IT'S a traditional edge of New Forest country inn next door to a theme park with steaks, a snug and a secret garden.

The Mortimer Arms at Ower boasts plenty of outside space, hotel rooms and a pop up bowling alley.

Originally part of the Paultons estate, the building dates back to the 1800s when it used to be a Dowager House to house the widow when the lord of the manor died and the heir took over the main house.

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These days there are 14 ensuite bedrooms on the first floor and the pub, restaurant and function room on the ground floor. Original photographs dot the building.

The pub's newly refurbished rooms are the closest to Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World at the end of the popular theme park's long drive, so have seen their fair share of families and young visitors.

Deborah Lewis told the Daily Echo: "The pub has had many famous guests staying including footballers wives with their youngsters. Even famous children can be mischievous but we're not naming and shaming!"

Daily Echo:

Part of a small group of New Forest country inns, the pub, on Romsey Road, has just introduced a new steakhouse bar/grill menu which is proving popular. All the dishes, including fillet, rump, sirloin, tomahawk, cotes de boeuf and flat iron, are freshly prepared on the premises by talented chefs and cooked to the diner's specification with a choice of 15 side dishes and ten sauces.

The classic Sundays roasts go down a storm and also on the menu are eight different burgers, swordfish, chicken and lamb dishes, as well as favourites from around the world including vegetarian and vegan options.

On the drinks front, the gin bar is a big draw and the real ales are always on tap along with an excellent wine list.

Daily Echo:

Weddings, parties, wakes and the likes are held in a large country style barn effect function room. There is even a skittle alley which can be put up to add to a fun evening.

A hidden courtyard amongst herbs and trellises of climbing roses can also be enjoyed.

  • The Mortimer Arms is our pub of the week. If you'd like your watering hole to be featured, click on the link below or email lorelei.reddin@dailyecho.co.uk