“We had a fabulous time staying in West Lodge.”
Access on arrival was easy, arranged before we got there with the owner. Laura, the owner let us settle in and then came by later to meet us both and tell us if we needed anything to contact her, which was comforting. The property itself was spotlessly clean and welcoming. There was nothing in the lodge that we could think of that was missing for our stay. We had fresh scones with jam and fresh cream, waiting for us, a vase of fresh flowers on the table was a lovely touch too. There was tea, coffee, herbal tea, cappuccinos, fresh orange, milk and a bottle of prosecco waiting for us :) It was much appreciated. We found the bed very very comfortable with quality bedding. There is a handbook with all the information to help with things in the Lodge and plenty of information with places to go and walks from the door too. There are useful maps and torches for navigating lanes and paths if you are out walking into the evening for your safety. We enjoyed sitting in the garden and listening to the birds with a glass of wine or two :D it's very private. You can order a breakfast hamper as an extra from Laura, the owner, how to order is in the handbook. We ordered one and it was delicious, all fresh local produce from Hockley's farm shop, topped off with a fresh loaf, made by Laura. It was enough for two days of breakfast, and it was delicious. The area is pretty, Rockbourne with it's thatched cottages and little bridges over the stream leading into the owners gardens. While walking we stopped and chatted with a lady netting some trout out of the remaining water and place them back in a safe place, she told us the stream is spring fed and dries up so she tries to rescue what she can. The Rose and Thistle pub was closed during our stay sadly, it literally is a stones throw away from the lodge too. Fordingbridge is good for a walk around and children like to paddle in the river, pretty little place with a large co-op which we used. We visited the Roman Villa which is well worth a visit if you are interested in history. We went to the New Forest, Godshill to start with after the lodge's gardener had a chat with us during our stay while he was mowing grass and told us it was beautiful up there, so thank you to him. The New Forest is vast and is absolutely gorgeous, stopping at the various car park areas and having a wander. We had never been to the New Forest before and had no idea there was going to be donkeys, horses and cows wandering around freely, we absolutely loved it, such a fantastic place to unwind. Oh, and grab an ice-cream while you are there! We travelled to Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove which is around an hour from the lodge, well worth going to visit if you have never been before, we had been before though. Parking was £10 half day or £20 for a full day. We had fish and chips from Finley's while we were there, they were delicious. All in all we had a great 4 day break and we will return one day, everything was perfect from the lodge to the surrounding area. Thank you! Alison and Mark.
Thank you for your wonderful, detailed feedback. We are delighted that you enjoyed your stay and packed so much exploration into your time. There are plenty of ideas for future guests to try! We look forward to welcoming you back again in the future.
Best wishes Manor Cottages
Property Owner
