Four Seasons Hampshire offers comfort and elegance in a historic parkland setting
A discreet entrance off a country lane, and a winding drive through rolling parklands, lead to a first glimpse of a stately manor house emerging from the Hampshire countryside.
A world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our visit to the Four Seasons Hampshire began with a friendly smile. Bags were whisked away and the car was valet parked as we were directed through the impressive entrance hall, before being shown to our room.
Beautifully decorated and furnished in classic country house style, the room was exceptionally comfortable, the marble bathroom luxuriously appointed, and the separate walk-in dressing room capacious.
The historic parkland of Dogmersfield, now home to the Four Seasons Hampshire, is on record as far back as the Domesday Book of 1086. The Manor House itself was built in 1728 and now, following a catastrophic fire in the early 1980s, only the original façade remains.
Sympathetically rebuilt and extended, and now under the guardianship of The Four Seasons, a typically English manor house retreat has been created with all of the original Georgian charm. The most recent refurbishment in 2021 blends traditional country style with the contemporary comforts of a truly prime property.
The perfect location in the Hampshire hills for country pursuits, guests enjoy horse-riding, cycling and clay-pigeon shooting in the 500 acre grounds. After a day of exploration and activities, the outdoor vitality spa pool provides welcome relaxation in the fresh country air, with a swim through connection to the indoor infinity pool and poolside loungers.
For those still with energy to burn there is a luxury fitness studio and tennis courts, as well as formal 18th century walled gardens, and open meadows to stroll in. Whilst those seeking simply to unwind may enjoy the therapeutic range of treatments available in the spa.
The Four Seasons Hampshire is both family and pet friendly, with plenty of space for children to run, and dogs on leads to be walked in the expansive grounds. There are supervised activities for the younger family members, with children’s facilities including a child-friendly play pool. Towels are provided beside the front door to wipe the muddy feet of the four-legged family members, and a doggy bed is provided to sleep in.
Guests will never go hungry at the Four Seasons Hampshire, with a traditional English afternoon tea a particular favourite. Served in the Library, with views across the parklands, it is a taste of luxury to be enjoyed at least once during your stay, and a delightful treat for birthday or anniversary celebrations.
We enjoyed dinner and breakfast in the Wild Carrot restaurant where seasonal, natural and locally sourced ingredients are skilfully transformed into imaginative and tasty dishes by Executive Chef Talha Barkin and his team. The service was attentive, friendly and yet discreet. For those seeking additional privacy, or maybe exhausted after a day of country activities, in room dining provides the ultimate prime experience.
Should guests wish to entertain whilst staying at Four Seasons Hampshire, the hotel staff will cater for every requirement, ranging from small gatherings over cocktails and canapés, to weddings and celebratory occasions in the Four Seasons Ballroom.
A destination hotel in itself, with no need to set foot outside the parklands, the Four Seasons Hampshire is also ideally placed for a visit to nearby Chawton, the home of Jane Austen whose internationally acclaimed novels are renowned for social observations and witty insights into the lives of the English gentry in rural England in the early 19th century, truly bringing the genteel Georgian history of Dogmersfield to life.
For guests travelling from Surrey, the Four Seasons Hampshire provides comfort and elegance just a hop, skip and a jump from home. A special place to make lasting memories.
Find out more at: www.fourseasons.com/hampshire
