After an awful lot of searching for somewhere reasonably large and yet affordable in the New Forest area to hold a bit of a family gathering, we struck gold when we booked Highcroft Cottage. It fitted the bill just perfectly.
The accommodation comprises: on the ground floor, a large dining room, a living room (complete with a log burner and a generous basket of logs), a well-equipped kitchen, a single bedroom with an en suite accessible shower room, a small toilet; upstairs, there's a bathroom, a large double bedroom, a room with two single beds, and a room with a double and a single. Outside, there's an enclosed lawned area with a picnic table and chairs. There were seven of us for some of the time - five adults, two toddlers - and we had more than enough space.
It isn't desperately modern in decor and fixtures, but we found it to be really comfortable and homely. It's mostly clean and tidy: the en suite shower room has seen better days and is rather grotty, but that was very much the exception. Not having another shower was a bit of a pain when the house was full too. These are minor quibbles, however, especially given the price.
It's very light and airy, and there are lovely views from many of the windows of the gardens and nearby woods. Although there are other buildings nearby and adjoining, the atmosphere (toddlers permitting) is peaceful and restful, bird song mixing with the sounds of the farm.
The garden, while small, catches the sun and provides a perfect play area for the children, particularly as it has an outside tap. The plants might not need watering for a while! Older children might find it less satisfactory, but could easily be sent to find entertainment in the woods. Those woods are accessible through the back gate and are glorious on a sunny day; once you work it out, you can walk through them to the centre of the village without crossing any busy roads. And, of course, you can always pop next door to the Cider Pantry for a delicious lunch.
Overall, then, we were absolutely delighted with our find. It feels like a cosy, comfortable home-from-home, nestled into a really superb location.
All bookings are direct with the owner 