The Forest in Winter: Cosy Pubs

For simple seasonal pleasures in the New Forest, pull on your boots for a winter’s walk followed by a pint in front of an open fire at one of the many pubs scattered across the New Forest.

Here are a few favourites.

The Royal Oak, Fritham.

Let’s start with The Royal Oak, Fritham. This authentic rustic thatched pub on a no through lane has been named one of the top country pubs by the Good Pub Guide and its hearty ploughman’s has featured on BBC TV’s Remarkable Places to Eat. Dating back to the 1600s, this is a proper pub where walkers and cyclists prop up the bar, dogs warm themselves in front of the log fire, and local ales are poured direct from the cask, including Bowman’s Royal Oak.

The Horse & Groom

The Horse & Groom, Woodgreen, is a popular village pub with woodburners to warm yourself by, acheerful welcome and menu of updated pub classics.

The Oak

The Oak, Bank, is tucked away, yet strollable from Lyndhurst. This is a cosy little place full of character and charm with log fire, low beams and milk-churn stools at the bar.

The Red Lion

The Red Lion, Boldre, is a traditional country inn with log fires in the grate and comes highly recommended for its very good food.

Keep up to date with Spencers Estate Agents, Lymington for news and updates in the local area.