Blackwood Forest

We stayed four nights in a Golden Oak Hideaway in July 2026 for 4 nights at just over £1,000. The forest itself is lovely. The cabin and the service were not what we paid for. On arrival we were told the power and water would both be cut from 9am to 4pm on one of our four days. We had no notice of this before we traveled, so no chance to plan around it. The Forest Retreat was closed for that period too. The cabin had not been reset between guests. The previous guests' departure message was still sitting on the TV screen, timestamped the afternoon before we arrived. Behind the TV was thick with dust and debris. The living room furniture was materially different from the photos on the listing for this specific cabin. There were no basics in the cabin, no salt, pepper or sugar, and only two coffee capsules, so we bought our own. The TV froze during a match we had asked staff in advance to make sure was working. Archery, listed on the on-site activities sheet and something we had planned our week around, turned out not to be running. I raised all of this in writing. Two emails to their customer service addresses went unanswered entirely. The location deserves better than this standard of operation. (For the record - i finally got through to customer service and they refunded me £400)

· via Google

We recently stayed with Forest Holidays and overall had a really lovely experience. From the moment we arrived, the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, which set a great tone for the whole trip. The location itself was beautiful and peaceful, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. The food was excellent—fresh, tasty, and with a good variety of options. Our accommodation was also very comfortable and well-equipped, providing everything we needed for a cosy and enjoyable stay. The only downside was that the cleanliness of the accommodation on arrival wasn’t quite up to the standard we expected. It didn’t ruin our stay, but it’s an area that could definitely be improved. That said, we had a wonderful time overall and would happily return in the future.

· via Google

Just arrived back from a delightful relaxing four day breakaway in Blackwood Forest. My whole experience was amazing, Very warm, welcome celebrating my birthday on arrival. Great Location. The staff were outstanding. I would definitely recommend a stay there for a relaxing breakaway with family or friends. The staff were very friendly, accommodating and can do more to help you. . Overall, A great experience . Would highly recommend.

· via Google

From the moment we arrived to check in, the staff were naturally so friendly and engaging. They instantly went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. The cabin was so homely. The location is beautiful and the rooms/living space was perfect for our needs. The hot tub was lovely and warm, and is checked daily by staff, who come by discreetly so not to disturb you. Despite interacting with the other guests at reception, on walking trails or in the playground, it didnt feel too overcrowded, and once at your cabin you really feel the privacy and seclusion to relax. Blackwood Forest is also a great location to visit Basingstokes leisure activies (lagoon flume pool/ice skating/iFly/Hollywood bowl) which are 20min drive away. Also, the local Chinese (The Orient) also kindly deliver straight to your cabin door! We're already looking to make another booking here, and can't wait to explore their other locations too!

· via Google