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Your Total Guide To eating & drinking

Britannia Parkstone (Sponsor Eating & Drinking)

Best Pubs in the New Forest

Welcome to our ultimate guide to the best pubs in the New Forest! Whether you’re searching for a cosy country inn tucked away in the woods, a lively local with a welcoming atmosphere, or a pub serving up mouth-watering classic dishes, this guide is your go-to resource.

Every venue featured here has been personally trialled and tested by the Total Guide to Dorset team, so you can be confident that our recommendations are trustworthy, honest, and up to the highest standard.

We’ve explored every corner of the New Forest, sampling the local ales, tasting seasonal menus, and soaking up the unique atmosphere each pub has to offer. From historic coaching inns to modern gastropubs, our selections highlight the best spots to enjoy a relaxed drink, a delicious meal, or a memorable night out.

If you’re planning a weekend visit, don’t miss our curated suggestions for the perfect Sunday lunch in the New Forest many of the pubs featured here serve exceptional roasts and traditional favourites that are well worth the trip. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, our guide ensures you won’t miss the very best that the New Forest pub scene has to offer.

Planning a trip? Check out our guide on how to spend a weekend in the New Forest to make the most of your visit alongside these top pub stops.

Lymington

The White Hart Lymington

The White Hart Lymington

About: The White Hart is a charming, award-winning pub and restaurant located on the western edge of the New Forest in the historic coastal town of Lymington. Housed in a beautifully restored Grade II listed building, it combines traditional pub character with stylish interiors and a welcoming atmosphere.

The pub is known for its fresh, seasonal menus, carefully curated drinks list, and warm hospitality, making it a great choice for everything from relaxed lunches to evening dinners, catch-ups with friends, or family meals. 

Opening Times: 

  • Mon-Fri: 12pm - 11pm
  • Saturday: 11:30am - 11pm
  • Sunday: 11:30am - 10pm

Menu: Click here

Book: Call 01590 615777

Address: 17 Milford Rd, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 8DF

Helpful Information:

Where to park: Has a free car park with lots of spaces.

Are they family-friendly? Yes, they provide a kids' menu, which you can view here.

Are they dog-friendly? It’s dog-friendly, with a dedicated menu and treats for four-legged visitors.

Find out more

Lyndhurst

The New Forest Ashurst

About: Set amid stunning scenery, The New Forest in Ashurst delivers a genuine taste of the good life with a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced dishes and a bar stocked with both exciting new drinks and classic favourites.

Opening Times: Monday–Saturday 11:30 am–11:00 pm & Sunday 12:00 pm–10:00 pm

Menu: Click here

Book: 02380 292721

Address: The New Forest, Lyndhurst Road, Ashurst, Hampshire, SO40 7AA

Helpful Information:

Where to park: They have a free large car park

Are they family-friendly? Yes kids are welcome and they have a dedicated kids' menu available.

Are they dog-friendly? Yes, they're dog-friendly, welcoming dogs throughout their bar, restaurant, and garden areas.

Find out more

The Oak Inn

About: The Oak Inn is a classic English pub that captures the timeless charm of the region. Steeped in history spanning several centuries, this traditional inn offers warm hospitality, a welcoming atmosphere, and a menu full of hearty, delicious pub favourites.

Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing pint by the roaring fireplace or a satisfying meal in a rustic setting, The Oak Inn is a cherished spot where both locals and visitors come together to experience the true spirit of the New Forest.

Opening Times: 

  • Monday–Tuesday 11:30 am–8:30 pm
  • Wednesday–Thursday 11:30 am–9:30 pm
  • Friday 11:00 am–10:30 pm
  • Saturday 11:00 am–10:00 pm
  • Sunday 11:00 am–6:30 pm

Menu: Click here

Book: Call 02380 282350

Address: The Oak Inn, Pinkney Lane, Bank, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, SO43 7FD

Helpful Information:

Where to park: They have a car park directly in front of the pub.

Are they family-friendly? Yes they're family-friendly and have baby changing facilities available. Children's menu here.

Are they dog-friendly? Yes, they're dog-friendly and assistance dogs welcome too.

Find out more

Lymington

The Hare and Hounds, Sway

About: Their menu is full of hearty, home-cooked dishes, with ever-changing specials to keep every visit fresh and exciting. 

Opening Times: 

  • Monday – Saturday: 12.00 – 21.00
  • Sunday: 12.00 – 21.00

Menu: Click here

Book: Call 01590 682404

Address: The Hare & Hounds, Sway, Hampshire, SO41 6AL

Helpful Information:

Where to park: Parking available, however it can get very busy, so arrive with plenty of time so you don't miss your booking.

Are they family-friendly? Yes, they're family-friendly.

Are they dog-friendly? Dogs are welcome in the bar, just let them know upon booking.

Find out more

Brockenhurst

The Huntsman

About: The Huntsman of Brockenhurst is a classic pub featuring 13 comfortable bedrooms. For generations, it has been a cherished part of Brockenhurst’s heritage, a favourite stop for visitors and a welcoming hub for locals.

Whether you’re after a midweek pit-stop, a delicious meal, a special celebration, or a cosy countryside weekend getaway, The Huntsman has something for everyone.

Opening Times: Monday - Sunday 8am - 11pm

Menu: Click here

Book: Call 01590 622 225

Address: Lyndhurst Road, Brockenhurst, Hampshire, SO42 7RH

Helpful Information:

Where to park: Free parking available with EV charging available.

Are they family-friendly? They're child-friendly, with a dedicated kids' menu.

Are they dog-friendly? You can sit outside in their dog-friendly garden. Their dog-friendly garden provides everything you need to keep tails wagging.

Find out more
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