A pint of real ale and a huge glass of Pimms, sat in an idyllic riverside pub garden on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
The only thing that could possibly make this scene any more “British” would have been the rain. Luckily however, the weather played ball during Björn and my mini road trip along the South coast of England last month. We even managed to get a bit of colour, though Björn’s pale Icelandic skin went from white to a lovely shade of pink, rather than sun-kissed tan.
After mine and Björn’s fun-filled Icelandic road trip to the Westfjords back in April, Björn decided he wanted to me visit me in the UK. As much as I love my home town (and boy, do I love it), I didn’t want him to be stuck in Reading for the five days he was over – after all, he had shown me some of the most beautiful parts of Iceland, it was only fair I reciprocated. So I planned a mini road trip for us along the South coast of England, with stops in Brighton, West Wittering, Bournemouth, the New Forest, Swanage and Lulworth. Our night in the New Forest was by far the best night, with delicious food at The Mayflower in Lymington and a really restful night’s sleep at The Mill at Gordleton.
When searching for accommodation for our road trip, I wanted to book somewhere a little different, somewhere less mainstream, not a bog-standard hotel chain. I wanted a place to stay that Björn couldn’t experience in Iceland (or any other country in Europe), somewhere with character that screamed “this is England”. You can’t really get anymore British than a good, old boozer, so the creeper-covered Mill was the perfect choice.
It was definitely not “run of the mill”…
Where is Gordleton Mill?
Located in the tiny New Forest hamlet of Gordleton, The Mill is a short drive from Brockenhurst, Lymington and Milford-on-Sea, so an ideal stopover if you’re heading to the New Forest (which you most definitely should be doing – it’s my favourite part of the UK). Set alongside the river Avon, the building is a former water-mill surrounded by lawns and woodland, and crisscrossed by weirs, rivulets, ponds and little bridges.
After being lovingly restored, the Mill turned into a traditional British public house with a twist: if offers eight boutique bedrooms for guests in the main building, and a further four situated in the Mill House.
Though I once worked in a pub with rooms, I’d never actually stayed in a pub myself, so was really looking forward to our stay. And while it may not have been a 5 star, all-inclusive resort (like the one mum and I booked in the Dominican Republic), it was definitely one of the prettiest, most picturesque, places I’ve spent the night.
Inside Gordleton Mill.
The decor inside The Mill can only be described as “eclectic”. Traditional wood paneling and earthy neutral tones clash with vibrant velvet prints and glitzy gold gild frames. Mismatching pieces of period furniture that should – in normal circumstances – never be placed next to each other, are somehow compatible, complimentary.
The light and airy, yet cute and compact bar area was my favourite part of The Mill. If the bruised and battered parquet flooring could talk, I’m sure it’d have plenty of stories to tell. Stories of pints being pulled from the shiny pumps protruding from the polished bar, and bottoms squidged on the worn leather of the Chesterfield armchairs, cosy in front of the fire. If I could design my dream living room, it would be an exact replica of that bar area (complete with giant goblet of Pimms).
From the bar to the lobby, even the floor of the toilets had Instagrammable details:
And then into the sitting room, which was dominated by a gigantic mirror, a gorgeous cast iron fireplace, a reclaimed old chest and some beautiful chairs. See what I mean about mismatching yet complimentary? So many details; I could have snapped a hundred more pictures, at least, had there not people passing through to the dining room, staring at me as I clicked away with my mobile phone.
I then stepped down into an unoccupied private dining room, with a huge table laid up with The Mill’s finest silverware and polished glasses. It looked fit for a Disney-style feast, and I half expected the knives and forks to get up and give me a verse from Beauty and the Beast. Dining room goals, or what?
The room can be hired for private functions, business meetings and events, for which The Mill can provide screens, free wifi, stationary and catering. But, if you’re looking for something a little more personal, the pub is also licensed for wedding ceremonies, with room for up to 16 guests. Just gotta find me a groom now…
Rooms at Gordleton Mill.
The main building at The Mill has eight individually decorated rooms, all of which have an en-suite bathroom with toiletries, tea and coffee-making facilities, a TV and free wifi. The Mill House, which is separate from the main building, has another four rooms, designed for guests looking for a chic, boutique room with contemporary modern comforts. Along with the en-suite and toiletries, the Mill House rooms also come with a Smart TV (with Netflix and BBC iPlayer access), as well as some locally made shortbread biscuits, bottled water and a selection of teas. We were booked into one of the Mill House rooms, and boy, what a room.
Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever stayed in a prettier room than ours at The Mill. As I opened the door and stepped inside, my gaze was instantly drawn to a big, beautiful bed in front of me. Covered in a blush pink throw, adorned with matching cushions and crowned by a chunky, grey crushed velvet headboard, it took all my willpower not to jump right in and snuggle up. And, had it not been 3pm in the afternoon I may well have done, after taking a million pictures, of course.
But wait a moment, what was that little creature in the middle of the bed?
On closer inspection, I realised The Most Beautiful Bed In The World was being guarded a duck-shaped doorstop. I’d overheard a group of people discussing duck in the bar earlier, but thought they’d been talking about their food. Intrigued, I had a quick look on the pub’s website: Crispie Duck seems to be a bit of a celeb at The Mill, after being rescued and hand-reared by manager Terri and her husband, back in 2007.
Unfortunately Crispie has long since passed, but her legacy lives on around the pub, with beautiful handmade door stops in every room, fabric duck paper weights and gorgeous little key rings. Made by local crafters, they can all be purchased as souvenirs of your stay at The Mill. What’s more, proceeds go to HART (Hampshire Art for Recreation and Therapy), so not only are these little duck souvenirs cute, they’re for a good cause too.
Fast forward eight hours, and after a lovely meal in Lymington, it was time to get into The Most Beautiful Bed In The World. It was the best night’s sleep I’ve had in such a long time. Waking up the following morning I felt refreshed, energised and ready to face anything. I honestly don’t think I’ve slept that well since January last year (doesn’t help that, as I’m in the process of decorating my new house, I’ve been sleeping on a sofa bed for the last six months).
Apart from the beautiful decor, the floral prints, the pastel colours and the really comfortable bed, the bathroom was definitely a highlight of staying at Gordleton Mill. Modern, clean and tastefully decorated, it was small, but big enough, if that makes sense?
There was a selection of Anne Semonin toiletries laid out by the sink, and big, fresh fluffy towels hanging on the heated towel rail. The best part of the bathroom though, was the amazing, state-of-the-art shower:
I’ve never had a shower experience like it. It had both a handheld shower hose and an overhead shower head, and the overhead one had four different settings. Can you see the buttons on it? One of those buttons turned the powerful jet spray into a mini massage, which pulsated on my head. It’s hard to describe, and I have no idea what make or model shower it was, but take my word for it: Best. Shower. Ever. Don’t believe me? You’ll just have to head to The Mill and check it out for yourself.
Leisure facilities at Gordleton Mill.
Sitting on the edge of the New Forest, The Mill ideally situated for day trips into the Hampshire countryside or for exploring the south of England and its stunning coastline.
The 13th Century Beaulieu Abbey and the maritime village of Buckler’s Hard are less than 30 minutes drive away, and a little further afield are Salisbury and Winchester cathedrals. The quaint villages of Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst are nearby, perfect for afternoon tea, or you might fancy a bit of yacht spotting at Hamble Point. And as already mentioned, the Georgian sailing town of Lymington isn’t far at all – which was where we headed after we left The Mill.
If you’d prefer to spend your time just at the pub (I mean, who wouldn’t when the pub looks this pretty?), you can get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life by escaping to the grounds of The Mill. There are plenty of hidden spots and places to sit and relax – which looked really beautiful in the May sunshine. Or you can wander around the pub’s Art Gardens, which feature sculptures and exhibits from local artists.
Food and drink at Gordleton Mill.
After checking out of our hotel in Bournemouth early on the Sunday morning, I drove us to Christchurch for a wander around a food festival. It seemed the whole of Christchurch and his dog was there, making the most of the glorious May weather. As we made our way through the throng of people, Björn looked a little overwhelmed by the amount of people (remember, he comes from an island with a total population of 330,000 – that’s 37,000 less than the population of Christchurch alone!). But he was also curious about all the stalls selling homemade, locally produced food and drink. We grabbed a beer and sat in the sun for a few hours, people watching and chatting.
After realising our car park ticket had run out, we made a dash back to the car, and followed the twisty-turny country lanes over to Gordleton.
Too early to check in to our room (check in is at 3pm), we grabbed a seat in the bar area and I ordered Björn a beer and myself a Pimms. As I carried them back to our table he looked confused. He then matter-of-factedly asked if I had to “drink the drink and eat the meat”? Cue fits of giggles as I realised that when the bartender had said he needed to put “mint” in my drink, Björn had misheard it for “meat”, and then mistaken the grapefruit slices for pieces of cured ham.
After wiping away the tears of laughter that were rolling down my cheeks, I went back to the bar to order us some sandwiches to tide us over until our dinner reservation later that night.
I’ll admit, the sandwiches were a little disappointing. There were only two options on the menu: ham or cheese. I plumped for ham while Björn went for cheese, though we decided to do swapsies and have a couple of each others, just to mix things up a bit. The bread was a normal, shop-brought loaf and the ham looked suspiciously like it’d come straight from a packet from the fridge, too. Considering the price we’d paid (£7 each), I expected a more than what we got. But it filled a hole and kept us going until dinner time.
I can’t comment on the food served in the restaurant, as we didn’t eat in there – but the plates of Sunday roast that were coming out to diners seated in the bar area near us looked pretty impressive.
We did have breakfast the following morning though…
When we headed back over to the main building for breakfast, the dining room was busy but silent; that was until Björn and I arrived and started chatting animatedly about everything on the menu.
I really wanted to try The Mill’s full English breakfast, because again, there isn’t anything more quintessentially British than a fry up of (slightly burnt) sausages, bacon, eggs, black pudding, mushrooms, tomatoes and fried bread (hold the baked beans, I hate them). But after our big meal at The Mayflower the night before, I decided to go for a healthier, smaller option: smoked salmon and scrambled egg on toast. Accompanied by a glass of ice-cold apple juice and a big mug of milky coffee, it was the perfect way to start the day.
Björn opted for sunny-side up fried eggs and beans on toast, with a side of porridge. He said the porridge was delicious, though I’m not a big porridge fan myself, so didn’t try it.
Tips for staying at Gordleton Mill.
If, after reading my review, you’re considering a stay at The Mill, here are a few things to bear in mind:
- When approaching the pub from Lymington, the sat nav will take you down Sway Road. This turns into Silver Street at the top of a hill, and as you head down and round the bend, The Mill will be there on your right. It’s a sharp turning, so go slow or you’ll miss it.
- Don’t worry if you’ve forgotten anything toiletry-wise, as the bathrooms at The Mill have everything you could ever need (including Björn’s beloved cotton buds, and an emery board for when I broke a nail).
- Remember that The Mill is a pub – and what do pubs produce a lot of? Empty glass bottles, which will need collecting from a recycling lorry early in the morning. So if you’re a light sleeper it might be wise to request a room at the back of the property. I’m not sure if bin day is every day, but certainly that Monday morning we were awoken by the smashing of glass as the bins were emptied into the truck.
- The rooms all have a maximum capacity of two people, which is perfect for a romantic retreat sans kiddies, but if you’ve got a larger group then you might have to book two (or more) rooms.
- There is plenty of parking for guests staying overnight (though my little green car looked a somewhat out-of-place next to the Land Rovers and Porches of the New Forest parked at the front, so I hid it round the back by the Mill House garage).
Gordleton Mill: the verdict.
If you’re heading to the New Forest and looking for somewhere pretty, rural, traditional yet quirky to stay, then I cannot recommend the Gordleton Mill enough. Home to The Most Beautiful Bed In The World, I had the best night’s sleep there, as well as the best shower I’ve had in ages.
My only regret about staying at The Mill, was that I didn’t stay there longer. As I mentioned before, the New Forest is my favourite place in the UK, so I would have loved to have spent a few extra days in Gordleton, exploring more of the local area and trying some of the food in the restaurant – it did look pretty tasty, and the menus online are very tempting. The Art Gardens looked lovely too, but unfortunately we didn’t have time to explore them.
But as the New Forest is less than a two-hour drive from Reading, I’m sure I’ll be back soon enough (hopefully while the weather is still “Pimms perfect”).
*****
Disclaimer: We stayed at The Mill at Gordleton on Sunday 13 May 2018 for one night, in a standard double room on bed and breakfast basis. The room cost £159 for two people for 1 night, but my stay was gifted by StayInAPub.com and Gordleton Mill. All opinions in this review are my own, however.
I absolutely love the decor and theme! The pink chair and the blanket on the bed make it look girly but still classy at the same time. Lovely place x
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s beautiful – you and the bloke should take a trip down there sometime, it’s less than 2hrs drive from Reading, so would be perfect for a weekend away x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow this place is done up so well I would sure love to go and visit one day.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Have you ever been to the New Forest before Hannah? x
LikeLike
The New Forest is such a lovely place to visit and you really can’t beat a beautiful country pub – although not many are as beautiful as this one. That dining room!
C x
LikeLiked by 1 person
You know what, I actually don’t think I’ve been in a cuter, more Instagrammable pub! x
LikeLike
I love the New Forest it is such a beautiful place to go and spend time and this hotel looks so nice. The decor is gorgeous and the ducks on the keys too cute!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sounds like you love the New Forest as much as me Sarah 🙂 x
LikeLike
I just love the cozy feel of the Mill in the New Forest. The rooms are fantastic! The dining table would make me feel like I was someone special! Hope to be able to visit this place someday!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You could bring the dog if you do Kristine 😉 x
LikeLike
This is such a pretty place to stay, I’ve stayed in a pub a few times before and it’s always been really nice and very comfortable feeling x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oooh which pubs have you stayed in Rhian? Would love to stay in some more pubs x
LikeLike
Hotels like this make the vacation more worth it! I love the simplicity of it all. Spending the weekend here will definitely make you feel relaxed and rested.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, I agree – I much prefer simple and rustic over ornate and OTT! x
LikeLike
This looks like you had a lovely stay. Always nice to have a break away for sure x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Couldn’t agree more! x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gorgeous interior and wonderful atmosphere! I am sure that this hotel worth staying there during the vacation.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The interior is gorgeous isn’t it – I love all the little details 🙂 x
LikeLike
I love the look of this place. The ivy growing on the front of the building just tells you it’s going to be a great place to stay!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ivy creeping up buildings is such a British thing isn’t it? x
LikeLike
Wow, it looks beautiful. I have always wanted to spend time in the New Forest as we’ve never been for more than a day trip before. The Mill looks like the perfect location for a family break and I love the eclectic decor. It sounds like you had a great time 🙂 Maybe next time you visit you’ll be able to try the full breakfast.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope so, it looked amazing! I do love a good fry up 🙂 x
LikeLike
Gordleton Mill looks so British and quaint and I am sure Björn enjoyed it very much, the food looks very appetising as well. Will definitely be stopping by here when we head to New Forest.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ahhh fabulous, glad to hear it! x
LikeLike
oh my, the interior and exterior is absolutely beautiful. I really love the bathroom!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s really nice isn’t it! I’d love my bathroom at home to look like that x
LikeLike
I love the New Forest, it’s such a pretty part of the country. This looks like a great place to explore from, definitely full of British charm.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s a great place to stay if you want to explore the surrounding areas, like the towns of Lymington, Brockenhurst and the smaller little villages 🙂 x
LikeLike
I bet you had a wonderful time. Love the Chesterfields!!!! The inn looks lovely from the outside and in. I miss these sorts of trips – we used to go places like this with my parents. Always handy when they have toiletries as someone is bound to forget something. The bed looks super comfy. What a great place to go and relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The Chesterfields are gorgeous, aren’t they Melanie! You’re 100% right, it’s a great place to stay to escape from all the stress of the city – and less than 2hrs drive from my house 😉 x
LikeLike
What a cute place to stay. When you think English countryside, that’s what you imagine. It looks incredibly cosy and that Pimms looks pretty mean too. Food looks like a decent spread too, although that porridge looks a little watery for me, but I like porridge that resembles wallpaper paste. If ever I’m travelling around that way, I’ll be sure to give it a look.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You and Adam would love it Kellee, it’s the perfect place to spend a weekend, and Adam could go visit Beaulieu motor museum, which isn’t too far away x
LikeLike
I usually don’t prioritize accommodations when it comes to traveling, but this article definitely changed my mind! What an amazing place. I love the decor and the little attention to detail like the welcome sign – simple, classy, & beautiful!
LikeLiked by 1 person
All the little details are what makes this place so quirky and unique 🙂 I loved my stay there x
LikeLike
It is a shame that the sandwiches were a little disappointing but apart from that Gordleton Mill looks ideal for stays in the New Forest, which is a beautiful area to explore as well. And seeing as I have never been to the New Forest before, at least I know where to stay if I manage to make the journey. I love the quaint decor of the hotel too and that iron cast fireplace is beautiful as well!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can’t believe you’ve never been to the New Forest Ana – it’s so close to us! You definitely need to make a trip down x
LikeLike
What an adorable place, I love the way it’s decorated. I can so see myself staying there and enjoying a Pimms.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Pimms is delicious isn’t it Mary – such a perfect drink for summer 🙂 x
LikeLike
You certainly have an eye for detail! 🙂 I’ve never stayed in a pub myself, but this one looks compelling. Perhaps the next time I visit the UK!
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a charming place. I absolutely adore Crispie Duck. And is that Lumiere I spot on the table? I would love to go here when I do visit the UK.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha! The dining room definitely has a Beauty and the Beast feel doesn’t it 🙂 such a lovely place – I hope you manage to visit the UK soon Priya! x
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a beautiful hotel, loved everything from the entrance with so many green spaces to the beautifully decorated interiors, would love to visit!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The ivy creeping up the wall is great isn’t it, very British! x
LikeLike
This place looks ADORABLE, and I love love love all the little details. The story about their little duck was so sweet, and I love how he lives on at the hotel!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know, it’s super cute isn’t it! And her name was Crispie haha! x
LikeLike
We often stay in the New Forest and have never heard of this place before now. Love the decor inside and it is perfectly located x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well now you know about it Dawn, you’ll have to pay The Mill a visit x
LikeLike
I love that this place is cozy and quaint without being run-down. And the fact that you have a great bar and restaurant right below you is so ideal, especially in a rural area!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, staying in a pub definitely has its perks 😉 x
LikeLike
Gordleton Mill is so adorable. You have an eye for detail. The pictures you have captured are so instagrammable. I have not been to the UK yet but I am sure I would fall in love with New Forest and would surely keep in mind about this mill. Staying in a mill? How cool is that!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I really hope you make it over to the UK one day Shreya – if you do, let me know, I’d be happy to be your tour guide 🙂 x
LikeLike
What a beautiful hotel! It looks like such a cute place for a weekend getaway and it seems they looked after you really well. I’ll have to remember them if we’re ever over that way.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway if you’re in the New Forest area 🙂 cannot recommend it enough! x
LikeLike
First of all I love the architecture behind the hotels exterior especially the interior design with a vintage concept. I would love to experience the place someday.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s beautiful, isn’t it? Modern meets vintage decor that somehow just works x
LikeLike
This looks like such a lovely place to stay I absolutely love the decor and the homely feel to it. It looks like the perfect romantic getaway place.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was pretty romantic, yes – though I was just there with a friend 😉 It would be ideal for someone looking to treat someone special though! x
LikeLike
I love the decor! This looks like a gorgeous place to stay. So happy that Björn came to visit 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is such a beautiful place isn’t it? And it was fun to spend time with Bjorn x
LikeLike
It’s so interesting to read about a hotel in a pub! I’ve never stayed at one either, and the Mill looks like a lovely, and cosy, choice. You’re right about the decor too; it’s very striking and colourful. Such a shame about there being only 2 choices of sandwiches, but the breakfast surely made up for it. Will remember this for sure if I ever visit this part of the UK.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Staying in a pub is definitely the way forward in my opinion! It’s crazy, so many pubs in the UK have rooms, but because they’re not big chain hotels they’re not listed on sites like Booking.com or Trivago, so tourists don’t even consider them when booking their accomodation. And what could be more British than a pub?! x
LikeLike
When you imagine a hotel/pub I don’t think you imagine a place as beautiful as this! I would love to stay here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s exactly why I loved it so much Iya – when you think of pubs you think of dirty, dark, dingey places, nothing like this x
LikeLiked by 1 person
The best thing about this place is that it looks so homey and warm. Not like other hotels or resorts with facades that are too business-like. Visitors would feel very welcome here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re totally right! It’s has a very homely feel – I think that adds to the charm of the Gordleton Mill 🙂 x
LikeLike
I really like the rustic ambiance and the green spaces that are there. The food and decor all provide a relaxing environment for their visitors.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re 100% right Elle, it was a really relaxing night there x
LikeLike
Shame it’s only 2 to a room as I would have to take my kids if we went and wouldn’t want them in a separate room but I guess the place is probably more designed for couples and not families.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I adore the New Forest, what a beautiful place to visit and enjoy. This hotel looks so accommodating.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The New Forest is beautiful isn’t it – one of my favourite places in the UK! x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh Goodness! Talk about absolute comfort and this is it! The rooms, the calming atmosphere, the wonderful outdoors, the eats, the interior decor…Too much goodies at Gordleton for sure!
LikeLiked by 1 person
t’s beautiful, isn’t it 🙂 so homely and comfortable x
LikeLiked by 1 person
You have taking some really gorgeous pictures. I love the décor and design of the place I would love to visit one day
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow this looks amazing! We LOVE the new forest, it’s such a gorgeous place to stay, and this hotel looks so luxurious!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, I love the New Forest too – love getting lost down all the little country lanes and just winding up at a beautiful pub (much like this one hehe) x
LikeLike
Looks like a perfect place for a haunting experience. lol I sort of drifted off to find out about your cheap Dominican Republic trip. Hope you had a blast. I have visited the DR three times in the past year and always meet a few Brits.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha! Nice to hear that you went on to read about my DR trip – completely different to this one of course, but I’d definitely head back to DR if the opportunity came up x
LikeLike
Wow this hotel is absolutely stunning, the photos are breathtaking. Makes me want to book a trip there right now!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You should! It’s a gorgeous place for a weekend away 🙂 x
LikeLiked by 1 person
That hotel looks absolutely lovely!! It is exactly the kind of place I would want to stay in if I were visiting. The pub looks very inviting and the room lool s very comfortable too. We drove through the new forest and saw lots of horses and ponies. Wish we could have stayed a while!
LikeLiked by 1 person
The New Forest is famous for its wild ponies, but we didn’t see any on our trip this time 😦 but as the New Forest is less than 2 hrs drive from my house, no reason why I couldn’t head there again soon 😉 x
LikeLike
The South coast of England seems truly picturesque and definitely worth exploring, This hotel looks so lovely, cosy and luxurious. I’d love to stay there thanks to your review. When’s the best time of the year to explore the South coast of England?
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a beautiful place. I like the interior decor. Lots of instagrammable spots here. Great for bloggers 😁
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, that’s exactly what I thought too! x
LikeLike
Wow, the docor is beautiful. I love the country look they have going on and the ivy covering the front of the building.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The ivy is such a British thing, isn’t it! x
LikeLike
Looks like a great place, although based on your description I think I’d spend half my time in the fancy shower.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a gorgeous place to stay! My husband and I are looking for somewhere nice to go to in July, I’ll have to show him your post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Looks like such a lovely stay! It has so many unique aspects. I LOVE the looks of the drink with the strawberries in it, too. Delish!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Strawberries are one of the main ingredients of a Pimms 😉 such a lovely summer drink! x
LikeLike
I often drive past here and wonder what it is like inside. It looks beautiful and the food delicious – I would love a stay here, even if it is only up the road
LikeLiked by 1 person
No excuses if it’s only up the road hehe! 😉 Even if you don’t spend the night, you could always pop there for a meal Kara 🙂 x
LikeLike
I haven’t ever been to new forest, the mill looks and sounds lovely! Putting it on my list now!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You should visit The New Forest if you can Chi Chi – it’s a beautiful part of the UK x
LikeLike
Wow, the Gordleton Mill in New Forest looks absolutely gorgeous yet charming at the same time! I’m in the states and I have never heard of a Pub also being a hotel… Is this common in England?
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t think it’s that common, which is why it’s so nice to stay somewhere a little less conventional x
LikeLike
I like that the whole building is green! Makes really a different feeling after concrete jungle. That is the place I love to have rest after the city…
… but I kinda live in such green place myself 🙂 So I often travel to the cities.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So you’re the opposite of me Alex – I live in a concrete sort of town, so much prefer escaping to places like this 😉 x
LikeLike
How charming is this place?! I love adorable inns. They have so much more character than a huge hotel chain. And I love Pimm’s!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I mean, who doesn’t love Pimms?! x
LikeLike
This is such a quaint place to be. All the pictures are amazing and I hope you had a great time over there. Loved it !
LikeLiked by 1 person
We had a really peaceful, good night’s sleep there 🙂 thanks Sayanti! x
LikeLike
Gosh, what an idyllic looking place to stay! I have worked in many pubs too, but I’ve never stayed in one. For some reason, I always thought it would be a bit naff or rowdy, but The Mill looks absolutely beautiful. I love the mixed matched furniture, really gives it character.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, I thought the exact same Rachael – I guess The Mill proves otherwise hehe! x
LikeLike
Looks like you had a lovely time! It looks like a very beautiful area, and the Gordleton Mill looks so quaint and cozy! Whenever I imagine pub rooms, I just expect them to be a bit “meh” but these pictures clearly prove me wrong!
LikeLiked by 1 person
As you look at the front it looks like it will be quaint. I love the beautiful flowers and greenery on site also. The ducks here an there makes a fun story. The design of The Mill Gordleton is different but in a fun funky way, love the vanity and pink chair.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The vanity unit is beautiful isn’t it 🙂 proper bedroom interior design inspo here x
LikeLike
I’ll have to check out Gordleton Mill next time I’m in the New Forest. Love that part of the country, it’s so beautiful. That Pimms looks delicious too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love the New Forest too – so lucky that it’s not too far away to drive to x
LikeLike
Oh wow this looks so beautiful – we go to the New Forest every now and again, so I must remember to look into this more when we next plan a visit 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
This looks such a quintessentially British place to visit – Perfect to introduce your visitor too. I would love to visit the New Forest one day. So many people recommend it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love how comfortable and homey this is. And it is surrounded by a forest? Wow How lovely! Would want to try checking in there, too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, I definitely recommend visiting the New Forest area if you’re ever in the UK Sigrid x
LikeLike
Wow! That’s a beautiful room, that shower looks perfect! I love the New Forest.
Katie
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love visiting beautiful hotels. I’ll keep this in mind for sure.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Me too – this is definitely one of the nicest places I’ve stayed in the UK! x
LikeLike
What a beautiful place to stay… I mean you literally had me at Pimms. We are wanting to do a UK date, just the husband and I, so I look forward to possibly staying at this place.
PS. Thanks for the GPS tip!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ooooh that would be so nice for you – it’s a very romantic place 😉 x
LikeLike
This sounds like the perfect getaway. We are moving back to Hampshire in the next couple of weeks and we could drop the kids off with Granny on the way down to the New Forest! Perfect! To be honest I would go there for that Pimms alone – stunning! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ahhh sounds like a really romantic treat for you x
LikeLike
This place looks truly lovely! I have been wanting desperately to visit the UK and have never been able to. My husband has been traveling over there a lot more lately for business an I know once the kids (mainly my daughter) gets a bit older and I am able to leave her with Nana, I will be able to join him, so I see a trip to the UK and beyond in my near future.
Thank you for sharing this, I will definitely keep it in mind when I make my plans.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ahhh it sounds like you and hubby could do with a lovely, romantic little break away – the Mill at Gordleton would be perfect for that Lissette x
LikeLike
Adorable place for a nice rest and recharge. Lovely fittings and decor to go. A 10 i rate it outta 10.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, the decor is beautiful isn’t it 🙂 Thanks for your comment Lex x
LikeLike
Looks amazing. We recently stayed in Bournemouth but are looking at going back for a New Forest stay.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Immediately fell in love with this place, just looking at your photos. Those high back Victorian chairs look so plush and comfy. Wishing I could visit the place someday too!
LikeLiked by 1 person
They’re gorgeous, aren’t they? Wish I had them in my living room 😉 x
LikeLike
This looks like a fantastic place to stay. Would love to stay here
LikeLiked by 1 person
Have you ever been to the area before Hannah? It’s gorgeous x
LikeLike
Looks like a nice and cosy hotel. Would love to stay there for a weekend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Have you ever been to this part of the UK before? x
LikeLike
I must say that is a beautiful room! I love the headboard, and that dining room! I was thinking this would be great for weddings and then I read where you wrote the same thing. I was laughing out loud at the whole mistaking the “mint” for “meat”! I bet you guys are still laughing about that! I love staying in places that are quaint and scream “I’m in *insert destination*” and The Mill is just that!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for your comment Heather – nice to hear I’m not the only one thinking it would be the perfect spot for a wedding! x
LikeLike
GORDLETON MILL, THE NEW FOREST LOOKS PRETTY INTERESTING. WOULD LOVE TO VISIT IT SOON. WILL ADD THIS ON MY TO-VISIT PLACE. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s a really beautiful part of the UK – so I definitely recommend visiting if you’re ever in this part of the world Angela x
LikeLike
I love the decor and the color palette for their understated elegance. You really have an eye for details. Besides, the food looks light and refreshing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Mohana – the colour scheme for the rooms at the Gordleton Mill was really dreamy and romantic x
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a lovely places to visit , there are so many wonderful places to visit in the UK. The hotel looks lovely so glad your friend got to see some of the lovely British countryside and towns.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It definitely made a difference from just seeing London all the time, that’s for sure x
LikeLike
The decor like you described is mismatchy but somehow it all looks perfect. I loved the sitting room mirror and sofa setup, and ofcourse the fancy dining room, it is very fancy. The room looks super cozy, the entire place definitely has English vibes. Great choice.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Suma – have you ever visited this part of the UK? x
LikeLike
This looks so dreamy and I love little hotel stays!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was a really cute place to stay! x
LikeLike
Wow, I love when a hotel goes above and beyond for their guests! I wish more hotels were like this one.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s just so cute, isn’t it 🙂 x
LikeLike
What an absolutely amazing place to escape to. Love the added duck on the bed and for me the food looks amazing
LikeLiked by 1 person
The little duck details everywhere were so cute ❤ x
LikeLike
Your room looked fantastic, indeed! That’s so nice that you were able to bring Bjorn such a nice experience after what sounds like a great trip in Iceland. I love eclectic hotels like this: looks like a great stop if I’m ever road tripping England (which I hope to do some day soon!).
LikeLiked by 1 person
Fingers crossed you’re able to pop over this way soon! x
LikeLike
This is so beautiful, I would love to go and visit there one day in future. Thank you for sharing them its like a dream.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope you make it there one day Shraddha – thank you for your kind comment x
LikeLike
This hotel looks amazing! It’s so beautiful and I love the charm that it has. Also can we talk about those drinks at the bar!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hehe! Pimms is pretty special 😉 let’s talk about it over a glass one together one day x
LikeLike
What a gorgeous hotel! A shame the sandwiches weren’t up to scratch but that breakfast surely looks like it made up for it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, the sandwiches weren’t anything to write home about, but I did appreciate the Pimms 😉 x
LikeLike
This definitely looks like a place that we would love to stay. I love the vines outside and the vintage vibe indoors.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The interior design is so inspiring isn’t it! I love it ❤ x
LikeLike
This hotel is beautiful! You did such a wonderfully thorough review of the hotel. That goblet of Pimms looks delicious, and I love the decor! I love those high backed chairs with the purple tones in them!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Jodi – I always think a thorough review will be more helpful for the next person looking to book the place 😉 x
LikeLike
This place looks amazing! The drinks and decor look so fun! This hotel seems to be the perfect stay for a getaway. I’ll have to keep them in mind, thanks for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Have you ever been to this part of the UK before Nicole? If not, I definitely recommend a trip 🙂 x
LikeLike
Now that is a nice place to crash. It has such a gorgeous, in home feel to it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s really homely isn’t it Louise 🙂 x
LikeLike
What a charming place to stay! I love the exterior of the building, and the drinks and food look absolutely delicious.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The drinks were tasty – the sandwiches not so much LOL x
LikeLike
Wow this place looks stunning and your pictures are beautiful! Your room looked so comfortable and cosy that I wouldn’t want to venture out! The food and drinks also look sublime!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was a really cosy room Nic – have you ever been to the New Forest? x
LikeLike
The mill looks pretty amazing there. It’s great you were able to show him off to such a cool place after he showed you around Iceland. I can see why you really loved the room.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s always nice to play host and show tourists a bit of the country that they previously may never have seen! x
LikeLike
woow what a charming place , i would love to spend a weekend in two there . By the way the drink looks absolutely delicious
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love Pimms, have you ever tried it Denni? It’s delicious x
LikeLike
What a beautiful hotel . I loved the interior of it . Best to have a luxury experience . I would love to stay in this hotel when I’m in England .
LikeLiked by 1 person
When are you next visiting England Kartika? You should definitely stay here 🙂 x
LikeLike
What a darling little rustic hotel, I mean I would never want to leave. I bet it’s amazing in the Autumn too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think you’re probably right Lindsey – I should head down there and see how it looks now in the autumn 🙂 x
LikeLike
You had me at locally-made shortbread. 😁 I haven’t been to this part of England yet but would love to visit. Might just have to put this spot on the list of places to stay. The bathroom is lovely as well!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Haha! I have to be honest, I didn’t try the shortbread, as I’m not a big biscuit muncher 🙂 but I’m sure it’s lovely! x
LikeLike
I absolutely love The New Forest! I’ve never stayed in a hotel there, having only ever camped, but this place seems so beautiful and charming. I love the sign above the bar saying “beauty is in the eye of the beer holder” haha. I might consider staying here next time I visit the region 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You should Lauren! x
LikeLike
So beautiful and that’s one of the reasons I always tell friends that the English countryside is so pretty and all worth a visit. Thanks for sharing, I’ll keep them in mind:)
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think that too, but then I may be a little biased 😉 x
LikeLike
Great review. It brings out both the simplicity and the completeness of the decor and theme of the Mill in the New Forest. It would be lovely to spend a weekend getaway here.
LikeLiked by 1 person
If you ever get the opportunity Carolina, I’d definitely recommend it x
LikeLike
Cosy, clean, beautifully designed. Perfect! And the location is just dreamy. A true gem! x
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s gorgeous isn’t it! x
LikeLike
Oh wow how pretty. I’d love to take Scott somewhere like this for a date night x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ahhh that would be so romantic 🙂 x
LikeLike
The cosy interiors complete with leather armchairs have an old-world appeal, which I love. I noticed so many little touches which make it seem like a home rather than a hotel. Delightful choice.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I know exactly what you mean – serious living room and bedroom inspo with this place x
LikeLiked by 1 person