Our Bench - New Forest Accessible Accommodation

Our Bench - Garden Bench - Wheelchair accessible Accommodation for five with ceiling hoist and large quiet garden

Garden Bench

Wheelchair Accessible Accommodation for Five with Level Access Throughout & Large Quiet Garden

Garden Bench is a fully accessible detached self-catering cottage on the outskirts of Lymington, surrounded by the New Forest National Park. This 1920's style bungalow has been completely renovated to offer purpose-built self-catering accommodation with ground floor access throughout. The cottage features its own private drive and a large secure rear garden with a spacious paved patio area.

It is the ideal location for a quiet and relaxing holiday. Being fully detached, you can enjoy a BBQ on the patio in the sunshine without worrying about being overlooked, or curl up in the lounge and unwind with a flat-screen television, free wifi, and the comforting flicker of the wood-burning stove

Sleeps Up to 5 Guests Garden Bench is the perfect base for exploring the New Forest, Hampshire, and Dorset. Fantastic day trips include Paultons Park, Longleat, Marwell Zoo, Longdown Activity Farm, Beaulieu, Furzey Gardens, and Portsmouth. There is a wide variety of places and experiences to enjoy, all accessible for people with additional needs. Our website and social media pages provide suggestions for preplanned accessible holiday ideas.

Facilities At a glance

Master Bedroom: A large, light, and airy room with a ceiling hoist, height-adjustable profiling bed, and additional profiling bed with wheelchair turning space.
Wheelchair-Friendly Wet Room: Adjacent to the master bedroom with a choice of shower chairs and stools, grab rails, and an adjustable sink.
Second Bedroom: Wheelchair accessible with two electric head and foot riser beds (twin as standard, convertible to a king on request) and a standard single bed – sleeps 3.
Central Heating and Free Wifi: Included as standard.
Private Garden: With a swing nest, outside lighting, and BBQ.
Open Plan Lounge, Kitchen, and Dining Area: Features a wood-burning stove.
Small Conservatory: Overlooking the garden.
Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved dogs are welcome (extra charge applies).
Off-Road Parking: With block paving to the door and an EV charger available.
Access Statement: Available here,, layout plan and 360° tour below (scroll down).

Garden Bench - ideal Accessible Accommodation in the New Forest

Garden Bench is fully detached with a large private garden and off-road parking, making it ideal for a quiet location. The master bedroom features a height-adjustable profiling/carer's bed with removable rails and a second bed with head and foot risers, both accessible via the ceiling hoist (maximum weight capacity of 21 stone / 133 kilos).

The second bedroom is wheelchair accessible, making it ideal for families. Beds can be accessed via a mobile hoist if preferred, offering versatile accommodation. This room can be arranged as three single beds or a king-size double.

Additional Features

Accessible Wet Room: Wheel-in shower area, adjustable height washbasin, standard height WC with drop-down grab rails, and optional toilet seat riser. A variety of wheeled shower chairs, commodes, or stools are available.
Modern Kitchen: Wheelchair accessible with facilities including a washing machine, oven, microwave, coffee machine, and a foldaway dining area with seating.
Open Plan Lounge: Electric riser recliner chair, two comfortable 2-seater sofas, wood burner, and a supply of wood in the garage.
Entertainment: Colour television with Chromecast and Netflix in the lounge and a second large television in the master bedroom.
Quiet Garden: Large patio area with garden table and seating for 6, BBQ, and a hidden corner with a nest chair for relaxation.
Wheelchair-Friendly Design: Plenty of turning space and level access from the private driveway (parking for one car) to your door.
Pet-Friendly Accommodation: Garden Bench is pet-friendly and welcomes well-behaved dogs for an additional charge. Your furry friends can enjoy the large secure garden and explore the beautiful surroundings of the New Forest.
Additional Equipment: Available upon request, such as a Sara Stedy, standing hoist, rota stand, and choice of shower chairs - you can view our additional equipment here. We also have contacts for oxygen, specialist mattresses, carers, and local taxi services along with home to holiday transfers.

Booking and Availability:

Accommodation Preparation: The cottage is made up and ready for your arrival with fresh linen and clean towels. You are welcome to have shopping delivered before you arrive.
Online Booking: Book Online to see our latest availability. Available dates are shown in green.

Experience the tranquility and accessibility of Garden Bench. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled holiday in the New Forest, Garden Bench offers the perfect setting for a memorable stay.

Garden Bench photo gallery

Garden Bench New Forest Accessible Self Catering Accommodation

Detailed Features of Garden Bench

Garden Bench is a self-catering accommodation comprising an open-plan kitchen, lounge, dining area, small conservatory, large wet room, and two bedrooms. All facilities are on the ground floor in this purposely altered detached bungalow.

Sleeps Up to Five People in Two Bedrooms:

Fully Equipped Kitchen: Split-level work surfaces, electric oven, gas hob, microwave, fridge with small freezer, dishwasher, and washing machine. All kitchen utensils, cutlery, and china are supplied to ensure a pleasant, relaxing, and enjoyable stay.
Dining Area: Gate-legged dining table and four chairs (additional chairs in the conservatory). The table is stored folded down to maximize space as many guests enjoy dining al fresco on the patio.
Small Conservatory: Seating for two people, ideal for morning coffee while watching birds or children playing outside.

Lounge and Bedrooms

Lounge: Comfortable seating, including an electric riser/recliner chair and two two-seater leather-style sofas, wood-burning stove, and digital television with Chromecast for streaming Netflix, Amazon, or YouTube. A selection of books and leaflets on the New Forest helps plan your holiday. Free Wifi is available.
Master Bedroom: Electric profiling/carer's bed with foot and head risers, fully height adjustable with bed guards, and a second single electric foot and head riser bed. Ceiling hoist access over both beds. Wall-mounted color television with remote and inbuilt DVD. Furnished with chest of drawers, bedside units, and alarm clock.
Second Bedroom: Triple bedded room with two electric foot and head riser beds (independent, can be made up as king or twin), and a standard single bed. Wardrobe, chest of drawers, bedside cabinets, and alarm clock. Accommodates a baby in a travel cot if required. All beds made up with fresh linen, duvets, and pillows before arrival.

Accessible Wet Room

Modern Fully Accessible Wet Room: Large shower area with grab rail, adjustable washbasin for comfort, standard height toilet with drop-down rails and lateral transfer space. Raised toilet seat available if needed.

Outdoor Area

Lovely Level Patio: Table and chairs in the secure private garden, mainly laid to lawn.
Garage: Contains a tumble dryer and space with a charging point for scooters or wheelchairs. Small supply of wood for the fire.
Off-Road Parking: Driveway with easy level access to the front door and garden.

Pet-Friendly Accommodation: Garden Bench accepts dogs, subject to an additional charge of £100 for up to two dogs and the completion of a pets booking form. Dogs are not allowed on furniture, and guests must clean up after their pets. Additional charges enable intensive cleaning before the next guest's arrival.

Inclusive Amenities

All bed-linen, towels, tea towels, gas central heating, hot water, and Wifi are included in the tariff.

Booking Information

Book Direct for the Best Prices and Availability:

Peak Season: Friday to Friday bookings.
Weekends and Short Breaks: Friday to Monday and Monday to Friday subject to availability. Book online (add any specialist requirements in the comments box) with card payment,BACS and cheque payments and instant confirmation. Underlined dates indicate available start dates.
Rate Card: Viewable rate card (opens in a new window). Seven-night bookings (Friday to Friday) are always the best value when weekends and mid-week holidays are available.
Please ensure you have read our terms and conditions. Booking with us implies agreement to these conditions.
Bench Cottage Access Statement is available online - with measurements of doorways, hoists, weight specifications etc.

Plan of Garden Bench

We understand some guests prefer to see the accommodation in advance. While plans are not to scale and furniture arrangements may vary, these provide an idea of the layout and space available.

Carbon Neutral Holiday Cottage

The electricity used in Little Bench comes from 100% renewable sources and the carbon from the gas used for heating and cooking is completely offset, helping to ensure that we protect our local environment for years to come. We encourage guests to recycle their waste - with glass, tins, cardboard, plastic, paper recycling, composting facilities, and with general race being incinerated to create electricity in the county. With the bus stopping outside the door, you can choose to reduce your vehicle emissions too!

For your convenience we have added a charging points for your EV – on the Voltshare network – you will need their app (https://voltshare.net), a smart phone and your type 2 charging lead. Instructions for use are provided on the chargers and is managed by Voltshare for us.

Discover Lymington and the New Forest

Lymington is a charming town offering a variety of restaurants, pubs, takeaways, and shops, including both local and national stores. Uncover the hidden park behind the shops or visit the bustling market held every Saturday from 8 am to 4 pm, where you can find everything you need for a perfect holiday. These attractions are all within a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from your cottage, with detailed directions available.

Explore the New Forest and South Coast

The New Forest and south coast of England boast a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse activities, making this area a must-visit destination. The New Forest National Park, with its ancient woodlands, heathlands, and free-roaming ponies, provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore picturesque villages, enjoy scenic walks, and participate in various recreational activities such as cycling, horse riding, and wildlife spotting.

The south coast is renowned for its stunning coastal views, charming seaside towns, and vibrant cultural attractions. From the historic maritime heritage of Portsmouth to the sandy beaches of Bournemouth, there is something for everyone. The region offers a plethora of dining options, ranging from quaint pubs to fine dining, making it an ideal location for a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday.

For more detailed information and suggestions on places to visit, explore the local area further and check out our recommendations for Lymington, the New Forest, and various Day Trips.