Is This The UK’s Most Luxurious Treehouse Stay?

Nestled in the New Forest, Chewton Glen is home to wildlife aplenty, best enjoyed from its uber luxurious treehouse suites. Olivia Emily takes a catnap.

Review: Chewton Glen’s Treehouse Suites

When your sleeping mind is acclimatised to zoning out London’s ceaseless din, waking to a gentle leafy rustle is a welcome change. Hidden down an unassuming tree-lined lane beside one of Britain’s best-loved country house hotels, all 14 of Chewton Glen’s Treehouse Suites overlook a wooded valley, providing an instant connection to nature. In the evening, pure silence lulls you to sleep; come morning, birds flit between branches mere metres from your bed, nudging you awake with their sweet songs.

While its pristinely manicured lawns might convince you otherwise, Chewton Glen – tucked on the edge of the New Forest – is home to wildlife aplenty. With 130 acres of parkland, woods and lakes to play with, getting lost here is a pleasure, the ground blanketed with crispy orange leaves during my November visit. Amble wherever the wind takes you: to a lake surrounded by weeping willows and spiky wildflowers and populated by wild reeds, lily pads and a lone heron swooping to rest by the shore.

The only differences the treehouses bear to a traditional suite are the seclusion and elevation

Boasting elegant interiors with panoramic floor-to- ceiling windows, mini kitchens, luxurious bathrooms and the comfiest of beds, the only differences the treehouses bear to a traditional suite are the seclusion and elevation on spindly (yet sturdy) stilts as the valley slopes down and the trees spring up. A dunk in the free-standing bathtub is met with tranquil treetop views, woodland creatures scurrying between trees. For the ultimate relaxation, in-treehouse spa treatments can be arranged – though a dip in the spa’s hydrotherapy pools is also a must. The Loft Suite upstairs is a hideaway for littlies: two single beds and a huge TV await, complete with a PS5 for virtual adventures if the heavens open, while each treehouse’s private hardwood deck houses loungers, tables for eating al fresco and hot tubs.

Out here is pure peace: rustles, songbirds, and the occasional rumble of buggies whisking your neighbours to and fro the main house (summoned at the drop of a hat – or quick phone call). All creature comforts are catered for, from a dedicated concierge to continental breakfast hampers bearing freshly baked bread, juices, locally sourced jam, honey, cooked meats and cheeses, which are delivered daily. One feels almost squirrel-like gathering goodies from the kitchenette and scurrying outside to nibble on them on the balcony, cocooned by forest. With lunch, afternoon tea and supper hampers also available, you could dine in seclusion like this for every meal, if you wished – though the Dining Room and James Martin’s new spot, The Kitchen, are well worth venturing outside for.

For the ultimate relaxation, in-treehouse spa treatments can be arranged

After a little luxury R&R, it’s time to get moving: from cycling to riding through the New Forest on horseback, the Chewton Glen team can arrange it all. On site, foodies can get to grips with their surroundings on a guided foraging walk, while private falconry sessions suit animal lovers looking for a thrill. There’s also a 9-hole par-3 golf course, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, and an outdoor swimming pool in the summer months.

The beach is a short 20 minute stroll from the front door. If time is on side, head west to find Highcliffe Castle (stop for tea and homemade cake), Streamer Point (via a pretty woodland reserve), Avon Beach and Mudloch Quay, overlooking Christchurch Bay and the bobbing sailing boats this region is famed for.

BOOK IT

Treehouse Suites at Chewton Glen start from £995 per treehouse per night. chewtonglen.com