Key Features
- Property code: A839
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 3pm
- Check out: 10am
- Access statement available
- Bathrooms
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Garden or outside space
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Nearby shop
- Short breaks available
- Tumble dryer
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
Grade II listed, The Old Forge is well appointed to provide couples or a small family deceptively spacious holiday accommodation in the hamlet of Breamore on the edge of the New Forest National Park. This characterful cottage has a sociable open plan living space, with steps up to a well equipped kitchen, which in turn leads out into the fully enclosed courtyard, the perfect spot for meals and drinks al fresco. Upstairs are two comfortable bedrooms with exposed beams, offering a peaceful place to rest your head. This pretty cottage has been designed to offer a perfect base for your New Forest holiday, with the added benefit of a welcoming pub and restaurant just a stone's throw away.
The historic Breamore House is close by, as are the pretty local towns of Fordingbridge and Downton, with Salisbury easily accessible by car or bus, stopping right outside, which can also take you to Bournemouth in the opposite direction. The New Forest provides excellent walking, cycling and horse riding, with chocolate box villages to explore and plenty of country pubs to enjoy. Other local attractions include the New Forest Water Park, just 4 miles away, with a range of family friendly activities, Hamptworth Golf Club, also offering tennis, croquet and a gym and the Roman Villa at Rockbourne.
Please note we are able to offer a discounted rate for stays of 2 weeks and over - please call for further details.
Key Features
- Property code: A839
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 3pm
- Check out: 10am
- Access statement available
- Bathrooms
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Garden or outside space
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Nearby shop
- Short breaks available
- Tumble dryer
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
Grade II listed, The Old Forge is well appointed to provide couples or a small family deceptively spacious holiday accommodation in the hamlet of Breamore on the edge of the New Forest National Park. This characterful cottage has a sociable open plan living space, with steps up to a well equipped kitchen, which in turn leads out into the fully enclosed courtyard, the perfect spot for meals and drinks al fresco. Upstairs are two comfortable bedrooms with exposed beams, offering a peaceful place to rest your head. This pretty cottage has been designed to offer a perfect base for your New Forest holiday, with the added benefit of a welcoming pub and restaurant just a stone's throw away.
The historic Breamore House is close by, as are the pretty local towns of Fordingbridge and Downton, with Salisbury easily accessible by car or bus, stopping right outside, which can also take you to Bournemouth in the opposite direction. The New Forest provides excellent walking, cycling and horse riding, with chocolate box villages to explore and plenty of country pubs to enjoy. Other local attractions include the New Forest Water Park, just 4 miles away, with a range of family friendly activities, Hamptworth Golf Club, also offering tennis, croquet and a gym and the Roman Villa at Rockbourne.
Please note we are able to offer a discounted rate for stays of 2 weeks and over - please call for further details.
Entrance via front door into porch which has room for storing coats and boots.
Door into open plan living area.
Dining/Living area with table seating four and comfortable seating for relaxing with Smart TV and complimentary Netfix channels. Breakfast bar with two stools.
Steps up to modern Kitchen with electric hob, built-in electric oven, dishwasher, fridge-freezer and Nespresso coffee machine. French doors to courtyard garden.
Utility room housing washing machine and tumble dryer.
Shower Room with large walk-in shower, hand basin and WC.
Stairs to first floor.
Spacious Bedroom 1 with low exposed beams, king size bed (5ft), drawers, dressing table and hanging rail.
Bedroom 2 with exposed beams and low ceiling into the eaves, double bed (4ft 6in), drawers and hanging space.
Attractive fully enclosed south-west facing rear courtyard garden with table and chairs and a garden bench.
Surrounded by stunning Hampshire countryside on the edge of the New Forest, the historic village of Breamore is a fabulous location for a family holiday.
Breamore (pronounced Bremmer) is part of the Breamore House estate, the main attraction in the area. This impressive Elizabethan manor house set in beautiful parkland dates back to 1583 but is still in immaculate condition today and comes complete with a corn mill and a fine example of a Saxon Church. The house and grounds are open to the public all year round and are well worth a visit, providing a fascinating insight into the days when Breamore was self-sufficient. Children will especially enjoy the ‘Mizmaze’, a turf maze dating back to Pagan times when it was used as a site for fertility dances, and one of only eight remaining turf mazes to survive in England today.
The village of Breamore is made up almost entirely of Tudor cottages and buildings, including a popular pub, The Bat & Ball, which serves delicious hearty dishes with a South African twist, and a great selection of beer and wines.
Walkers can work up an appetite on the many footpaths through the surrounding woods and countryside, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and conservation area, through which the River Avon winds lazily.
Breamore is by no means isolated though being only two miles from the shops, restaurants, pubs and facilities of Fordingbridge and just eight miles from the impressive cathedral city of Salisbury. Kids and adults alike will love the New Forest Water Park, just four miles away, offering a range of family-friendly activities including wakeboarding, kayaking, SUPing and an inflatable aqua park.
Parking on drive for one car. Further parking on road outside the cottage.
Included: Bed linen and towels (please bring own beach towels), central heating (electric), electricity and WiFi.
Pets: Dogs are welcome - but absolutely not allowed in the bedrooms. Must be over the age of 1 year old (unless agreed with the owner prior to booking) and dogs must be fully house trained and well behaved. Please note that there is a standard pet charge of £30 per pet per week.
Children: All ages welcome. No baby equipment is provided.
Bike Storage: Available outside in the rear courtyard garden (fully enclosed).
EV Charging: EV charging is not possible at this property. There are charging points located in the centre of Fordingbridge (SP6 1HZ).
Short Breaks: Available all year round.
Beaches: Bournemouth (16 miles), Mudeford (14 miles).
Local facilities: Local village store located in Woodgreen (1 mile), other shops including a large Co-Op in Fordingbridge (3 miles) The Bat and Ball Inn (less than a minutes’ walk), The Horse and Groom pub (1 mile).
The Bat and Ball
(Less than a mile)
(23)
A lovely pub on the A338 between Fordingbridge and Salisbury. The menu and specials board are quirky and fun, with the addition of some South African dishes bringing a wry smile. Logs fires snap and crackle in the winter months and when it’s warm, outdoor seating in the sunny beer garden is available. There’s a good selection of drinks at The Bat and Ball, including a range of fine beers. Dogs welcome.
The Bat & Ball (T: 01725 512 252) Salisbury Road, Breamore SP6 2EA
A warm welcome to us and our dog. Excellent food, choice and service. Good value for money. Brilliant atmosphere. We will go back here on our next holiday stay.
November 2023
Had Sunday lunch and took our little dog so sat in the marquee. Lovely setting, very friendly efficient staff. We chose the 3 meats roast which was amazing. Enjoyed it so much we returned on the Thursday night and the same friendly waiter served us. Again excellent food and service. Highly recommend, just wish we lived nearer.
June 2023
Delicious food, great service. We look forward to returning when we are next on holiday in the New Forest.
May 2023
Great food
September 2021
Food excellent but service very slow at Sunday lunchtime.
August 2021
Food very good quality and value for money (excellent Sunday roast) however, be warned, service but great. Long wait for food to come; staff not able to cope with busy lunchtime service.
August 2021
Family and Dog friendly. Good range of food reasonably priced. Plenty of room inside and out.
July 2021
Cosy pub. Good food.
January 2020
Super pub, lovely staff. Beautiful food. Couldn’t fault it.
November 2019
Ate here most of the 7 evenings we stayed in local Woodgreen, and it has a very warm and welcoming atmosphere to everyone. Excellent food of great value for money. Dogs allowed in bar and snug. Same landlord (Jason) as at Horse and Hounds at Woodgreen nearby.
September 2019
Excellent food and friendly service.
July 2019
Very welcoming pub, good varied menu, very friendly staff. Can get busy so booking a good idea
April 2019
Lovely pub with lovely food, beer and staff. Always made to feel welcome here.
March 2019
Always love the food here, and the atmosphere. Never had a bad meal here, whatever we have chosen. Even if we don`t book, Jason and his staff always manage to find us a table.
March 2019
We always love eating out here. The food is good, and there is always something different on the menu. Very friendly staff too.
February 2019
We went to this pub four nights out of seven. The food and service was excellent and the South African dishes were unusual and very tasty. Highly recommended if you are staying in the area.
October 2018
Enjoyed an evening meal - great choice and good standard
July 2018
If you re at woodgreen or around,visit the Bat and ball, two nights we ate there, two nights oustanding. Also mention to the lovely staff!!
July 2018
Delicious food, lovely garden and very dog friendly!
July 2018
Great staff and service. Lovely food
June 2018
Fabulous!! Lovely food, amazing staff...loved it
January 2018
Visited 4 times in our weeks holiday made very welcome food and service at a good price excellent. Our dog also made welcome
September 2017
recommend
July 2017
The Horse & Groom
(Less than a mile)
(39)
A pretty, family run pub in the heart of the New Forest, surrounded by some of the area’s most idyllic scenery. Whether at the start or end of a walk, on a bike ride or just visiting, you can relax here and enjoy a well-deserved drink or some great home cooked pub food, including vegetarian and children’s options.
The Horse & Groom (T: 01725 520739) Woodgreen SP6 2AS
Very friendly staff and excellent food
November 2023
Excellent pub food great best sticky toffee pudding ever, even go there for a day out for the pudding, large garden
October 2023
Had a week staying in Woodgreen and ate out 4 times at the Horse & Groom, the food was amazing every time, the staff were so friendly and there was a good variety of real ales on tap. A great pub to go to for a drink and to eat as well.
September 2023
Great food with large garden for dogs
August 2023
Lovely food & helpful friendly service. Was something for everyone on the menu
August 2023
This pub has a lovely garden and provides good service. Our vegetarian meals on Sunday evening were ok but could have been improved.
May 2023
Perfection! Good choice of food, great atmosphere and fabulous staff.
February 2023
Food and service excellent and dog friendly.
August 2022
Fabulous food and very friendly staff. We ate here several times and the food was always to a very high standard.
April 2022
Lovely pub for food and drink, however I did struggle to find something I really fancied eating on the menu but when we did have the food it was really good
April 2022
Fantastic food and beer, highly recommend
April 2022
Lovely food and not too expensive. Jason and staff were very friendly and service was excellent.
November 2021
Excellent food, lovely atmosphere
September 2021
Eaten here a couple of times while at Oakview cottage, both times the food and service has been excellent would advise booking however as it does get very busy.
September 2021
Fantastic pub , food, beer and staff. Ate here 5 times on our recent trip. Highly recommended.
August 2021
Lovely friendly pub. Good quality food and dogs welcome. Would recommend but booking in advance a must!
August 2021
Eat here on several occasions. Lovely food. Great beer garden. Friendly staff.
July 2021
Very friendly staff, large garden area, dogs welcome. Good range of food very well presented.
July 2021
Very friendly and welcoming. Excellent food and beer. Large beer garden
July 2021
We were given a lovely warm welcome. Fantastic food and generous portions.
May 2021
Great food, great beer, and great service service from Jason Una and Cami!!
May 2021
Lovely pub with great homemade food. We ate there 4 times in one week. Would definitely recommend!
November 2020
Lovely food and friendly staff - always going out of there way to assist
October 2020
Great pub with excellent service and food. Jason, the landlord, is friendly and welcoming. Highly recommended.
September 2020
We stopped for a couple of drinks on our way back to Walnut Barn and the staff where lovely and the food was good. No gastro pub standard but nice.
September 2020
Well organised local village pub, serving delicious food to eat in or take away. Tables in or out and one-way system operating(during COVID-19) Friendly atmosphere and staff. Frequent added attraction of visiting donkeys etc in car park!
August 2020
Friendly atmosphere and staff. Good selection of food on the menu.
July 2020
Very nice pub next to the church in the beautiful surrounding of the new forest, a lot of space to sit outside.
January 2020
Great pub ,good atmosphere good service and very welcoming.
January 2020
Fantastic pub, warm and welcoming, with excellent food and only 5 minutes walk from the cottage
November 2019
Good beer, nice welcome and the food was nice but fish pie portion size was a real disappointment
October 2019
Recently re-opened after renovation. Dogs allowed in the bar area, and menu is wide-ranging if a little on the expensive side. A further attraction are ponies and donkeys in the garden and pub car-park! Same landlord (Jason) as that at the Bat and Ball at Breamore, and often the same staff. As it is in the centre of the village, used by many younger residents which makes its more expensive range perhaps harder to justify. Perhaps waiting to re-establish itself to get the balance right
September 2019
We had two fantastic meals here, the new owner has brought back a friendly atmosphere. It was great to have it open again. Dog friendly as well. Very friendly helpful staff.
September 2019
Fantastic place we ate there on several occassions staying at Beck cottage next door. We were a group of 11 6 adults and 5 children 2 of which have special needs all were accomadated even on the night when they had run out of what one of the children needed due to there Autism it is hard for them to chamnge from what they had chosen but the server worked with him staying calm and come up with a solution took some 15 mins so thank you for that. We were all accomadated on the same table. The food was of a very high standard and no over priced. Recomend it to anyone. On the weekend that we were there they had a beer festival with live music we did not attend due to the kids but was not overly loud, but was very good and i can vouch for the quality of the real ales and ciders.
August 2018
Right on the doorstep which was great. Staff very friendly and food delicious.
June 2018
Great pub good food and fantastic atmosphere. Had some lovely evenings sat by the open fire and enjoying getting to know the locals
April 2018
Visited for lunch to be told not serving tried to book for evening to be told it should be okay but no booking taken. Proceeded to neighbouring bat & ball where we had 4 excellent meals in our weeks holiday. Horse & groom the losers by not being more helpful.
September 2017
Good food and friendly service
September 2017
Great little pub excellent food just beware do not do food on Sundays or monday evenings
April 2017
The Cartwheel Inn
(2 miles)
(7)
The food at The Cartwheel Inn is amazing, and people travel from afar to eat here. This popular, off the beaten track country pub, is a wonderful destination. You can sit outside in the large, sunny beer garden which has lots to keep the children entertained. And in the winter months, a log fire crackles away to keep you warm and cosy. Service is fast and friendly, and the pubs selection of drinks should be enough to keep everyone happy.
The Cartwheel Inn (T: 01725 518362) Whitsbury, Fordingbridge SP6 3PZ
Had an evening meal here on our first night at the Chapel. We hadn't booked in advance but the staff were very helpful and swopped around some tables so we could eat and the food was very good.
March 2024
Such a warm welcoming pub. Excellent food and service. A great autumn menu for adults and a tasty children's menu too. So good we ate there twice!
October 2023
We were staying in the village and visited the Cartwheel several times for just a drink or meals they were lovely people and welcomed us and our small dog every time, the atmosphere was excellent, food excellent we would recommend to everyone…..I am coeliac and nothing was too much trouble.
June 2023
A very tasty Sunday lunch, good sized portions and all the gravy you could ever need!
May 2023
Fantastic food and lovely staff. Best cheesecake!
April 2023
Delicious food friendly staff and atmosphere
October 2019
Good food and service
September 2019
The Fighting Cocks
(3 miles)
(18)
In a beautiful setting close to the village of Godshill is this very popular pub, often surrounded by New Forest ponies, cattle and the odd donkey or two. The décor inside is warm and inviting with lots of quirky country inspired antiquities. There’s seating outside for when it gets warm, and a play area for children. Food here is really good, with many of the dishes featuring local produce. As the menu points out, when it says ‘home-made’ that means on the premises – and it’s delicious.
The Fighting Cocks (T: 01425 652462) Godshill, SP6 2LL
Absolutely first rate food on two occasions that we visited, and service was good considering that it was very popular and busy with families.
April 2024
Lovely pub if only going for a drink, have eaten there in several occasions on holiday but this year food wasn’t as good with new management/owners
October 2023
We booked the first night of our holiday to eat here as it was within walking distance. The food was inedible even though we had steered clear of anything out of the ordinary (pie and two burgers). The meat just tasted bad, defrosted perhaps and left out during the hot weather too long? We were put on the table beside the fireplace where the menu is located - please avoid sitting here at all costs. People were standing over us while we were trying to eat the food, talking and leaning on our table, bumping into our chairs. At one point there were 7 people just standing there on top of us discussing what they were going to eat. No regard for the fact we were eating.
February 2023
Went for Sunday lunch, which was a traditional Sunday Pub meal. Tasty and hot. Made more pleasant by the friendly and helpful service.
May 2022
Best pub & food around. We travel to the New Forest from Leicestershire about 4-5 times a year and always go here for at least 2 meals during our stay. Excellent food and choice is amazing
November 2021
Excellent meals. Kids playground is just brilliant, keeps them occupied while you relax!
August 2021
Had dinner there twice, first time was on a Monday & food & service were excellent. However two days later, it couldn’t have been more disappointing, the quality of food & service was very poor.
July 2021
Not great found the girl on the gate with checking in quite unapproachable . Two steaks they were edible but presentation really poor and extras not at all tasty with steak chips tasted like oven chips not freshly prepared . Overall outside needs a darn good tidy up . Shame as very nearby for Forest side
June 2021
Food was OK, service slow and terse
May 2021
we were very disappointed in the standard of the food having read good reviews. We ordered 2 sausages and mash and a mushroom stroganoff. The sausages were burnt with one on each plate completely inedible. The stroganoff was okay but not as tasty as I expected. In fairness to the pub we didn't complain at the time but seeing how the sausages looked we were surprised that they were served. we just didn't go back.
August 2020
Extremely friendly staff. Had two meals here, one better than the other... there are better pub dining proepects within the forest.
July 2020
Good beer, nice welcome and the food was good, honest, plentiful pub grub
October 2019
Fantastic food and service. The small portions menu very helpful for elderly parents and those wanting to watch their weight!
September 2019
first class service and food
April 2019
The food was varied and all home made which was surprising. The online menu looks very limited but there were lots of specials to choose from which were not shown online. A meal with drinks for six including drinks was £60-70 which was excellent value. Donkeys seem to congregate at the pub so great for taking photos and the kids loved it!
July 2018
Lovely friendly pub with great food and dog friendly.
June 2018
We only came here for a drink but thought it was a very friendly local pub with some nice local beers and ciders. The landlord is also a butcher and we were told that all the meat on the menu is prepared on the premises. Some good traditional menu choices which we happily would have tried had we been here at dinner or lunch time.
February 2018
The service was slow and the food is really very bad :-(
July 2017
The Bull - Downton
(3 miles)
This wonderful Grade II, early 18th century former coach house is packed with character. Low slung chunky beams, an open fire and pretty beer garden create a relaxing atmosphere to drink and dine. The menu includes a good range of snacks, pub favourites, pasta, pizza and fresh fish with a selection of scrumptious desserts.
The Bull (T: 01725 510374) The Headlands, Downton SP5 3HL
Breamore House
(Less than a mile)
(6)
Set in beautiful parkland, the Elizabethan Manor House and Countryside Museum are open for visitors from April until the end of October. The Countryside Museum provides a fascinating insight into the days when the village was self-sufficient, with full size replicas including a blacksmith, village shop, school and dairy. It also boasts one of the finest collections of steam powered farm machinery, tractors, barn machinery and historical tools.
Click here for further information
We visited the museum (with our dog) and enjoyed snacks at the cafe. Definitely worth visiting with an extensive collection of historic equipment and the food was very good too!
May 2023
Brilliant afternoon spent at Breamore House and countryside museum. The house tour was a highlight. ? Excellent value for money and well worth a visit.
August 2021
Really interesting and excellent and informative guide.
September 2019
Breamore House is wonderful. The guides were fun and knowledgeable. They brought the history of the house and the families how have and do live there to life. The countryside museum is also fabuous.
September 2018
Really beautiful house with lots of history, the guided tour was really interesting and you can get a really close look at the furniture, paintings etc
July 2018
A great day out. Very historic and interesting tour
June 2018
Fordingbridge Museum
(3 miles)
(1)
Preserving the rich history of the village of Fordingbridge on the edge of the New Forest, the former market town’s famed folk including artist Augustus John, its role during the Second World War, and its trade past are all documented in this former granary run by volunteers. They have a collection of temporary and permanent exhibitions available to see, as well as seasonal events.
Click Here for further information
Very interesting museum. Loved the dolls houses
October 2019
Rockbourne Roman Villa
(3 miles)
Take a step back in time to visit this Roman villa which was discovered in 1942 thanks to the remains of oyster shells and tiles. Once excavated, the treasures kept coming with a mosaic floor and foundations making themselves apparent until the entire villa was uncovered, not to mention the remains of an Iron Age timber roundhouse as well. Visit, explore, and see what you discover!
Click Here for further information
Insight Activities
(4 miles)
Feeling active? It’s Insight Activities for you then! Archery, combat tag, crossbows, axe throwing and woodland weaponry are all part of the game as you explore the New Forest in Robin Hood style. It’s perfect for anyone over the age of six, and is a chance to learn something new and have fun at the same time!
Click Here for further information
New Forest Water Park
(5 miles)
(2)
When it comes to water sports and activities in the New Forest, the New Forest Water Park is hard to beat. From wake boarding to inflatables, it is an adventurer’s paradise. It’s family friendly and with camping available you can visit for a few hours or a few days, depending on your endurance levels!
Click Here for further information
Expensive but worth it. Visited by 13 year old and Father. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. You need to be able to climb out of the water yourself and on to the equipment. You MUST be able to get your face wet without being scared! Please also note that there is no point in going to watch a family member take part in this activity - you cannot see from the viewing area.
August 2020
We only did the inflatable part of the park but it was great fun, plenty of time to get around the whole thing and do all the best bits over again until exhaustion takes hold! I strongly suggest getting there at least 20 minutes before your booked time though as we were essentially told off for arriving late even though we were there for the time we booked for.
February 2018
Highcliffe Beach
(16 miles)
Highcliffe beach, beneath the popular Cliffhanger Restaurant is a part sandy, part pebble beach. The beach has sloping access as well as steps down to the shore from the pay and display clifftop car park. To the east, Highcliffe beach towards Barton on Sea is a part sandy beach at the foot of the second most eroded cliff in England. This side of the beach is dog-friendly all year. However do check the tide times as high tide can make it difficult to walk along the beach.
To the west towards Highcliffe Castle beach, the promenade leads across the top of the small beaches inbetween the groynes with views across Christchurch Bay and Hengistbury Head. Groynes 4-8 have dog restrictions as does the promenade during the summer months, May-September.
Highcliffe Castle Beach
(16 miles)
(3)
A picturesque, tree-lined beach of shingle, and sand at low tide. Good facilities on the cliff top including an excellent tea room, public toilets, baby change and a children’s play area in the Castle gardens. Plenty of parking and sloping access down to the beach. Highcliffe Castle beach is dog-friendly all year round.
Very picturesque beach with great access, looks good for a beach day
October 2021
Lovely
April 2019
Lovely clean sandy beach and a really i would highly recommend this spot for your car to break down takes the ouch out of waiting for the recovery truck
April 2017
Avon Beach
(17 miles)
(2)
A family friendly beach close to Mudeford and Christchurch Harbour with plenty to do for all. For those with disabilities or small children there is a beach level carpark, and to keep everyone safe there is a designated bathing area and a seperate area allocated for watersports, all overseen by lifeguards in the summer months. This pretty sand and shingle beach is backed by trees and countryside and if you fancy some fresh local seafood or simply a coffee, ice cream or a cold drink, the beach is home to the excellent Noisy Lobster, serving breakfast, lunch and supper all year round.
Nice beach with good facilities
April 2023
Beautiful beach, lots of sand for youngsters- definitely been high on our favourites list, for more than 30 years and still is now the 'children' are nearly 30! - well worth the drive from New Forest. The Noisy Lobster is great and now has an 'outdoor upstairs' too. The Beach Cafe, half-way along, is excellent too- used to do very good carrot cake! The connecting beach towards Steamer Point is dog-friendly all year which is a bonus. Walking to the quay end, you can catch the ferry to Hengistbury Head which is beautiful beach too and often quieter (top favourite!) Even this last week (JULY 2021) the 'kids' wanted to crab-fish from Mudeford Quay!!
August 2021
Barton on Sea
(17 miles)
(2)
A stony beach with sandy areas as the tide goes out, and a great spot to do some fossil hunting. The cliffs are subject to considerable coastal erosion and at times parts of the beach can be cordoned off. The Beachcomber Café on the cliff top is one of the most popular cafés in the region. Plenty of parking in car parks along the cliff top as well as on-road parking.
A pleasant walk along the cliff top and along the beach. There was less cliff than last time we went to the New Forest.
June 2023
Super walk, nice and easy and great place for a meal or tea and cake by the car park.
April 2019
Mudeford Sandbank
(17 miles)
(3)
This is one of the most scenic of New Forest beaches. Lined with some of the most picturesque and expensive beach huts in the country! There’s no parking next to the beach, as it’s a traffic-free zone, but there’s pay and display parking at Hengistbury Head from where you can catch a little train to the sandbank, and Mudeford Quay which runs a small ferry (5 mins) over to the sandbank. Can also be reached on foot and by bicycle.
This is a holiday must. A short ferry out to amazing beach makes for a great day out.
September 2022
As usual, stunning. 4 ferries but sadly the Land train not running although according to their web site they were. Always visit when in the area
September 2020
Beautiful place, our favourite beach in south of England. It feels like an island, when you go over on the ferry and at times (off-season!) on sunny days it can feel like a little piece of Heaven, it's so peaceful and beautiful- bit of a sense of New England. There's a super little 'restaurant', the Beach Hut, which does great breakfasts, meals all day and some evenings. Also takeaway eg pizzas, you can eat on the beach. Very simple surroundings, with a sheltered veranda that can be uncovered in fine weather, and amazing views. Quite pricey and often very busy (and you are best to ring and check opening times and book since often weather and ferry-dependant) but the quality of the food and those stunning views make it more than worthwhile!
March 2018
September 2023
We enjoyed our stay. Downstairs was helpfully cool in the unusual heat.
June 2019
Very comfy. Everything we needed.
May 2019
We had a wonderful stay
February 2019
We found it to be very cosy, and the kitchen was equipped very well.
November 2018
The Old Forge is a lovely well thought out holiday cottage. Well equipped with quality furnishings and fittings. It looks small from the outside but is actually very spacious and comfortable.
June 2018
Delightful cottage. Very high standard, everything is provided, very comfortable.
June 2018
Delightful cottage. Very high standard, everything is provided, very comfortable.
May 2018
Lovely stay. Great little cottage which was actually far greater space than we were expecting! One of the best equipped cottages I've ever stayed in!
September 2023
We enjoyed our stay. Downstairs was helpfully cool in the unusual heat.
June 2019
Very comfy. Everything we needed.
May 2019
We had a wonderful stay
February 2019
We found it to be very cosy, and the kitchen was equipped very well.
November 2018
The Old Forge is a lovely well thought out holiday cottage. Well equipped with quality furnishings and fittings. It looks small from the outside but is actually very spacious and comfortable.
June 2018
Delightful cottage. Very high standard, everything is provided, very comfortable.
June 2018
Delightful cottage. Very high standard, everything is provided, very comfortable.
May 2018
Lovely stay. Great little cottage which was actually far greater space than we were expecting! One of the best equipped cottages I've ever stayed in!
The Bat and Ball
(Less than a mile)
(23)
A lovely pub on the A338 between Fordingbridge and Salisbury. The menu and specials board are quirky and fun, with the addition of some South African dishes bringing a wry smile. Logs fires snap and crackle in the winter months and when it’s warm, outdoor seating in the sunny beer garden is available. There’s a good selection of drinks at The Bat and Ball, including a range of fine beers. Dogs welcome.
The Bat & Ball (T: 01725 512 252) Salisbury Road, Breamore SP6 2EA
A warm welcome to us and our dog. Excellent food, choice and service. Good value for money. Brilliant atmosphere. We will go back here on our next holiday stay.
November 2023
Had Sunday lunch and took our little dog so sat in the marquee. Lovely setting, very friendly efficient staff. We chose the 3 meats roast which was amazing. Enjoyed it so much we returned on the Thursday night and the same friendly waiter served us. Again excellent food and service. Highly recommend, just wish we lived nearer.
June 2023
Delicious food, great service. We look forward to returning when we are next on holiday in the New Forest.
May 2023
Great food
September 2021
Food excellent but service very slow at Sunday lunchtime.
August 2021
Food very good quality and value for money (excellent Sunday roast) however, be warned, service but great. Long wait for food to come; staff not able to cope with busy lunchtime service.
August 2021
Family and Dog friendly. Good range of food reasonably priced. Plenty of room inside and out.
July 2021
Cosy pub. Good food.
January 2020
Super pub, lovely staff. Beautiful food. Couldn’t fault it.
November 2019
Ate here most of the 7 evenings we stayed in local Woodgreen, and it has a very warm and welcoming atmosphere to everyone. Excellent food of great value for money. Dogs allowed in bar and snug. Same landlord (Jason) as at Horse and Hounds at Woodgreen nearby.
September 2019
Excellent food and friendly service.
July 2019
Very welcoming pub, good varied menu, very friendly staff. Can get busy so booking a good idea
April 2019
Lovely pub with lovely food, beer and staff. Always made to feel welcome here.
March 2019
Always love the food here, and the atmosphere. Never had a bad meal here, whatever we have chosen. Even if we don`t book, Jason and his staff always manage to find us a table.
March 2019
We always love eating out here. The food is good, and there is always something different on the menu. Very friendly staff too.
February 2019
We went to this pub four nights out of seven. The food and service was excellent and the South African dishes were unusual and very tasty. Highly recommended if you are staying in the area.
October 2018
Enjoyed an evening meal - great choice and good standard
July 2018
If you re at woodgreen or around,visit the Bat and ball, two nights we ate there, two nights oustanding. Also mention to the lovely staff!!
July 2018
Delicious food, lovely garden and very dog friendly!
July 2018
Great staff and service. Lovely food
June 2018
Fabulous!! Lovely food, amazing staff...loved it
January 2018
Visited 4 times in our weeks holiday made very welcome food and service at a good price excellent. Our dog also made welcome
September 2017
recommend
July 2017
The Horse & Groom
(Less than a mile)
(39)
A pretty, family run pub in the heart of the New Forest, surrounded by some of the area’s most idyllic scenery. Whether at the start or end of a walk, on a bike ride or just visiting, you can relax here and enjoy a well-deserved drink or some great home cooked pub food, including vegetarian and children’s options.
The Horse & Groom (T: 01725 520739) Woodgreen SP6 2AS
Very friendly staff and excellent food
November 2023
Excellent pub food great best sticky toffee pudding ever, even go there for a day out for the pudding, large garden
October 2023
Had a week staying in Woodgreen and ate out 4 times at the Horse & Groom, the food was amazing every time, the staff were so friendly and there was a good variety of real ales on tap. A great pub to go to for a drink and to eat as well.
September 2023
Great food with large garden for dogs
August 2023
Lovely food & helpful friendly service. Was something for everyone on the menu
August 2023
This pub has a lovely garden and provides good service. Our vegetarian meals on Sunday evening were ok but could have been improved.
May 2023
Perfection! Good choice of food, great atmosphere and fabulous staff.
February 2023
Food and service excellent and dog friendly.
August 2022
Fabulous food and very friendly staff. We ate here several times and the food was always to a very high standard.
April 2022
Lovely pub for food and drink, however I did struggle to find something I really fancied eating on the menu but when we did have the food it was really good
April 2022
Fantastic food and beer, highly recommend
April 2022
Lovely food and not too expensive. Jason and staff were very friendly and service was excellent.
November 2021
Excellent food, lovely atmosphere
September 2021
Eaten here a couple of times while at Oakview cottage, both times the food and service has been excellent would advise booking however as it does get very busy.
September 2021
Fantastic pub , food, beer and staff. Ate here 5 times on our recent trip. Highly recommended.
August 2021
Lovely friendly pub. Good quality food and dogs welcome. Would recommend but booking in advance a must!
August 2021
Eat here on several occasions. Lovely food. Great beer garden. Friendly staff.
July 2021
Very friendly staff, large garden area, dogs welcome. Good range of food very well presented.
July 2021
Very friendly and welcoming. Excellent food and beer. Large beer garden
July 2021
We were given a lovely warm welcome. Fantastic food and generous portions.
May 2021
Great food, great beer, and great service service from Jason Una and Cami!!
May 2021
Lovely pub with great homemade food. We ate there 4 times in one week. Would definitely recommend!
November 2020
Lovely food and friendly staff - always going out of there way to assist
October 2020
Great pub with excellent service and food. Jason, the landlord, is friendly and welcoming. Highly recommended.
September 2020
We stopped for a couple of drinks on our way back to Walnut Barn and the staff where lovely and the food was good. No gastro pub standard but nice.
September 2020
Well organised local village pub, serving delicious food to eat in or take away. Tables in or out and one-way system operating(during COVID-19) Friendly atmosphere and staff. Frequent added attraction of visiting donkeys etc in car park!
August 2020
Friendly atmosphere and staff. Good selection of food on the menu.
July 2020
Very nice pub next to the church in the beautiful surrounding of the new forest, a lot of space to sit outside.
January 2020
Great pub ,good atmosphere good service and very welcoming.
January 2020
Fantastic pub, warm and welcoming, with excellent food and only 5 minutes walk from the cottage
November 2019
Good beer, nice welcome and the food was nice but fish pie portion size was a real disappointment
October 2019
Recently re-opened after renovation. Dogs allowed in the bar area, and menu is wide-ranging if a little on the expensive side. A further attraction are ponies and donkeys in the garden and pub car-park! Same landlord (Jason) as that at the Bat and Ball at Breamore, and often the same staff. As it is in the centre of the village, used by many younger residents which makes its more expensive range perhaps harder to justify. Perhaps waiting to re-establish itself to get the balance right
September 2019
We had two fantastic meals here, the new owner has brought back a friendly atmosphere. It was great to have it open again. Dog friendly as well. Very friendly helpful staff.
September 2019
Fantastic place we ate there on several occassions staying at Beck cottage next door. We were a group of 11 6 adults and 5 children 2 of which have special needs all were accomadated even on the night when they had run out of what one of the children needed due to there Autism it is hard for them to chamnge from what they had chosen but the server worked with him staying calm and come up with a solution took some 15 mins so thank you for that. We were all accomadated on the same table. The food was of a very high standard and no over priced. Recomend it to anyone. On the weekend that we were there they had a beer festival with live music we did not attend due to the kids but was not overly loud, but was very good and i can vouch for the quality of the real ales and ciders.
August 2018
Right on the doorstep which was great. Staff very friendly and food delicious.
June 2018
Great pub good food and fantastic atmosphere. Had some lovely evenings sat by the open fire and enjoying getting to know the locals
April 2018
Visited for lunch to be told not serving tried to book for evening to be told it should be okay but no booking taken. Proceeded to neighbouring bat & ball where we had 4 excellent meals in our weeks holiday. Horse & groom the losers by not being more helpful.
September 2017
Good food and friendly service
September 2017
Great little pub excellent food just beware do not do food on Sundays or monday evenings
April 2017
The Cartwheel Inn
(2 miles)
(7)
The food at The Cartwheel Inn is amazing, and people travel from afar to eat here. This popular, off the beaten track country pub, is a wonderful destination. You can sit outside in the large, sunny beer garden which has lots to keep the children entertained. And in the winter months, a log fire crackles away to keep you warm and cosy. Service is fast and friendly, and the pubs selection of drinks should be enough to keep everyone happy.
The Cartwheel Inn (T: 01725 518362) Whitsbury, Fordingbridge SP6 3PZ
Had an evening meal here on our first night at the Chapel. We hadn't booked in advance but the staff were very helpful and swopped around some tables so we could eat and the food was very good.
March 2024
Such a warm welcoming pub. Excellent food and service. A great autumn menu for adults and a tasty children's menu too. So good we ate there twice!
October 2023
We were staying in the village and visited the Cartwheel several times for just a drink or meals they were lovely people and welcomed us and our small dog every time, the atmosphere was excellent, food excellent we would recommend to everyone…..I am coeliac and nothing was too much trouble.
June 2023
A very tasty Sunday lunch, good sized portions and all the gravy you could ever need!
May 2023
Fantastic food and lovely staff. Best cheesecake!
April 2023
Delicious food friendly staff and atmosphere
October 2019
Good food and service
September 2019
The Fighting Cocks
(3 miles)
(18)
In a beautiful setting close to the village of Godshill is this very popular pub, often surrounded by New Forest ponies, cattle and the odd donkey or two. The décor inside is warm and inviting with lots of quirky country inspired antiquities. There’s seating outside for when it gets warm, and a play area for children. Food here is really good, with many of the dishes featuring local produce. As the menu points out, when it says ‘home-made’ that means on the premises – and it’s delicious.
The Fighting Cocks (T: 01425 652462) Godshill, SP6 2LL
Absolutely first rate food on two occasions that we visited, and service was good considering that it was very popular and busy with families.
April 2024
Lovely pub if only going for a drink, have eaten there in several occasions on holiday but this year food wasn’t as good with new management/owners
October 2023
We booked the first night of our holiday to eat here as it was within walking distance. The food was inedible even though we had steered clear of anything out of the ordinary (pie and two burgers). The meat just tasted bad, defrosted perhaps and left out during the hot weather too long? We were put on the table beside the fireplace where the menu is located - please avoid sitting here at all costs. People were standing over us while we were trying to eat the food, talking and leaning on our table, bumping into our chairs. At one point there were 7 people just standing there on top of us discussing what they were going to eat. No regard for the fact we were eating.
February 2023
Went for Sunday lunch, which was a traditional Sunday Pub meal. Tasty and hot. Made more pleasant by the friendly and helpful service.
May 2022
Best pub & food around. We travel to the New Forest from Leicestershire about 4-5 times a year and always go here for at least 2 meals during our stay. Excellent food and choice is amazing
November 2021
Excellent meals. Kids playground is just brilliant, keeps them occupied while you relax!
August 2021
Had dinner there twice, first time was on a Monday & food & service were excellent. However two days later, it couldn’t have been more disappointing, the quality of food & service was very poor.
July 2021
Not great found the girl on the gate with checking in quite unapproachable . Two steaks they were edible but presentation really poor and extras not at all tasty with steak chips tasted like oven chips not freshly prepared . Overall outside needs a darn good tidy up . Shame as very nearby for Forest side
June 2021
Food was OK, service slow and terse
May 2021
we were very disappointed in the standard of the food having read good reviews. We ordered 2 sausages and mash and a mushroom stroganoff. The sausages were burnt with one on each plate completely inedible. The stroganoff was okay but not as tasty as I expected. In fairness to the pub we didn't complain at the time but seeing how the sausages looked we were surprised that they were served. we just didn't go back.
August 2020
Extremely friendly staff. Had two meals here, one better than the other... there are better pub dining proepects within the forest.
July 2020
Good beer, nice welcome and the food was good, honest, plentiful pub grub
October 2019
Fantastic food and service. The small portions menu very helpful for elderly parents and those wanting to watch their weight!
September 2019
first class service and food
April 2019
The food was varied and all home made which was surprising. The online menu looks very limited but there were lots of specials to choose from which were not shown online. A meal with drinks for six including drinks was £60-70 which was excellent value. Donkeys seem to congregate at the pub so great for taking photos and the kids loved it!
July 2018
Lovely friendly pub with great food and dog friendly.
June 2018
We only came here for a drink but thought it was a very friendly local pub with some nice local beers and ciders. The landlord is also a butcher and we were told that all the meat on the menu is prepared on the premises. Some good traditional menu choices which we happily would have tried had we been here at dinner or lunch time.
February 2018
The service was slow and the food is really very bad :-(
July 2017
The Bull - Downton
(3 miles)
This wonderful Grade II, early 18th century former coach house is packed with character. Low slung chunky beams, an open fire and pretty beer garden create a relaxing atmosphere to drink and dine. The menu includes a good range of snacks, pub favourites, pasta, pizza and fresh fish with a selection of scrumptious desserts.
The Bull (T: 01725 510374) The Headlands, Downton SP5 3HL
Breamore House
(Less than a mile)
(6)
Set in beautiful parkland, the Elizabethan Manor House and Countryside Museum are open for visitors from April until the end of October. The Countryside Museum provides a fascinating insight into the days when the village was self-sufficient, with full size replicas including a blacksmith, village shop, school and dairy. It also boasts one of the finest collections of steam powered farm machinery, tractors, barn machinery and historical tools.
Click here for further information
We visited the museum (with our dog) and enjoyed snacks at the cafe. Definitely worth visiting with an extensive collection of historic equipment and the food was very good too!
May 2023
Brilliant afternoon spent at Breamore House and countryside museum. The house tour was a highlight. ? Excellent value for money and well worth a visit.
August 2021
Really interesting and excellent and informative guide.
September 2019
Breamore House is wonderful. The guides were fun and knowledgeable. They brought the history of the house and the families how have and do live there to life. The countryside museum is also fabuous.
September 2018
Really beautiful house with lots of history, the guided tour was really interesting and you can get a really close look at the furniture, paintings etc
July 2018
A great day out. Very historic and interesting tour
June 2018
Fordingbridge Museum
(3 miles)
(1)
Preserving the rich history of the village of Fordingbridge on the edge of the New Forest, the former market town’s famed folk including artist Augustus John, its role during the Second World War, and its trade past are all documented in this former granary run by volunteers. They have a collection of temporary and permanent exhibitions available to see, as well as seasonal events.
Click Here for further information
Very interesting museum. Loved the dolls houses
October 2019
Rockbourne Roman Villa
(3 miles)
Take a step back in time to visit this Roman villa which was discovered in 1942 thanks to the remains of oyster shells and tiles. Once excavated, the treasures kept coming with a mosaic floor and foundations making themselves apparent until the entire villa was uncovered, not to mention the remains of an Iron Age timber roundhouse as well. Visit, explore, and see what you discover!
Click Here for further information
Insight Activities
(4 miles)
Feeling active? It’s Insight Activities for you then! Archery, combat tag, crossbows, axe throwing and woodland weaponry are all part of the game as you explore the New Forest in Robin Hood style. It’s perfect for anyone over the age of six, and is a chance to learn something new and have fun at the same time!
Click Here for further information
New Forest Water Park
(5 miles)
(2)
When it comes to water sports and activities in the New Forest, the New Forest Water Park is hard to beat. From wake boarding to inflatables, it is an adventurer’s paradise. It’s family friendly and with camping available you can visit for a few hours or a few days, depending on your endurance levels!
Click Here for further information
Expensive but worth it. Visited by 13 year old and Father. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience. You need to be able to climb out of the water yourself and on to the equipment. You MUST be able to get your face wet without being scared! Please also note that there is no point in going to watch a family member take part in this activity - you cannot see from the viewing area.
August 2020
We only did the inflatable part of the park but it was great fun, plenty of time to get around the whole thing and do all the best bits over again until exhaustion takes hold! I strongly suggest getting there at least 20 minutes before your booked time though as we were essentially told off for arriving late even though we were there for the time we booked for.
February 2018
Highcliffe Beach
(16 miles)
Highcliffe beach, beneath the popular Cliffhanger Restaurant is a part sandy, part pebble beach. The beach has sloping access as well as steps down to the shore from the pay and display clifftop car park. To the east, Highcliffe beach towards Barton on Sea is a part sandy beach at the foot of the second most eroded cliff in England. This side of the beach is dog-friendly all year. However do check the tide times as high tide can make it difficult to walk along the beach.
To the west towards Highcliffe Castle beach, the promenade leads across the top of the small beaches inbetween the groynes with views across Christchurch Bay and Hengistbury Head. Groynes 4-8 have dog restrictions as does the promenade during the summer months, May-September.
Highcliffe Castle Beach
(16 miles)
(3)
A picturesque, tree-lined beach of shingle, and sand at low tide. Good facilities on the cliff top including an excellent tea room, public toilets, baby change and a children’s play area in the Castle gardens. Plenty of parking and sloping access down to the beach. Highcliffe Castle beach is dog-friendly all year round.
Very picturesque beach with great access, looks good for a beach day
October 2021
Lovely
April 2019
Lovely clean sandy beach and a really i would highly recommend this spot for your car to break down takes the ouch out of waiting for the recovery truck
April 2017
Avon Beach
(17 miles)
(2)
A family friendly beach close to Mudeford and Christchurch Harbour with plenty to do for all. For those with disabilities or small children there is a beach level carpark, and to keep everyone safe there is a designated bathing area and a seperate area allocated for watersports, all overseen by lifeguards in the summer months. This pretty sand and shingle beach is backed by trees and countryside and if you fancy some fresh local seafood or simply a coffee, ice cream or a cold drink, the beach is home to the excellent Noisy Lobster, serving breakfast, lunch and supper all year round.
Nice beach with good facilities
April 2023
Beautiful beach, lots of sand for youngsters- definitely been high on our favourites list, for more than 30 years and still is now the 'children' are nearly 30! - well worth the drive from New Forest. The Noisy Lobster is great and now has an 'outdoor upstairs' too. The Beach Cafe, half-way along, is excellent too- used to do very good carrot cake! The connecting beach towards Steamer Point is dog-friendly all year which is a bonus. Walking to the quay end, you can catch the ferry to Hengistbury Head which is beautiful beach too and often quieter (top favourite!) Even this last week (JULY 2021) the 'kids' wanted to crab-fish from Mudeford Quay!!
August 2021
Barton on Sea
(17 miles)
(2)
A stony beach with sandy areas as the tide goes out, and a great spot to do some fossil hunting. The cliffs are subject to considerable coastal erosion and at times parts of the beach can be cordoned off. The Beachcomber Café on the cliff top is one of the most popular cafés in the region. Plenty of parking in car parks along the cliff top as well as on-road parking.
A pleasant walk along the cliff top and along the beach. There was less cliff than last time we went to the New Forest.
June 2023
Super walk, nice and easy and great place for a meal or tea and cake by the car park.
April 2019
Mudeford Sandbank
(17 miles)
(3)
This is one of the most scenic of New Forest beaches. Lined with some of the most picturesque and expensive beach huts in the country! There’s no parking next to the beach, as it’s a traffic-free zone, but there’s pay and display parking at Hengistbury Head from where you can catch a little train to the sandbank, and Mudeford Quay which runs a small ferry (5 mins) over to the sandbank. Can also be reached on foot and by bicycle.
This is a holiday must. A short ferry out to amazing beach makes for a great day out.
September 2022
As usual, stunning. 4 ferries but sadly the Land train not running although according to their web site they were. Always visit when in the area
September 2020
Beautiful place, our favourite beach in south of England. It feels like an island, when you go over on the ferry and at times (off-season!) on sunny days it can feel like a little piece of Heaven, it's so peaceful and beautiful- bit of a sense of New England. There's a super little 'restaurant', the Beach Hut, which does great breakfasts, meals all day and some evenings. Also takeaway eg pizzas, you can eat on the beach. Very simple surroundings, with a sheltered veranda that can be uncovered in fine weather, and amazing views. Quite pricey and often very busy (and you are best to ring and check opening times and book since often weather and ferry-dependant) but the quality of the food and those stunning views make it more than worthwhile!
March 2018
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