Tucked away in a quiet corner of the New Forest in Beaulieu, Grade II listed hotel The Montagu Arms offers a chic and stylish escape. With its stunning bedrooms and suites, three AA Rosette Terrace Restaurantled by new Head Chef Matthew Whitfield(previously of three Michelin- starred Eleven Madison Park – voted Best Restaurant in the World in 2017), and beautiful grounds and gardens; it’s the perfect getaway for those looking for a luxurious, gastronomic experience.
Terrace Restaurant
Drawing inspiration not only from the incredible surroundings of the New Forest, but also from experiences past and present, Chef Matthew has created an elegant and refined modern British menu. Making use of only the best, fresh seasonal and local ingredients, including produce from the hotel’s own bountiful organic kitchen garden, each dish is designed to engage all the senses. From the rosemary-infused sourdough that reminds him of his mother’s Sunday roast lamb; to the smoked partridge dish that evokes the smell of gorse being burnt on the New Forest heathland; each dish is an homage to a certain point in Matthew’s life.
Though the menus change daily, guests can expect the likes of slow cooked squid with cauliflower and confit mushroom; roasted Hampshire beef fillet with confit cheek, beer braised onions and pickled walnut; and roasted garlic and cheese gnocchi with rainbow chard, roasted onions and wild mushrooms. Desserts might include a Seville orange soufflé with bitter dark chocolate ice cream; and a warm hazelnut financier with praline cream.
With an impressive wine cellar featuring over 2,000 bottles, Head Sommelier Sergio dos Santoshas carefully curated a collection to perfectly complement Matthew’s food. With a focus on biodynamic and organic wines, Sergio is continually evolving and refining his list, showcasing only the best examples of wine in the restaurant, from emerging wine regions as well as from more traditional and classic producers.
With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the beautiful gardens, the Terrace Restaurant also provides the perfect setting to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea, from thinly sliced finger sandwiches to delicate pastries and warm scones, smothered with homemade jam and thick, soft clotted cream. For those who prefer savoury, swap pastries and cakes with the likes of warm vol- au-vents, Scotch eggs and pork pies with tangy pickle.
Monty’s Inn
Offering a more casual dining choice, Monty’s Innis The Montagu Arms’ quintessential country pub, serving delicious home-made food and fine local ale. Making use of local suppliers, pork comes from Pondhead Farm in Lyndhurst and beef is supplied from Adlerstone Farm near Romsey, whilst a selection of real ales and craft beers come from Ringwood Brewery, and Dancing Cow Lymington Gin is distilled just a stone’s throw away.
Head Chef Tom Sheppardserves classic heritage cooking and English favourites, from hearty Scotch eggs to game pies and a British cheese ploughman’s lunch. Come Sunday, Monty’s Inn is a perfect stop off for a roast after a day of exploring the New Forest. Enjoy Hampshire top-side beef with duck fat roast potatoes, a Yorkshire pudding and a selection of seasonal veg.
Beautiful Bedrooms
Those looking to spend the night can choose from 24 bedrooms and suites – including two new duplex Hayloft Suites– each unique in design and layout, combining comfort and sophistication for the ultimate relaxing stay. Decorated in a chic and charming country house style, soft tones and textures create a peaceful space, whilst cosy armchairs and window seats provide an ideal spot to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee and the morning paper.
Some rooms benefit from decadent locally crafted four-poster beds, whilst others feature traditional wood panelling and large lead-lined windows, with views over the beautiful grounds. Fresh flowers from the garden are placed in each room for that extra special touch, and a fluffy robe and slippers come as standard for each guest, as do luxury bath products from The White Company, and homemade biscuits. Other amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, a Nespresso coffee machine and a flat screen TV with Freeview.
Gourmet Weddings
The perfect wedding venue for foodie fanatics, The Montagu Arms offers a luxury setting in a romantic and exclusive location. New for 2019 is the Montagu Curatedwedding package, where Head Chef Matthew will create a bespoke seven-course wedding breakfast, paired with the finest wines by Head Sommelier Sergio dos Santos. The expert team will also design a unique signature wedding cocktail to be enjoyed at the reception by bride, groom and guests, along with a number of delicious canapés.
From intimate celebrations through to larger weddings, the hotel has a choice of spaces, from the Terrace Restaurantoverlooking the gardens, The Oakwood Roomwith its original parquet flooring and oak panelling, and The Paris Roomwith its open fire and delicate details, the experienced events team at The Montagu Arms will work with you to create the wedding of your dreams.
For more information or to book, visit www.montaguarmshotel.co.uk
