REVIEW: New Kids Menu at The Oaks, Highcliffe: Kicking Off the Summer Holidays in Style

To celebrate the end of the school term and the start of the summer holidays, we headed straight to The Oaks in Highcliffe after pick-up – and it was the perfect family treat.

The Oaks have just launched a brilliant new kids' menu, and we were genuinely impressed by how refreshingly different it is. Rather than the usual beige offerings, the choices are creative, wholesome and made with care. Our girls had the Chicken Cordon Bleu and the Beef Burger with Cheese and Pickles, and both plates were polished off enthusiastically!

At just £10.50 for two courses, or £13.50 for 3 courses, it’s fantastic value - especially considering the quality, portion sizes and thought put into each dish. The Knickerbocker Glory was the cherry on top, a retro delight that absolutely made their day and set the tone for the summer holidays perfectly.

We were seated in the beautiful conservatory, which is ideal for families as it leads straight onto the garden. The kids loved the lawn games; velcro darts, corn hole, and giant dominoes kept them happily entertained while we adults enjoyed a well-earned catch-up.

And speaking of the adults, as always the food was exceptional. I had the exquisite Sea Bream, Mum went for the Crab, my husband tucked into the Pork Tomahawk, and my Dad had the comforting Steak and Ale Pie. Everyone left happy, full and already looking forward to next time.

We love how the menu changes regularly as it keeps things exciting and gives us a reason to return again and again. That said, I’ll never stop hoping that the Pistachio Soufflé stays firmly on the menu… it’s my absolute favourite and worth the trip alone!

If you’re looking for somewhere relaxed yet special, where the kids are truly catered for and the adults are just as spoiled, The Oaks is a must-visit this summer.