There’s something timeless about the pairing of a scenic New Forest walk and a visit to a country pub. With over 140 miles of footpaths, wide open heathland, ancient woodland, and countless friendly places to stop and refuel, it’s no wonder pub walks are one of the best ways to enjoy the New Forest all year round.
Whether you’re craving a hearty roast, a sunny pint in a pub garden or a shorter stroll with a local tipple and snack waiting at the end at a typical country pub - here are 10 of the top pub walks in the New Forest to inspire your next outing.
1. The White Hart, Lymington
Start or finish a beautiful coastal walk from Lymington’s town centre with a visit to The White Hart. With its large beer garden, delicious seasonal menus, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this recently refurbished pub is the perfect place to relax after a wander along the Lymington to Keyhaven Nature Reserve or a loop via the historic quay and marina in Lymington.
Top tip: Try a circular route that includes the Solent Way - ideal for wildlife watchers and sea views.
2. The Waterloo Arms, Lyndhurst
This classic pub is just a short walk from the heart of Lyndhurst and makes a great base for exploring some of the most scenic parts of the New Forest. Pick up one of the walking routes including the popular Lyndhurst Parish Walk, and reward your efforts with a stop at The Waterloo Arms for a local ale or hearty meal.
Top tip: Combine with a visit to the New Forest Heritage Centre for a full day out.
3. The Trusty Servant, Minstead
Walk through Minstead’s tranquil woodland trails, and visit the charming village green where you’ll find The Trusty Servant on the beautiful Minstead Village Walk trail. This family-friendly pub is a favourite with locals and visitors alike, serving up generous portions and a wide drinks menu.
Top tip: Look out for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s grave nearby at All Saints Church.
4. The Fighting Cocks, Godshill
Explore the scenic paths around Godshill and the surrounding commons before arriving at this rustic country pub on the Frankenbury Hill Fort route. The Fighting Cocks is a favourite for walkers, cyclists and families, with a great outdoor play area and ample space to unwind.
Top tip: Combine your visit with a detour to nearby Ashley Walk.
5. The Filly Inn, near Brockenhurst
Just a stone’s throw from the village of Brockenhurst, The Filly Inn makes a brilliant base for a circular pub walk. Follow the Bucklands Ring Trail, passing the pub, or wander through nearby Setley Plain. With a warm welcome, delicious food, and a spacious garden, it’s a favourite with walkers and cyclists alike.
Top tip: Plan your walk to catch golden hour - the low light across the open heath makes for stunning photos.
6. The Royal Oak, Hilltop (near Beaulieu)
Surrounded by open heath, The Royal Oak at Hilltop is a real forest gem. This cosy pub is just a short distance from beautiful walking routes around Beaulieu and East Boldre. Whether you're enjoying a short afternoon stroll or a longer walk from Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard, it’s an ideal place to stop for a well-earned drink or meal.
Top tip: This area is a quiet haven for wildlife - keep your eyes peeled for deer, ponies, and birdlife on your way and keep your distance from all animals and don’t feed them.
7. The New Forest Inn, Emery Down
Tucked away just outside Lyndhurst, The New Forest Inn offers a traditional pub atmosphere and hearty comfort food. Walk through Emery Down or venture further into Lyndhurst on the Lyndhurst Parish Walk, or to the surrounding forest – it’s beautiful in every season.
Top tip: This area is fantastic for spotting free-roaming ponies and donkeys wandering the country lanes – do not touch the animals and drive carefully.
8. Walhampton Arms, near Lymington
With its grand building and generous garden, the Walhampton Arms is a striking spot to relax after a walk. Follow the trails through nearby Norleywood or head towards Boldre and enjoy a mix of open forest, ancient trees and hidden tracks. Note, you’ll have to hop in your car and drive to the pub from Norleywood or Boldre.
Top tip: Combine a visit to Walhampton Arms with a trip into nearby Lymington.
9. The Mortimer Arms, near Cadnam
Located at the gateway to New Forest from Southampton, The Mortimer Arms is ideal for walkers heading into the forest from Canada Common. It offers a lovely mix of classic and modern dishes, with plenty of space to unwind. Note, you’ll have to hop in your car and drive to the pub from Canada Common.
Top tip: Time your visit for sunset across Canada Common - it’s magical.
10. The Commoner’s Bar, Brockenhurst
This stylish bar in the heart of Brockenhurst is perfect for a relaxed drink after a walk at Whitefield Moor or Horseshoe Bottom. Or, check out the Brockenhurst Village Walk. With a contemporary vibe and focus on local ingredients, it’s a great choice for something a little different.
Top tip: Try combining your walk with a visit to Brockenhurst’s local shops.
Plan your own pub walk
With so many wonderful walking routes and pubs to choose from, you can easily create your own perfect pub walk using our Pub Walks Maps. Whether it’s a short morning stroll or an all-day ramble, there’s a route (and a pint) waiting for you in the New Forest.
New Forest Walks have a great selection of routes that start, pass or finish near pubs and restaurants so you can sample the best of New Forest hospitality. Every self-guided walk also has a full list of food and drink outlets so you can refuel after your walk.
