IT is a pub for all seasons. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the New Forest and surrounded by fields with horses grazing, it is no surprise that The New Forest in Ashurst is popular with locals and people from across Hampshire.
With two open fireplaces inside for people to keep themselves cosy in the winter, and a spacious pub garden for those long summer days, the pub has something for all weathers.
The watering hole in Lyndhurst Road, which is owned by pub giant Fullers, is currently run by holding manager Martin Shires.
However, the 26-year-old, who has been at the helm since mid-July, is set to say goodbye to the pub as a new landlord will take the reins next week.
He said: “It is completely different here; I have worked in pubs in Oxford, Lyndhurst and Sonning, and nowhere has had a better location.
“It is worth coming here to soak up the atmosphere on a hot summer day or in the winter to sit inside next to the fireplace.
“I have really enjoyed my time here, it is a fantastic pub, it has a fantastic garden area, and it is right in the heart of the New Forest with a vast garden.”
A pint of Fosters costs £3.69, and there are a choice of real ales from Fuller’s range including London Pride which costs £3.60.
The food is very popular with punters and the watering hole specialises in barbecues and hog roasts which are all sourced from Hampshire.
The garden area is one of the jewels in the pub’s crown with its conservatory with uninterrupted views across the New Forest as well as a beer garden, both of which are always packed to the rafters during the summer.
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