New Forest Local Produce

The New Forest is full of delicious local produce waiting to be discovered. From farm shops and village bakeries to artisan makers and traditional producers, there are plenty of ways to enjoy food that has been grown, made or crafted locally. Choosing local produce helps support the farmers, growers and independent businesses that shape the New Forest landscape, while also reducing food miles and celebrating the flavours of the region. Across the New Forest you’ll find seasonal ingredients such as game, mushrooms, asparagus, strawberries and fresh seafood, alongside locally brewed drinks, cheeses and handmade treats.

Farm Shops, Bakeries and Local Makers

Many farm shops and food producers across the New Forest champion local ingredients and traditional methods.

Hockey’s Farm Shop, a family-run business near Ringwood, offers meat produced on their own farm alongside local fruit and vegetables, freshly baked bread and a carefully chosen selection of wines and beers.

In Lyndhurst, you’ll find artisan breads, pastries and cakes in independent cafés and bakeries, including Woods Bikes and Brews, where great coffee and freshly baked treats make the perfect stop after a ride or walk.

Sweet Treats and New Forest Specialities

If you have a sweet tooth, there are plenty of local favourites to take home.

Pick up handmade treats from Burley Fudge Shop, or try the buttery delights from New Forest Shortbread, lovingly made in Burley.

These small producers have become much-loved parts of the New Forest’s food scene.

Traditional Producers and Local Ingredients

The New Forest is also home to producers keeping traditional methods alive.

At Eling Tide Mill, which has been grinding flour for over 900 years, you can buy freshly milled flour and bread made from grain ground on site.

Local cheeses from Lyburn Farmhouse Cheesemakers and Loosehanger Cheeses, fresh milk from New Forest Raw Milk, and eggs, honey, jams and chutneys from farm shops and village stores all offer a real taste of the New Forest.

Hampers and Local Food Experiences

For a gift or a special treat to enjoy during your visit, local food hampers are a wonderful way to experience the flavours of the New Forest.

New Forest Hamper Company creates beautifully curated hampers filled with artisan food and drink sourced from independent producers across Hampshire and Dorset. From indulgent grazing hampers to thoughtful gifts packed with sweet and savoury treats, each hamper celebrates the region’s producers and makes a perfect present to take home or enjoy during your stay.

You’ll also find other local hamper makers across the New Forest, including The Forest Foodie, who work with farmers, bakers and cheesemakers to create generous picnic and celebration hampers.

Local Goods Oak

Locally Produced Drinks

The New Forest is home to a growing community of drink producers, from traditional cider makers to boutique vineyards and craft distilleries.

In Burley, New Forest Cider is a popular stop where you can sample unpasteurised cider straight from the barrel. They also produce refreshing New Forest apple juice, perfect if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option.

The New Forest is also home to exciting craft spirits. 820 Spirits Distillery produces small-batch gins and spirits inspired by the landscape and heritage of the New Forest, making them a great local gift or something special to enjoy during your visit.

Wine lovers can explore local vineyards too. Setley Ridge Vineyard, near Brockenhurst, produces wine from vines grown on site, while Brook Hill Vineyard, Coach House Vineyard, and Marlings Vineyard all produce wines within the wider New Forest area.

Look Out for the New Forest Marque

When shopping for food and drink, keep an eye out for the New Forest Marque.

This accreditation highlights produce that has been grown, reared, caught, brewed or produced within the New Forest. By choosing Marque products you’re supporting local farmers, growers and producers who help shape the landscape and food culture of the New Forest.

Farmers’ Markets in the New Forest

Farmers’ markets are a great place to meet producers and pick up local food directly from the source.

Regular markets take place in Ringwood, while the well-known Saturday market in Lymington features stalls selling fresh fish, local meats, cheeses and baked goods. You’ll also find markets throughout the year in Hythe and New Milton.

Keep an eye on our What's On listings for upcoming markets and food events.

Restaurants, Pubs and Cafés Using Local Produce

Many pubs, cafés and restaurants across the New Forest champion local ingredients on their menus.

Restaurants such as Lime Wood, The Pig, and Careys Manor showcase seasonal dishes using ingredients from local farms and producers. In cafés and tearooms you’ll often find homemade cakes and pastries, alongside locally made treats.

And if you’re visiting in warmer months, look out for New Forest Ice Cream, made in Lymington and sold at cafés and kiosks across the New Forest.