Horse and Groom, Fordingbridge

Official site of Horse and Groom - www.horseandgroom-woodgreen.com

Official site of Horse and Groom - www.horseandgroom-woodgreen.com

An outstanding country pub which is a venue of choice for ale drinkers, locals and passers-by, and they even tolerate grockles.  It sits in its own grounds in the middle of the village, and despite its proximity to the New Forest isn’t spoiled by tourism.  There is plenty of parking at the front of the pub in its own car park, so local inhabitants have made it clear you should not park outside their houses. At the front is a pleasant seating area, and there’s a small garden at the back.  Inside, there is a large front bar with plenty of comfortable seating, a smaller locals’ bar at one side and a restaurant area the other.  A double sided chimney indicates where the original front rooms, now open-plan, used to be divided.  It feels very traditional and welcoming, the landlord greeted us like old friends, the staff were incredibly helpful, and the regulars were happy to chat.  Food is locally sourced, well prepared and reasonably priced for the area.  Ales on were Downton’s Quad hop, Sixpenny’s 6d Best, Ringwood 49er and Hopback’s Summer Lightning, all in excellent condition.  I shall make an effort to come here whenever I’m in the area.  Well worth seeking out.