BETWEEN THE SHEETS

Montagu Arms Hotel, Beaulieu, New Forest

WHERE AND WHY: This luxury country house hotel is ideal for those who want to go for a walk in the woods, stroll across rolling fields or simply enjoy the bracing sea air of South Coast towns such as Lymington.

It's easy to get to from London - down the M3 - and near to Southampton's train and plane terminals. It boasts three red stars and is one of the AA's top 200 hotels with 22 beautifully-designed bedrooms, some with four-poster beds. Guests get free use of the gym, steam room, sauna and swimming pool in a nearby sister hotel's spa. You can relax in the wood-panelled lounge.

ON THE MENU: The Terrace Restaurant, which overlooks the gardens, was voted Hampshire Restaurant of the Year in 2007 and the menu features fresh local meat and game.

Starters include chicken ballontine, mains like New Forest fillet of beef and desserts like pear and rice pudding. Three courses cost pounds 42, but it's Included when booking dinner, bed and breakfast. There's less formal grub in Monty's Brasserie, attached to the hotel. Star ters include local steamed mussels for pounds 6, with wonderful classic battered haddock for pounds 9.95. Sunday lunch is pounds 12.95.

WHILE YOU'RE THERE: The Beaulieu Estate, incorporating the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey, is 10 minutes walk away. Kids of all ages will love the James Bond Experience and Formula One racing cars. Stroll around the New Forest and enjoy the wildlife, including deer. Visit the wonder of Exbury Gardens and waterfront towns such as Hythe, just four miles away with its historic pier and fabulous yachts. Catch a ferry to Southampton.

WAKE-UP CALL: Bed and breakfast rates start from pounds 89 per person per night based on two sharing and from pounds 129 a night for dinner, bed and breakfast. There is currently 25 per cent off B&B bookings from Sunday to Thursday until May 27. This includes two complimentary tickets to Exbury or one day cycle hire. Go to www.montaguarmshotel.co.uk/01590 612324.

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