Did someone say a romantic getaway for two?
Earlier in the year we were invited to come and stay at Burley Manor. They were just about to launch their new shepherds hut. Everything sounded fantastic and we accepted the invitation. Then Covid lockdowns hit and we had to postpone until a later date in the year. Eventually we managed to get a date in November arranged and then another lockdown came into force. Finally we managed to get a date booked in December and as they say third times a charm we left to travel to the New Forest.
While we missed out on a spring getaway to the New Forest and Burley Manor, we were excited for a Christmas escape. It also happened to be the same date as our 3 year Finding our Adventure anniversary. We were really looking forward to a relaxed weekend and to celebrate.
We love the New Forest and upon entering the park we came across a few wild horses before the village of Burley. The manor has its own private drive leading to the beautiful Manor lit up in the night sky. We loved the Christmas feel as we wheeled our bag to the main entrance. There were Christmas trees and fire pits roaring in the darkness.
We were made to feel very welcome and despite all the Covid precautions we were checked in and quickly shown to the Shepherds hut that we would be staying in. It is located in the grounds of the manor, which makes it feel incredibly private and perfect for a couples getaway.
The Shepherds hut at Burley Manor is a double hut, it is basically two shepherds huts joined together. This creates two distinct spaces in the hut and makes it feel very big and luxurious. The entrance to the hut opens to the living/kitchen and bathroom area which also has a wood burner which is perfect for winter evenings.
The second section is the bedroom and free standing bath, This is the ideal space for a couple looking for a romantic escape and with it being winter, we spent most of the weekend in this part relaxing and enjoying each others company.
After unpacking our bags we settled in for the evening with a movie and excited to explore the next morning.
We woke to a breakfast hamper being delivered to our hut. We were very hungry and having fresh fruit and pastries in bed was a great way to start the day. After breakfast we went and explored the grounds of the manor. They have recently had 3 outdoor dining pods delivered that you can book and dine outside with friends. There are heaters inside the domes which keep you nice and warm.
We both had a massage booked in which we were in desperate need of, we have just come out of lockdown and the month hunched over our desk working on blogs had stiffened up our backs. The treatment was fantastic. We had the deep relaxing massage and the treatment used more oil than any other massage we’ve had. The fragrance and treatment made us relaxed that we both started to drift off, it was a 10 out of 10 experience.
As evening set in we got ready for dinner, we were very excited as the menu looked fantastic and we had heard very good things about the food. Lets just say that you will not be disappointed if you visit Burley Manor for dinner, the food was incredible.
The drinks list was extensive, we arrived early to the lounge area to have pre dinner drinks. After being show to our table we ordered bread, olives and venison salad for starters. Our mains were pork and locally sourced beef stake. The pork was succulent and the steak was the best we’ve had in the UK, it was that good.
Rolling out of the restaurant we were glad for the short walk back to our hut as it helped the food settle in our very full bellies.
We started the wood burner and got ready for bed. The hut has a large skylight above the bed which is amazing for watching the stars above. There is also a blind to block out the light for a peaceful sleep.
The next morning we decided to have breakfast in the main building to see what was on offer. We both decided to go for the avocado toast with poached egg. It was as expected by now fantastic. We sat in the conservatory and the morning sun was pouring in as we watched the deer across the grounds grazing. We had woken to the deer very close to our hut which is why the hut is called “Deer View”. It was a peaceful morning with great views and great food. We were reluctant to return home after such an incredible peaceful weekend.
With all the Covid travel restrictions right now, a long weekend at Burley Manor is a fantastic alternative to perhaps your regular getaway. We have loved exploring more of the UK this year and Burley Manor has been a highlight in a year which has been challenging.
If you are interested in staying at the Deer View Shepherds Hut at Burley Manor the current pricing is 1 night stays at £295 and 2 nights for £590. We would highly recommend a stay as this shepherds hut is truly unique and worth every penny.
