The pubs in the New Forest are a very special part of our area’s heritage, with a wealth of history (some dating back more than 500 years), quirky features, friendly landlords and some amazing local cider, wine and ales.
Think beer gardens, perfect for a summer’s evening, to cosy fireplaces for warming up in front of during the colder months, with a warming drink and an unmissable roast dinner. Come along and experience our New Forest pubs for yourself and make an unforgettable break here. 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.
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.
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 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.
Head out on our Lyndhurst Parish Walk and explore the capital of the New Forest on foot. Stop off mid-way for some delicious food and refreshing drink at The Waterloo Arms. Whether you fancy a light snack or a good old pub favourite, The Waterloo have something for everyone! They are open & food is served daily from 12noon and all throughout the day until late.
Brockenhurst is the hub of fantastic walking routes. In Brockenhurst you'll also find the wonderful Commoners Wine Bar, serving a menu full of delicious options including a selection of small plates and grazing boards to share with friends and family, plus burgers, fish and chips, noodles, nachos and more. As well as an extensive wine list, local beers, ciders and spirits and a tempting cocktail menu!
With a pathway directly off of Canada Common, The Rockingham Arms is the perfect place to enjoy a drink and something to eat before or after a walk in the forest. It's also a fantastic place to get together with friends and family, or for that initmate date night. Built in 1840, The Rockingham Arms is a cosy, beautifully decorated and welcoming pub full of character, serving deliciously home-cooked food, great wines, real ales and loads of other refreshing drinks.
Take a walk around Burley and make a stop at the Burley Inn. They offer amazing Sunday roasts, afternoon teas and morning coffees. This free house also serves locally produced fruit wines and has on-site accommodation.
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!
Situated within walking distance of the popular 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.
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?
With the pub dating back to the 1880's, Walhampton Arms not only has an abundance of character but also a varied menu of freshly prepared dishes and quality cask ales. And best of all, your fluffy friend can join in all the fun too!
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.
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.