Winter may be nipping at our heels but it does have some perks, namely an excuse to hibernate and relish in a bit of R&R. Take that decorative throw off the sofa and actually snuggle up under it for a change. Spend an entire day lounging about in a cashmere robe and furry slippers (of the chic variety please, we’re not talking fluffy or fuzzy). And of course, sink into a steamy hot bathtub surrounded by aroma-infused candlelight. Better yet, dash off to a countryside retreat for the weekend and really get indulgent!

Lime Wood Hotel in Hampshire is a particular favorite. Nestled deep in New Forest National Park, the interiors of this Regency manor house were meticulously transformed by über designer David Collins. Seeing as we’re not all fortunate enough to afford his hefty (and much warranted) price tag, what better way to luxuriate in his genius than by checking into this pristine setting for a few heavenly days?

Using locally sourced stone and ash wood along with marble from Italy, traditional nickel fittings and ultra luxe Bamford bath products, Collins created bathrooms so sumptuous you might not even bother venturing over to the newly opened Herb House spa – though that would be a mistake. There’s the Sauna with forest views, the Bath House, the Mud House, the Bath Garden, the Hot Pool, and even the Roof Garden surrounded by fragrant herbs overlooking that majestic forest. With all this soaking and steaming, winter might just be bearable after all! 

Photographs © Lime Wood Hotel