Holiday Adventures in the New Forest

Holiday Adventures by Kathleen Lennon

There's no better recommendation than hearing directly from someone who has stayed with us. Kathleen kindly shared the story of her holiday at Our Bench, staying in Garden Bench. We've reproduced Kathleen's story exactly as she wrote it.

"This holiday to the New Forest was planned a few months ago, and let me tell you—when I plan something, I plan it properly!

Our accommodation, which I shared with Dominic, was called Garden Bench. Even the name sounds relaxing, doesn’t it? Days in advance, we were supported to pack our suitcases… and you know me—I always need new clothes for a holiday. So yes… there was shopping, there were plans, and there was excitement!

We left around 2pm on 19th June, because check-in wasn’t until after 3pm. Now, the journey… oh my goodness… it was much longer than expected. It seems like the whole England had the same idea—to escape the heatwave and run off to the seaside or the forest! Add roadworks into the mix and you’ve got a proper adventure before the holiday even starts.

We finally arrived at 6pm, tired but happy. We were welcomed by the owner, a lovely lady called Helen—and guess what? She had baked us a cake. A real, proper cake!

After some drinks, Claudia and I went to do a bit of food shopping, we had a late dinner, and then—straight to bed. No messing!

And the accommodation? Absolutely brilliant. Fully adapted for us, very comfortable, and with a beautiful garden. At night, it was lit with little solar candles—so pretty and a bit magical. Honestly, it was like stepping into a fairy tale…

Day 1 – Shopping Queen Mode Activated

On the first day, I decided to visit West Quay Shopping Centre in Southampton, which is one of the biggest in Europe. And yes… I did a bit of damage (in a good way). I found a lovely light blue linen dress, some stylish sunglasses, and a couple of other treats. Well, it is a holiday! I also walked around part of the town, had some delicious éclairs (very important), and enjoyed a drink before heading back to Garden Bench. A perfect first day—shopping, sweets, and sunshine.

Day 2 – From Shopping to History in One Day!

The second day was all about history and beauty. I visited Salisbury Cathedral, which has the tallest church spire in the UK (and famously one of the tallest in Europe). It was stunning—so big, so peaceful, and full of stories.

The best part? I got to see the Magna Carta. I even had it explained to me why it’s so important—it’s all about rights and fairness from a long, long time ago. I felt quite clever standing there, taking it all in!

Day 3 – Ice Cream and Sea Breeze

Day three was more relaxed. I had a lovely walk at Milford-on-Sea Marina, with—of course—an ice cream. You simply cannot go to the seaside without one. It’s the law (my law, anyway).

Later, we had dinner in Lymington, which is such a cute little town. Boats, pretty shops, and a nice atmosphere—just my kind of place.

Day 4 – Treating Myself (Again!)

On the 23rd, I went back to Southampton. Why? Because I deserved another treat, obviously! This time I got myself a beautiful Pandora ring—so lovely, sparkly, and very me. Then we went to Nando’s, which is one of my favourites. Chicken, chips, and happiness—perfect combination.

Day 5 – Cars, Castles, and a Bit of Royal Feeling

Next day I visited the amazing Beaulieu Motor Museum and Beaulieu Palace. Let me tell you, this place is big! The motor museum had everything—from old vintage cars to famous vehicles from films (yes, I was very impressed). Then there was the Palace, which felt very fancy. Walking through it, I felt like I had gone back in time. Beautiful rooms, big gardens, and that “wow” feeling everywhere. I half expected someone to call me “Lady Kathleen”… but maybe next time.

Final Day – Castles and the Sea (Again!)

On the last day, despite the heat, I visited Highcliffe Castle. It’s right by the coast and looks absolutely stunning—like something from a storybook. Inside, it had history, style, and a real sense of the past.

I even bought a perfume called Inis, which is said to be inspired by the scent a lady of the castle wore 200 years ago. So basically, I now smell historic. Very classy!

After that, we drove to Bournemouth, where we had a lovely walk to the pier. And of course—there had to be a drink and an ice cream (don’t judge me!). We sat in a Café overlooking the sea, and honestly… it was the perfect ending to the holiday.

Final Thoughts

This New Forest holiday had everything—shopping, history, nature, good food, and a bit of sparkle (literally, thanks to my ring). And one of the best parts—I saw so many wild horses with their little foals, cows, and donkeys, all so beautiful just walking around free. Because of the big heat, some were even having a little bath in the lakes—honestly, what a life! It was magical and made the holiday even more special.

There were laughs, little adventures, and some “oops, wrong turn” moments too—mostly because of the big heat, not anyone’s fault—but that’s what made it special.

Would I go again?

Absolutely. But next time… I might need a bigger suitcase.""

The cottage had everything we needed: profiling beds, a ceiling hoist, fantastic wet room with everything we needed and extra equipment offered if we needed it, a full kitchen (and as we were there for an extended stay this was essential as my daughter is on full blended diet via G Tube). We had access to a laundry (washer-dryer), airing rack, great proximity to a local store and lovely walking areas close by.

We will definitely be back!

Lifeways is the UK's largest supported living specialist, they are proud to support more than 4,000 people to lead more fulfilling, independent lives and employing over 9,000 people, and we are delghted that they choose our holiday cottages as a destination for some of their residents.