This Summer, we took the opportunity to road-test a motorbike designed to tackle the harshest terrain on earth. But, rather than hopping aboard a plane headed straight for the most unforgiving Asian or South American climes and mountain paths, we opted instead to take advantage of the sacred land in the South of England.
Declared and reserved by William the Conqueror in 1079 to be his ‘new hunting ground’, and recognised by us today as the greatest backyard in which to play with the ultimate two-wheeled toy — we headed for the New Forest. You can read the full story in the September/October issue of Gentleman’s Journal and watch the video below.
Naturally, when it came to sending two of Britain’s leading off-road motocross trail riders to put Royal Enfield’s new Himalayan through its paces, we were sure to offer them the signature GJ hospitality to oil the wheels.
The pitstop: Hartnett Holder & Co. at The Limewood Hotel
In-keeping with the theme of a journey that wound through some of Britain’s most beautiful surroundings, we were sure to refuel our riders at one of the finest restaurants to be found on British soil. The destination: Hartnett Holder & Co. at the Limewood Hotel in Lyndhurst.
In this relaxed, stylish restaurant, our group took some well-earned rest and enjoyed the delicacies of a menu curated by internationally renowned chefs Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder — each famed for their respect for and enjoyment of local produce.
With an ever-changing menu that nods to the seasons, our troupe enjoyed the finest summertime fare in the glorious surroundings of the Hampshire countryside.
The stay: The Montagu Arms Hotel
There’s nowhere quite like home after a long day on (or off) the road. Except, perhaps the Montagu Arms Hotel. Nestled in a private corner of Hampshire, and offering the quintessential English country house experience — this opulent hotel offered our company a well-deserved chance to enjoy supper in the award-winning Terrace restaurant, where head chef Matthew Tomlinson declares the New Forest to be his larder.
With sink-in furnishings and beautiful suites, there was no better way to round off our Himalayan adventure than at this New Forest bolthole.
It was an aptly English place to end our trip, a journey enjoyed in excellent company and on excellent machines.
Read the full story in the Sept/Oct issue of Gentleman’s Journal. Subscribe here…
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