F

ancy a piece of rock-star cool in the heart of the New Forest?

Then book yourself into the boutique LIme Wood quick-snap. This attractive country house is set in secluded grounds, dotted with handcrafted driftwood benches and swings for two.

The 14 bedrooms and 15 suites are larger than an average new-build flat, obscenely indulgent and offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The interior mixes modern London chic with country house comfort – think contemporary art above roaring fires, roll-top baths and four-poster beds with iPod docking stations and Bose sound systems.

And aside from all this, you’ll find detailed descriptions of local walks – accompanied by maps on postcards – and Hunter wellies in all colours and sizes. Breakfast features local, organic products served in the traditional Scullery, and dinner is served in the chic Dining Room or at the informal Kitchen Table – vast, solid wood and set in among the toiling chefs.

What we like best, though, is the new Herb House spa, which has a relaxing roof-top herb garden, a hot pool and sauna overlooking the forest and ‘raw bar’, serving healthy food (with Champagne).