Last weekend, we packed up the car (plus half the house, as you do with a toddler!) and headed down to the south coast for a mini family break at Hoburne Naish. I honestly didn’t expect just how much Isobel—our curious, always-on-the-move three-year-old—would fall in love with the place. But from the moment we arrived, it felt like we’d found a true hidden gem for families.
First Impressions & The Deluxe Lodge
We stayed in one of Hoburne Naish’s Deluxe Lodges, and it completely exceeded our expectations. It was clean, modern, and surprisingly spacious—plenty of room for Isobel to explore without us constantly saying “careful!” We had a fully equipped kitchen, comfy beds, a cozy lounge for movie nights, and even a washer (which came in handy more than once). The private decking was a lovely bonus for morning coffees or post-nap snacks in the sun.
The Park – So Much To Do!One of the biggest surprises was just how much there was to do on-site—and all of it toddler-friendly.
Private Beach Access
The park has direct private access to the beach, which felt like such a luxury. A scenic coastal path took us down to the cliffs and sea—it was peaceful, safe, and perfect for collecting pebbles, dipping toes, and just unwinding. We managed a sunset walk one evening that felt straight out of a postcard.
Indoor Pool Complex
Isobel could’ve happily lived in the splash zone. It’s warm, shallow, and filled with mini fountains and gentle jets perfect for toddlers. We took turns between the little area and the bigger pool.
Soft Play Heaven
Inside the complex, there’s a soft play area especially for under 5s—a total lifesaver on chillier afternoons or when we needed a break from running around. It’s secure, clean, and padded wall-to-wall so we could sit with a coffee while Isobel burned off her biscuit energy.
Outdoor Adventure Playground
Huge hit. It’s a fantastic space with a variety of equipment and slides, including a toddler-friendly zone so she could climb and explore safely. We ended up here almost every morning before breakfast and again in the evenings before dinner.
Arcade & Games Room
We didn’t expect her to enjoy the arcade, but oh she did! While she’s still too little for most games, she loved pretending to drive in the car machines and hitting buttons like a pro. There are also some easy-to-play games suitable for younger ones, so we made it a little treat stop after dinner.
Sammy Seahorse & Entertainment Club
The Sammy squad evening entertainment was such a sweet surprise—dancing, singing, games, and of course, meeting the characters . Isobel was enchanted. The evening family entertainment was perfect too—early enough for toddlers, and full of music and laughter. A lovely way to wrap up the day.
The Restaurant & On-Site Eats
We ate a few meals at the Hoburne restaurant, and it was a lovely experience each time. Big tick for highchairs, kids’ menus, and speedy service (because no one wants to wait long with a hungry toddler!). There’s also a café and a convenience shop on-site—so if you forget the snacks or run out of nappies, you’re sorted.
Local Adventures We Loved
As if the park itself wasn’t enough, there’s loads to explore nearby:
Christchurch Quay
Just 15 minutes away—perfect for a relaxed morning. We fed the ducks, watched boats drift past, and played in the lovely splash park and playground. There’s also a little café and plenty of green space for a picnic.
Lyndhurst – Heart of the New Forest
Roaming ponies, ice cream shops, and buggy-friendly woodland trails—need I say more? This was one of my favourite days. It’s such a sweet village with that storybook charm, and Isobel loved spotting animals in the wild.
Highcliffe Beach
A beautiful stretch of coast just minutes from the park. We spent a sunny afternoon building sandcastles and paddling—simple, classic fun.
Moors Valley Country Park
About 30 minutes away but worth the drive. It has a steam train, walking trails, wooden play sculptures in the forest, and a lovely café. One of those places that makes you want to stay all day.
Final Thoughts
Our stay at Hoburne Naish was genuinely everything we needed. The deluxe lodge had all the comfort and convenience of home, while the facilities, beach access, and entertainment made it feel like a proper holiday. From soft play and splash zones to beach walks and day trips, there was always something to do—without the need for planning or stress.
Isobel absolutely thrived—she laughed more, played harder, and made little memories that we’ll talk about for weeks (especially anything involving Coral the mermaid!).
We’re already planning our next stay—and if you’re looking for a UK holiday that’s easy, fun, and totally toddler-proof, Hoburne Naish is your spot.
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