New Forest Caravan, #108

HOTEL OVERVIEW

Honestly, when I first pulled up to New Forest Caravan #108, I wasn’t sure what to expect – I mean, the address just says BH25 5Q in New Milton, which is pretty vague even by UK standards. But once you find it tucked away in this quiet corner near the forest edge, it actually makes perfect sense. This isn’t your typical hotel situation at all; it’s more like someone took a really nice static caravan and turned it into proper guest accommodation, which sounds sketchy but somehow works.

The thing about staying here is you’re literally on the doorstep of the New Forest without paying those ridiculous Lyndhurst or Brockenhurst prices. You know what I love about this spot? You can hear the ponies sometimes in the early morning – not every day, but often enough that it feels special rather than touristy. The caravan itself is surprisingly spacious (these modern ones aren’t like the cramped things your gran used to drag to Bournemouth), and whoever set it up actually thought about what travelers need. Decent shower pressure, proper heating for those damp October evenings, and a little kitchenette that’s genuinely useful if you grab supplies from the Tesco in New Milton – which is about a ten-minute drive, by the way.

Look, I’m not going to pretend this place is luxury – the 6.6 rating is probably fair, maybe even a bit harsh. The decor is functional rather than Instagram-worthy, and you might hear your neighbors if they’re having a loud phone call. But here’s the thing: you’re paying a fraction of what you’d spend at those boutique places in the forest villages, and you’re still close enough to walk to some brilliant heathland within fifteen minutes. Plus, if you’re planning day trips, you’re actually better positioned here than deeper in the forest – the A35 is right there for heading to Dorset beaches, and the train station in New Milton connects you to the main line if you fancy a day in Winchester or even London. The parking is straightforward (no fighting for spaces or feeding meters), check-in was refreshingly simple, and the whole setup just feels honest. It’s not trying to be something it isn’t, which I found quite refreshing after staying at places that promise the world and deliver corporate blandness. Perfect for couples who want to explore the area without breaking the bank, or honestly, anyone who values location and value over thread counts and fancy toiletries.