cottages and cabins, each offering peace and privacy, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to retreat to nature without compromising on style.
The spa and treatments
Herb House at Lime Wood is more than just a spa: it is a sanctuary of wellness. Inspired by the remedial powers of the natural world, the spa offers a range of facilities and treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit.
A recent collaboration with the Ayurvedic therapist and Reiki healer Sheena Chandran has brought the ancient healing principles of Ayurveda to Herb House in a truly authentic way. One of the standout offerings is the Abhyanga treatment, an ancient practice involving the application of warm oil over the entire body with long, energy-mapped strokes. This technique aims to boost circulation, increase energy levels, and deliver deep relaxation, leaving guests feeling rebalanced and reconnected. Another deeply therapeutic option is the Marma treatment, which focuses on specific energy centres of the body. The massage stimulates the circulatory, immune, and nervous systems, making for a truly revitalising moment.
The Shirodhara treatment is a signature in Ayurvedic culture, where medicated warm oil is gently dripped onto the 'third eye' area of the forehead. When combined with a body, scalp, or head massage, it helps improve sleep, reduce stress, and has a profoundly calming effect on the mind and body. Meanwhile, the Kativasti therapy involves applying warm oil and a herbal paste dough to target the lumbosacral region. Also designed to strengthen the spinal cord, reduce arthritic pain, and enhance blood circulation, it’s ideal for those suffering with back issues.
In addition to these therapies, the spa offers Reiki – an ancient healing technique where a practitioner uses their hands to deliver energy to the body, improving energy flow and balancing the chakras – plus Indian Head Massage, another therapeutic practice, which involves the application of warm oil to the scalp combined with invigorating massage of the head and shoulders.
Beyond such specialised services, visitors can expect a wide range of effective treatments for the face and body in bespoke partnerships with luxe beauty brands Bamford, Voya, Ground Wellbeing and Sarah Chapman. And, treatments aside, the spa facilities spanning indoors and out are breathtaking.
Utterly picturesque, a 16-metre lap pool opens onto gardens where a smaller outdoor pool lies framed by loungers. Inside, beyond the Forest Sauna and Steam House rooms, is a hydrotherapy pool overlooking the forest, while the state-of-the-art gym backs onto the rooftop Herb Garden, with outside workouts and classes held both there and at The Hideout – a separate space within the hotel grounds facing meadows and woodland. From personal training to group classes dedicated to physical and mental self-improvement, fitness is a 360-affair at Herb House, making it far superior to your typical hotel spa.
Another testament to this is Herb House’s café, Raw & Cured. With locality and seasonality a running theme throughout Lime Wood (more on which below), lunch here sees you exceeding your five-a-day in the most imaginative ways. Serving sensational organic food, including fresh dishes, juices and smoothies, the menu celebrates wholefood ingredients to reflect the natural ethos of Herb House and Lime Wood at large.
The stay
Accommodation at Lime Wood is designed with the utmost in class and comfort. The main house features elegantly appointed rooms that blend classic style with modern amenities, while for those seeking a more secluded experience, the hotel's cottages and cabins provide the perfect setting. Each unit is thoughtfully designed, offering cozy interiors, captivating views, and peaceful outdoor spaces to relax and unwind in tranquillity.
In addition to its chic dwellings, Lime Wood boasts a culinary experience that is second to none. The on-site restaurant, Hartnett Holder & Co, is a highlight of any visit. Here, the acclaimed chef Angela Hartnett and Lime Wood’s own Luke Holder craft locally sourced dishes that pay homage to the seasons, with each meal a celebration of high-quality ingredients, thoughtfully prepared to create dining that is as memorable as it is delicious.
While the restaurant’s vibe is one of laid-back luxury, for those who enjoy even more relaxed dining, the Courtyard Bar offers the charming option of afternoon tea. This vibrant space is the ideal setting for sipping a perfectly brewed cup of tea (or something stronger) while indulging in a selection of delicacies. The bar’s inviting atmosphere and attentive service make it a wonderful spot to unwind and savour a quintessentially British tradition – or simply a perfectly executed drink at any time.
The special touches
Lime Wood is renowned for its attention to detail and personalised service. From the moment guests arrive, they are treated to a warm welcome and a range of bespoke amenities. The Herb House enhances this experience with its holistic approach to wellness, helping visitors incorporate small but significant lifestyle tweaks into their daily routines during and post-visit. The collaboration with Sheena Chandran lends an extra layer of expertise and authenticity to the spa's offerings, resulting in treatments that are not only relaxing but also deeply restorative.
The combination of this plus plush accommodation, top-class dining, and serene surroundings ensures that every aspect of a stay at Lime Wood is designed to provide unparalleled enjoyment. Whether you are relaxing in your elegant room, reclining in the sauna, savouring a meal at Hartnett Holder & Co, or enjoying tea in the Courtyard Bar, Lime Wood offers an experience that is both rejuvenating and indulgent.
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