The Getaway: New Forest by Paloma Lacy

This is the story of the Three Little Pigs – the modern version.

Our tale starts in South London, as my family set off on our journey down to the New Forest, in search of pigs for all.

First came Peppa Pig World, next the New Forest pigs and lastly we dropped into the much-talked about Pig Hotel.

Unfortunately, there was no availability at the Brockenhurst property, so we visited the Southampton hotel – more of this next week in a travel guide to the vibrant city of Southampton.

My family and I have long been fans of English holidays, no novice staycationers here, I’m pleased to say.

The New Forest had been on our list to tick off for some time.

We were pleased to find Forest Park Country Hotel & Inn on the edge of the national parkland, and just 10 minutes’ walk from the chocolate box village of Brockenhurst.

Luckily we arrived on a bright, sunny day and headed off in search of the big six spots for the forest – ponies, cows, sheep, deer, donkeys, and pigs.

We quickly found the first four but I’m afraid to say the final two animals evaded us.

Hampered by a heavy rain, we admitted defeat and were most disappointed not to see the wild pigs famed for living in the New Forest.

The wet weather made the sumptuous home comforts of the hotel even more important.

Recent renovation means the property is visually rather striking. Upon arrival, we couldn’t help but notice the blue plaque dedication to ex-US President, Theodore Roosevelt, a regular guest in his time.

Such accreditation can’t help but leave you thinking: “Well, if it’s good enough for Teddy.”

We were welcomed warmly at reception, which adjoins the bar area (The Inn), a hugely impressive choice of spirits on display, in particular gin, to rival any of the best London hotel bars.

A quick tour of the dining room revealed an exquisite décor, very much in keeping with the New Forest theme.

I loved the wallpaper, with its wildlife motif, sweetly bringing the lush outdoors inside.

Meals are taken in the dining room or, for a somewhat more casual approach, a table in the inn may be more appealing. The menu is seasonal, incorporating a lot of local produce from beer to dairy and meat.

The dishes are inventive and bold, with the addition of classics to please all.

We arrived on a sunny day and guests were enjoying drinks on the lawn. At the front of the hotel sit a couple of swings – the perfect place from which to watch the world go by.

Our family room/suite was just what was required to make this a true home from home – two bedrooms, a sitting room and bathroom.

Bad weather and the start UEFA Euro 2020 made our abode even more attractive.

The hotel is ideally located for those travelling via public transport – an easy walk for those with minimum luggage or £5 in a taxi.

Go to www.forestpark-hotel.co.uk

One of the main draws to this part of the country is, of course, Peppa Pig World, which sits within Paulton’s Park, 20 minutes from Brockenhurst at Romsey.

A must for any family with under fives, we succumbed to the allure and made a day trip there.

Best summed up as a sea of delighted children, all smiles as they arrive, most of whom are carried out kicking and screaming, given to the heady mix of over-stimulation and tiredness.

However, the in-between bit is hugely fun for all. It’s quite something to see and meet your Peppa Pig heroes in larger-than-life size and a picture of our little one with Peppa, George and co was a big hit.

The park is well planned out and suitably navigable for small children. The rides are exciting enough for them but for those looking for more of a thrill, choose the other areas of the park, which include Tornado Springs, Lost Kingdom, Critter Creek and Little Africa.

There’s so much to see and experience at Paulton’s Park that a day visit isn’t really enough – the two-day ticket probably represents better value. Go to www.paultonspark.co.uk

We also spent an afternoon in lovely Lymington – a charming New Forest town with a strong nautical focus.

Visit the boats in the harbour, take a trip across to the Isle of Wight, hit the boutiques on the quaint high street and in the bijoux cobbled streets, and perhaps pop into the King’s Head.

The crab and prawn sandwiches are just the ticket for a light lunch. The seaside vibe of the town continues with New Forest Ice Cream and Roly’s fudge, and the fish and chip shop looked pretty good but was fully booked during our visit.

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Getting There:

South Western Railway operates services from Waterloo into Surrey, Hampshire, Dorset and beyond. There are a range of ticket choices for journeys to the New Forest, giving you the option to choose your flexibility when booking.

Waterloo to Brockenhurst: Off Peak Return (flexible return up to 30 days after outward journey) £55.80 – some time restrictions apply on both legs.

Semi Flex Return (Fixed outward train, flexible return up to 30 days after outward journey) from £38.20 – some time restrictions apply on the return leg.

Advance Purchase Singles (Fixed train) from £10.30 each way With South Western Railway’s price promise, if you book a South Western Railway ticket through southwesternrailway.com or on the South Western Railway tickets app, you’ll get a price that can’t be beaten.

For that extra guarantee, if you see a cheaper price for the same train ticket, SWR will refund the difference.

Go to: www.southwesternrailway.com

The website:www.newforestnpa.co.uk is useful for helping you plan your trip.