Pubs & Bars

New Forest pubs are a very special part of the area’s heritage, with a wealth of history, friendly landlords and some amazing ales, come along and experience them for yourself and make an unforgettable break here in the New Forest.

Some of our pubs are more than 500 years old and offer quirky features, some truly stunning countryside locations and not to mention beautiful beer gardens, perfect for a summer’s evening with a cooling drink!

In the winter you’ll find roaring log fires; in the summer, beautiful gardens to sit in and sip a cold beer or cider, or a New Forest white wine. We have pubs in towns, pubs on hills, pubs near the sea and by rivers and streams. So wherever you want to go and whatever you want to do, there is a New Forest pub for you! Where else in the UK do you get to have a drink looking out on groups of free-roaming ponies, donkeys or cattle?

Keeping it local

With some fantastic local ales (including those brewed at the Ringwood Brewery) you’ll find your favourite tipple, or perhaps even a new favourite served alongside some hearty dishes or tempting snacks. You can even try some New Forest-produced wine courtesy of Marlings Vineyard at Sway or Setley Ridge Vineyard at Brockenhurst. There is also the New Forest Cider made in Burley or perhaps try something made in one of the micro-breweries including the Vibrant Forest Brewery in Lymington or the micro-brewery at the Red Shoot Inn, near Ringwood. Look out for some of these drinks on sale in pubs in and around the New Forest.

Much of the food in our pubs is produced here in The New Forest. Keep an eye out for pubs displaying the New Forest Marque. The marque indicates produce which has been grown, reared, brewed, processed or produced here in the New Forest, helping to support our local community and economy. The Mill at Gordleton is one such pub. It has been awarded the New Forest Marque for its commitment to local food and the environment. Enjoy an à la carte menu in the restaurant overlooking the river or a lighter option in the Snug Bar.

Locally-sourced game and freshly caught fish are on the menu at The New Forest Inn in Lymington and the recently-refurbished Royal Oak near Beaulieu makes a great stop for people visiting the nearby national motor museum, for local walkers and even horse riders. Bring your own horse along, there are five horse corrals in the garden allowing you to make a perfect stop on your New Forest hack!

The Trusty Servant, is a pub in the centre of the village of Minstead. It offers home-cooked food, local real ales and a large garden. During the winter, warm up in front of one of the three roaring log fires, perfect for relaxing in front of after a winter’s stroll. The pub also runs regular events including live music evenings and beer festivals.

Family-friendly pubs

Many of our pubs welcome families and children, with delicious food and outdoor places to play and meals for smaller appetites. See how many ponies you can spot whilst dining here!

The Drift Inn, between Lyndhurst and Beaulieu is one such family-friendly pub. Not only does the pub offer a children’s menu but also has two outdoor play areas for children. Dogs, walkers and muddy boots are also very welcome here.

Situated within walking distance of Peppa Pig World at Paulton’s Park, The Mortimer Arms has a large beer garden perfect for families. Don’t forget to sample the New Forest ice cream here too, perfect for a warm day!

On the outskirts of New Milton, The Rising Sun pub has a large children’s play area, children’s menu, large garden decking area. For adults, there is a great choice of meals and snacks available and open log fires to keep you warm in the winter.

200 year old The Hare & Hounds, in Sway has not only an abundance of character but also a varied menu of freshly prepared dishes and quality cask ales. For the younger guests, there is a children’s play area and children’s menu.

The perfect place to stop after a walk

After walking the many trails of The New Forest, a stop at one of our pubs will often be very much appreciated. You’ll find pubs that are very walker friendly, offering you a place to warm up and relax after a busy day’s exploring.

Take a walk around Burley and make a stop at the Burley Inn. Serving food daily from 12noon and offering Sunday roasts, afternoon teas and morning coffees. This free house also serves locally produced fruit wines and has on-site accommodation.

Enjoy the Solent Way walk or a stroll around Lymington and head to The Mayflower pub. This pub prides itself on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. As with the Burley Inn, there is also accommodation on site here. Also in Lymington, is The Monkey House. This pub often has live music and is a free house which also offers home-cooked food.

Overlook the open heathland at The Fighting Cocks pub at Gorley, near Fordingbridge, an ideal place to stop for lunch or dinner after a walk in the local area. This pub also features in the North Taste Trail, 15 mile walk.

You can bring your dog too!

Lots of the pubs within The New Forest are dog-friendly so why not bring your four-legged friend out with you and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of one of our pubs?

The New Forest Inn, near Lyndhurst is an extremely dog-friendly pub. Dogs are welcome in the bar area, restaurant and large garden. There are even home-made dog treats on offer for a small charge.

Leave the car behind

Why not leave the car behind so you can enjoy a tipple? The New Forest Tour Bus is a great way to discover some of our beautiful towns and villages and local pubs. Alternatively, lots of our pubs and inns also offer accommodation so you can rest up after some well-earned food and a drink after a busy day exploring!

Save money on eating out

Save yourself some pounds by buying one of our Go New Forest cards in advance of your visit for just £10. Using the card you can save money on meals out, drinks, activities and many things to do in The New Forest.