I was lucky enough to visit Lime Wood several years back for a friend’s wedding, when it was freshly painted and very newly reopened. Despite the falling snow and the seemingly uninviting weather that beset the New Forest that day, Lime Wood sparkled magically under the starlight. We danced the night away and fell into bed, bellies full of decadent food and far, far too much wine. (That was before I had a baby and gave no thought to hangovers, of course).

Yesterday, the New Forest wasn’t looking much better. The horrendous gale force winds and rains that are smattering the south west coast of England howled with intensity and rage. The roads were partly flooded and hoards of helpless roadside ponies huddled together to keep warm. Yet, despite being issued an amber weather alert, I got in the car and drove to Lime Wood, knowing full well I’d be very happy I had made the effort once I got there.

What struck me when I first stepped into Lime Wood (on both occasions) is the incredible attention to detail. The design and aesthetic is faultless. Every cushion is tossed with perfection; every napkin folded, just so. But it isn’t in any way formal or intimidating and it is surprisingly family-friendly. The newly-opened Forest cabins welcome guests as they start their journey up the driveway, so they are close enough to the hotel’s main building for the odd bit of room service, but far away away enough to guarantee some serious privacy. The children’s bunk beds have edges and steps that are carved out of tree branches and trunks, there are ample DVDs and board games if the weather fails you, roaring fireplaces accentuate every room and fresh eggs and milk are delivered daily to the door. (These are collected from the neighbouring farm, which families are more than welcome to visit).

Angela Hartnett heads the kitchen of Lime Wood so you know you’re in for a serious gastronomic treat, though the Italian flair to her fare makes it extremely appealing to younger eaters. And the spa? Well…… even if you don’t stay at Lime Wood but you are anywhere in the county of Hampshire, do stop in. Between the bubbling outdoor hot tub, the elegant indoor pool (which has kiddie-friendly times for swimming), and the gorgeous Raw & Cured eatery (which serves cured meat and fish from the hotel’s own smoke house), the Herb House Spa is a joy from start to finish. Incidentally, it is aptly named as the roof is one large herb garden (visible from the gym) with everything grown there finding its way into the kitchen. I spent an hour in the capable (and very strong) hands of a therapist called Emily who gave me a deep tissue massage. Laying on the heated bed, I gave myself over to the moment, the scent of delicious Bamford body oil filling the air. If you do visit with your children you can still experience the spa. The hotel happily arranges babysitters so you need not miss out.

And if you do head out in the surrounding grounds together there are maps (so you won’t get lost) and bikes for your use (including a chariot-style bike for two and baby seats for tiny tots). The natural environment of Lime Wood, set as it is in the heart of the untouched and very pristine New Forest, gives it an ethereal quality, whether it’s pouring with rain or drenched in sunshine. And for that hour with Emily in one of the gorgeous treatment rooms of the Herb House spa, I honestly would have driven through a hurricane.

Book this hotel here.

View other UK family-friendly hotels at kodomo.com here.