7 New Forest pubs you should visit

Not only is the New Forest rich in scenery and nature, but it’s home to some delicious local produce too – and where better to try it than in one of the many traditional New Forest pubs dotted around the national park?

Whether you’re looking for delicious pub food in the New Forest or want to sample some local ales in a sunny beer garden, we’ve rounded up 7 of the best pubs in the New Forest for you to visit on your next holiday.

And if you need somewhere cosy and close by to sleep off the feast when you’re done, take a look at our collection of New Forest cottages by clicking the button below.

New Forest cottages

High Corner Inn, Linwood

Best New Forest country pub

If you’re looking for country pubs in the New Forest, they don’t get much more off the beaten track than this! High Corner Inn is a traditional pub, tucked down an unmade track; it's a bit tricky to get to, but it’s worth the journey. The surrounding countryside is rich with ponies, deer and other creatures, while the woodland nearby is perfect for walking off a big meal. The pub itself offers a menu packed with crowd-pleasing favourites and the garden is simply gorgeous in summer.

The Drift Inn, Beaulieu

Best New Forest dog-friendly pub

Due to the sheer number of walkies on offer, there are many dog-friendly pubs in the New Forest but this one will really set tails wagging. Surrounded by acres of heathland close to Beaulieu, The Drift Inn offers a warm welcome for both humans and hounds, with a fresh bowl of water, fluffy towel and even a dog treat for four-legged visitors. Boasting a menu full of local produce too, this is a great New Forest pub for all members of the family.  

Photo credit: Instagram @chefiangibbs and @east.end.arms

The East End Arms, Lymington

Best traditional New Forest pub

One of the finest traditional English pubs in the New Forest, The East End Arms in Lymington has a menu bursting with local and seasonal produce, as well as a carefully curated wine list, all of which is sure to whet your appetite. Tuck into seared wild salmon, Asian tempura soft-shelled crab, or the catch of the day paired with a glass of fine wine. The setting is exquisite too, with a cosy yet refined interior and a sunny beer garden too.

The Ship Inn, Lymington

Best New Forest seaside pub

Overlooking the historic and picturesque Lymington harbour, The Ship Inn is one of the best pubs in the New Forest for a drink with a view. The waterside seating area is the perfect spot for a sundowner while, inside, the pub has a relaxed, contemporary feel. Menu highlights include king prawn, crab and chorizo linguine; pan-fried seabass fillets and maple-glazed pork belly and scallops, with menus for kids and vegans too.

The White Buck, Burley

Best New Forest pub for Sunday lunch

There’s nothing like a traditional pub lunch in the New Forest, and Sunday lunch is the best of them all! The White Buck in Burley specialises in a Sunday roast done right – with a choice of dry-aged sirloin, South Coast pork belly, Norfolk chicken or a nut roast with all the trimmings. If you’ve still got room, the pudding menu includes a local cheese board, apple and blackberry crumble, and a classic sticky toffee pudding. Add to this the refined interior and countryside setting, and you’ve got the perfect Sunday!

The Waterloo Arms, Lyndhurst

Best family-friendly New Forest pub

This beautiful thatched pub, dating back to the 17^th century, is one of the best family-friendly pubs in the New Forest, with something to please every member of your gang. The children’s menu includes firm favourites such as scampi, chips and beans; ham, egg and chips; and burger and chips, while the grown-ups can tuck into an array of traditional fare. While the chatter continues after lunch, the kids can stretch their legs in the huge beer garden.

Photo credit: Instagram @rootscosmicdubwarriortraveller

The Queen's Head, Burley

Best historic New Forest pub

This historic pub in the intriguing village of Burley dates back to 1685 and has a fascinating past. The Queen's Head was at the epicentre of the New Forest smuggling trade, but its role was only discovered recently when a secret cellar was unearthed during building work; it contained loot including coins, pistols, cutlasses and brandy bottles. Today, it’s a traditional pub with a mouthwatering menu, guaranteed to please hungry visitors and those on the hunt for a bit of history.

The best New Forest pubs on a map

Stay with us in the New Forest

Is your mouth watering and your tummy rumbling? The New Forest is a brilliant destination for a foodie getaway, whether you want to dine out in the local tea rooms, pubs and restaurants or experiment with local produce in the kitchen of your holiday cottage. Start planning your next holiday by browsing our collection of New Forest cottages – simply click the button below to find your perfect base.

New Forest cottages