Completion and launch of the £1.7 million refurbishment of Burley Manor in the New Forest National Park on 7 December means that this treasured Grade II listed building will be open just in time for magical three-night Christmas breaks.

Dating back to 1852 and set against a stunning natural backdrop, this beautiful old manor house has seen many Christmases, witnessed changing scenes through the generations, new hosts, warmth and laughter. This Christmas will be unique, a new page in the story of its history.

“A New Forest Christmas is like no other,” says Managing Director Michaela Lisle. “Time stops still with a hush in the forest. Perhaps it's the influence of the ancient woodlands, country traditions which have passed through centuries, winding paths through frosty, bare branches, or the vast brooding moors and big skies which merge into sea.” 

Guests can wake to stunning winter views across rolling downland and spot native red deer. Share gifts and take in the tranquillity with a forest winter walk. This is a grown-ups only Christmas, a celebration of the season, an escape.

Burley Manor's restaurant will be unique. Relaxed and warm, renowned for featuring the rustic, vibrant dishes of the Mediterranean – simple, superb, seasonal ingredients crafted by the award-winning chefs into dishes which allow the produce to sing. 

Dining will be a big focus of the three-night break; there'll be a three-course dinner on Christmas eve, six courses on Boxing Day – with canapés, tapas, sharing platters, cakes and breakfasts in between – not to mention a beautiful feast for the main event.

On Christmas day, starters such as tiger prawn cooked in spices, prosciutto di parma, cured smoked salmon roulade; or confit duck leg with spiced chorizo and lentilsare followed by dishes which feature some of the best produce from the British Isles. Wood roasted porchetta loin of Gloucestershire old spot pork with sage and tarragon sweet potato and orange; as well as a tasteful nod to our traditional festive flavours – wood roasted crown of Bronze turkey, stuffed leg with chestnut and apricot chipolatas.

An array of the very best artisan regional cheeses, grapes, quince, poached fig and set honey served with fine biscuits are the debut for indulgent desserts such as dark Italian chocolate torte with white chocolate ice cream, or traditional Christmas pudding with brandy butter and redcurrants.

Investment in the latest wine technology means that Burley Manor can offer one third of a bottle carafes across their wine list, pairing the perfect wine with each dish. The scene is set to sample a selection of fine wines with dinner from the expert sommelier. 

Relaxed, three-night Christmas forest breaks start from £720 per person, in one of Burley Manor's cosy snug rooms. Take advantage of this deal by booking before the end of October; it includes an introductory 20% off.

For more information see www.burleymanor.com or call 01425 403522. Reservations can be made on 0800 44 44 41.

Ends

Notes to editors: For more detailed information, take a look at the Burley Manor Christmas blog post

Issued by: Louise Neville, Polymedia, 01329 822866

louiseneville@polymediapr.co.uk

For further information, contact: Michaela Lisle, Burley Manor, 023 8028 3717.

For further information or high resolution versions of the pictures below please contact Polymedia, nfh@polymediapr.co.uk