Homewood Alderholt

Homewood is near Fordingbridge in Hampshire. It's a barn conversion done a few years ago. Sleeps eight across four bedrooms, with three bathrooms.

It's got a 5 Star rating, which essentially means it's been finished to a high standard. The floors are polished concrete with rugs. The main staircase is glass, which looks good but can be a bit slippy for socks. Something to be aware of if you've got kids.

You get your own enclosed garden areas, one east and one south facing. They're sunny. There's outdoor seating, a BBQ and a firepit. There's also a shared pizza oven you can book. The owners have chickens, so you can often get fresh eggs.

The property is part of a small group of converted barns. They can be booked together for larger groups, up to twenty people, if you ask the owners first. There's also a play area for children.

You have access to about forty acres of private ancient woodland right from the property. It's full of bluebells in spring. It links to the Avon Valley Path, which goes all the way to Salisbury if you're feeling ambitious. On-site, you can arrange archery or axe throwing. Fishing is available in the River Avon.

Fordingbridge town is close. It has shops, cafes and the river runs through it. Ringwood is about fifteen minutes by car for more options.

You're on the edge of the New Forest. Ponies and cattle roam freely. For organised activities, Moors Valley Country Park is nearby with cycling, Go Ape and golf. The New Forest Water Park does wakeboarding and aqua parks.

Further afield, within about thirty minutes, you've got places like Salisbury, the coast at Bournemouth and Poole, or Beaulieu Motor Museum. The cathedral cities of Winchester and Salisbury are both within easy reach.

Useful links for planning: New Forest National Park Authority and National Trust Dorset.

Facilities: all the usual things like wifi, washing machine, dishwasher. Bedding and towels are included. There's on-site parking and an electric vehicle charger. Up to two well-behaved dogs are welcome. If you're bringing a horse, stabling can be arranged by talking to the owners beforehand.