Breweries, Distilleries & Vineyards in the New Forest
There’s something deeply satisfying about enjoying a drink crafted just a few miles from where you’re standing. Across the New Forest, you’ll find small-scale breweries, artisan distilleries, traditional cider makers, and even award-winning vineyards - all rooted in the landscape and driven by passion for local produce. After a day of exploring on foot, bike, or horseback, there’s no better way to wind down than by sampling the flavours of the Forest.
Distilleries
From forest-foraged botanicals to small-batch spirits, the New Forest’s distilleries capture the landscape’s unique character in every bottle.
820 Spirits – Lymington
A modern micro-distillery in the heart of Lymington, 820 Spirits handcrafts small-batch gin and vodka using locally inspired botanicals. With a stylish tasting room and distillery shop, it’s the perfect place to sample, sip, and learn more about the art of distilling. Look out for special events and tastings throughout the year.
Breweries
The New Forest is home to a growing number of independent and microbreweries, each with its own unique character and style.
Vibrant Forest Brewery – Hardley
Tucked on the edge of the National Park, this small but bold microbrewery creates vegan-friendly beers full of flavour. Stop by to sample brews like Summerlands and Black Forest, or explore their ever-changing seasonal range. Brewery tours are available by pre-booking, and you may even meet the brewer during your visit.
Downton Brewery & Hopback Brewery
Just outside the Forest, Downton Brewery produces award-winning real ales like Quadhop, New Forest Ale, and Honey Blonde. Visitors are welcome Monday to Friday, 8am–4.30pm. Also in Downton, Hopback Brewery has been crafting well-loved ales since 1987, including the multi-award-winning Summer Lightning.
Pig Beer – Brockenhurst
A newer addition to the local scene, Pig Beer is brewed on a family-run smallholding just outside Brockenhurst. It’s a celebration of small-batch brewing and the Forest’s independent spirit.
Red Shoot Inn & Brewery – Linwood
Right in the heart of the National Park, the Red Shoot brews three signature ales onsite: New Forest Gold, Tom Tipple, and Muddy Boot, all available to sample in the pub alongside Wadworth classics. There’s even camping on-site, so you can relax with a pint and stay the night.
Vineyards & Cider
The New Forest’s climate and soil create ideal conditions for apple orchards and even vineyards - producing cider and wine with a true sense of place.
New Forest Cider – Burley
Crafted using traditional methods and English apples from the site’s own orchards, New Forest Cider is a must-visit for lovers of real cider. Sample unpasteurised cider straight from the barrel and don’t miss the annual steam pressing weekend for a step back in time.
Dickie’s Dribble Cider - Bransgore
Lovingly made in the village of Bransgore, Dickie’s Dribble is a small-batch, traditional cider that captures the true spirit of the New Forest. Using locally sourced apples and no added nonsense, it’s full of flavour and character - just like the place it’s made.
Setley Ridge Vineyard – Brockenhurst
This small vineyard produces red, white, and rosé wines. Visit the farm shop to sample what’s in season or join a vineyard tour for a deeper look into the winemaking process.
Marlings Vineyard – Near Sway
Although not open to the public, wines from this award-winning vineyard are stocked locally at Priory Wines (Lymington), New Forest Wines (Ringwood), and at Careys Manor Hotel.
Brook Hill Vineyard – Bramshaw
Producing both still and sparkling varieties, Brook Hill is another example of the Forest’s growing reputation for quality English wine.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Enjoying the New Forest’s local drinks is even better with a New Forest Card, which offers discounts on attractions, food and drink, accommodation, and even bike hire. A perfect way to support local and save while you explore.
