New Park Manor

5 stars because although it wasn’t perfect, you come here for a family-friendly, dog-friendly stay in the New Forest, and on that promise it truly delivered for us. We stayed for just two nights to celebrate our toddler turning two, our dog’s birthday, and give ourselves a well-deserved break at the same time, and overall it was a lovely, comfortable way to check all the boxes. What we didn’t love: often encountered long waits at reception and for food, where staff seemed a bit clueless and had to keep being reminded—things were often just forgotten, like butter not being served with my bread, drink orders, no spoons with certain items that really require them at breakfast, etc. (the hotel seemed far from a buttoned-up tight ship). The food wasn’t particularly memorable. The outdoor playground which had been a big draw was really only suitable for children 4+, not much for younger toddlers or babies to enjoy. A fair amount of poop on the grounds, which was probably mostly wildlife, hopefully not guests failing to pick up after their dogs… but not great when you (and kids) are just running around freely. I was surprised the only pool toy/accessory they had were some noodles—I had expected maybe more floaty or toy options for children, just given their other well-thought-through offerings and trying to make it easier on parents to not have to lug too much stuff from home the hotel. No gym/fitness room. This is just nitpicking a bit as what we loved did far outweigh the negative. What we loved: it really did feel very considered for parents, like with the included play sessions at the children’s den and the video monitors that could be requested so we got to enjoy drinks and dessert with our dog while our little one slept comfortably just up the stairs. The staff were always willing to go above and beyond, running to the kitchens or to ask the appropriate people if something was possible, and were generally very friendly and accommodating—they were super kind to our daughter and dog. Lots of great touches, like the milk and cookies, and bags of popcorn, set out in the evening. Easy for us to buy dog treats at reception or order him food off the dog menu (happy he ate some vegetables for once!). Loved the facilities—arcade/games room attached to the family dining room, open all the time for the restless kids to enjoy. Steam room, sauna, and sanarium with the indoor spa pool which we’ll definitely take better advantage of next time we’re here while our girl is in children’s den. My husband and I were both able to squeeze in a massage because although there didn’t seem like much online availability beforehand, they had a very handy list of available spa openings at reception. We don’t find we’re usually able to get a last-minute spa booking at hotels so that was a nice surprise. Another huge plus is that they put out cold bar foods early in the morning (fruit, yogurt, bread, etc) that can be accessed before/outside of the sit-down breakfast—a godsend with a toddler. Very comfortable sleep experience for us all—best our daughter has ever slept which if you’re a parent of a little one, you know that’s a big deal. And last but certainly not least, the New Forest is just gorgeous. Had the loveliest family walk without having to get in the car. My daughter had an amazing 2nd birthday. Her stay here will be hard to top in future birthdays! This was our first time staying at one of these “luxury family-friendly” group hotels, and we’ll definitely be back.