Free-roaming ponies and donkeys wander past the garden gates of this Arts and Crafts-style single-storey house in the magical surroundings of the New Forest. Owners Cheryl and Ciaran Maher have turned the family home into a boutique B&B, equipping all rooms (two in the converted gardener's cottage) with an espresso machine, mini-fridge, Roberts radio and Bramley toiletries. For longer stays, choose, say, the Courtyard Suite, with its Spanish-style courtyard, the Brightiff Suite, overlooking the front garden. Perhaps best is the Marryat Suite (after Captain Frederick Marryat, author of The Children of the New Forest), with a private entrance, patio area, barbecue and heater. A reader reported that 'the bed was very comfortable, the breakfast was excellent, as was the service.' Place your order in a flowerpot outside your door at night. Choices include a full English or Irish, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on sourdough with micro greens, and local free-range eggs boiled with soldiers. There are gluten-free and vegan options too. For dinner, Brockenhurst, with its pubs and restaurants, is just 15 minutes' walk away. Or ride your own bike there – you can store it back at the B&B.