IT IS an historic pub that was once at the heart of its community.

And now its new licensee is bidding to return this New Forest watering hole to its former glory.

The Fisherman’s Rest was formerly the pub of choice for many Lymington residents, but its reputation had waned in recent years.

A number of landlords have come and gone, while even its most loyal punters decided to take their trade elsewhere.

But ambitious licensee, Dale Winrow, has already begun to turn the fortunes of this cosy country pub around – and is beginning to win those punters back.

Despite taking over the reins at the Fuller’s pub just four months ago, Dale has already made some drastic changes, mainly in the kitchen.

Gone is the two courses for £10 menu, which, by Dale’s own admission, was churning out “cheap rubbish.”

In its place comes a menu brimming with locally sourced produce and dishes that make your mouth water.

Guinea fowl, hake, scallops and even lobster all feature on the specials board, and, although they are meals that will inevitably set you back a little more than the previous menu, they will hardly break the bank.

In fact, at just £15, the pub’s lobster thermidor represents outstanding value for money.

And in a unique twist on the Sunday carvery, they serve up succulent whole joints of meat to be carved at your table, alongside bowls of vegetables and Yorkshire puddings, for just £15 a head.

But the changes don’t end there.

The staff car park has been converted into a beer garden, providing a comfortable place to relax in the summer months.

The far end of the pub has also been revamped, creating a quieter restaurant area.

Behind the bar, the value for money continues, with drinks offers running between 5pm-7pm Monday to Thursday.

And with Dale admitting he still has even more up his sleeve for the pub, it can’t be long before the Fisherman’s Rest becomes the heart of the Lymington community once again.

The Fisherman's Rest,
All Saints Road,
Lymington,
SO41 8FD
01590 678 931
fullers.co.uk