The New Forest boasts a wealth of dog-friendly spots, perfect for off-leash adventures. And when you’ve worked up an appetite exploring woodland trails, open heathland and picturesque coastal paths, you’ll find plenty of pubs that welcome muddy paws.
Check out some of our favourites, with plenty of variety to keep everyone happy!
Formerly known as The Monkey House, this cosy 18th-century brewpub on Southampton Road is a relaxed and welcoming spot whether you’re popping in for a freshly brewed pint or settling in for a full Monkey dining experience. What makes it extra special is the on-site micro-brewery – you can even pop in for a peek and a chat with the brewer.
The menu features daily seafood and meat specials, a great selection of pub classics, and an award-winning Sunday roast. In summer, live music sessions spill out onto the sunny terrace to accompany dinner, local beers, wines and cocktails — making it a brilliant warm-weather stop after a day exploring the New Forest. Dogs are welcome, the garden gets the evening sunshine, and there’s parking on site.
A beloved country pub, the Foresters Arms is ideally situated in the glorious New Forest countryside. With a great, community-focused atmosphere, live performances and a seasonal menu, this pub makes a fabulous place to stop.
Whether you fancy British pub classics, Thai specials or local delicacies, there is plenty to tempt you. There is an outdoor seating area and loads of walking routes around the pub. Dogs receive a warm welcome.
This quaint inn located in the heart of the New Forest offers a traditional country pub experience, complete with a beer garden and converted outdoor barn. Looking out onto a green and surrounded by various forest walks, it’s in a great, scenic spot.
Enjoy locally sourced and seasonal food with gastro pub favourites and Sunday roasts, along with a great selection of local real ales. Dogs are very welcome and will even be treated to free dog treats.
An award-winning pub sitting on the western edge of the New Forest National Park, The White Hart is a gorgeous Grade II listed building that has been sensitively refurbished as part of Heartwood Inns, featuring a traditional bar with warm, inviting snugs and stylish dining spaces.
Food is firmly at the heart of the experience here, with seasonal à la carte dishes, traditional Sunday roasts with bottomless trimmings, a carefully curated wine list and local brews. And for the dogs? Water bowls and free treats are always on hand, and they’ve partnered with Sir Woofchester to offer a dedicated dog menu — think roast dinner bowls and fish and chips bowls – it’s a dining experience fit for a (bar)king. One of Lymington’s most dog-welcoming pubs, without question.
Located on the edge of the New Forest, you’ll find the Bold Forester, a recently refurbished pub with stylish interiors and a cosy atmosphere. Enjoy a range of bites from hearty lunches and dinner favourites to afternoon tea and cake – the perfect way to recharge after a walk with the family.
Dogs are welcome at the bar and snug area and will love the array of nearby walks through forest and heathland – not to mention the free treats they can enjoy at the pub.
Deep in the heart of the New Forest, between Beaulieu and Lyndhurst, you’ll find The Drift Pub and Restaurant, the ideal place to rest, relax and recharge.
Rustic, laid-back interiors, ample garden space, heathland on the doorstep and delicious pub classics combine to create this fabulous pitstop for the whole family. The menu is full of seasonal, locally-sourced favourites, as well as indulgent breakfast and Sunday lunch options – the perfect accompaniment to long countryside walks.
Surrounded by heath and moorland, The Filly Inn offers a slice of quintessential New Forest beauty. The pub is a restored 16-century inn bursting with charm and cosy character.
With a menu of home-cooked delights and local seafood specials, not to mention a well stocked bar, you’ll have no trouble whiling away the afternoon here. Dogs will love curling up by the fire in winter and enjoying al fresco dining when the sun’s out.
A wonderful family pub, The Snackecatcher offers a casual spot to kick back after meandering around one of the village’s glorious walks. Named after the famous 19th-century catcher of snakes, Harry Mills, the pub is bursting with local pride and character.
Enjoy a tasty menu of traditional pub fare and weekly specials. The beer garden offers a quaint space to luxuriate in good weather, and the play area will keep the kids happy. Dogs are very welcome, too!
If you’re staying in or around Sway, why not pop into Hare & Hounds, a renovated 19th-century coaching inn? With cask-conditioned ales, plenty of wines and a varied menu with extensive vegetarian options, you’ll be well taken care of.
Doggies are very welcome in the bar area if they are kept on a lead and will be pampered with dog beds, blankets and biscuits.
If you’re exploring the coastal wonders of Lymington, Walhampton Arms makes a delightful stop. The 19th-century building retains much of its history, providing a cosy atmosphere for an afternoon of drinking and dining.
With pies of the day, burgers and fish and chips, the menu is full of all the classics, along with a sumptuous breakfast menu and a famous Sunday carvery selection. Dogs are allowed in the bar area and pub garden. There are also five circular walks setting out from the pub, giving you and your pup loads of great routes to explore.
Located in the heart of Lymington, right by the water, The Ship Inn offers delicious dining with premium river views. Seasonal, local ingredients and fresh flavours are staples here, with comforting classics and vegan options for brunch, lunch and dinner.
The sophisticated bar, comfy dining spaces and beer terrace create a superb, relaxed atmosphere for an afternoon or evening of good food and great company. Dogs are welcome in the bar area.
The New Forest is wonderfully dog-friendly, so odds are, wherever you find yourself, there will be a pub around the corner that’ll more than welcome the whole family. When you stay at one of our dog-friendly cottages in the New Forest, you’re never too far from the action!
For more recommendations on the best walks and attractions, see our dog-friendly guide to the New Forest.
