Enjoy the best that local roasts have to offer at Cambium's Sunday Lunch, and treat yourself to a Sunday of no washing up at Careys Manor Hotel Brockenhurst. Read here.
Have you noticed how "Afternoon Tea" is increasingly a Thing? The words themselves conjure up a treat! Much more than a quick sip and bite of cake to fill the gap to supper, in some establishments Afternoon Tea has become the new Lunch: a meal of many courses including not only delectable finger sandwiches, scones with cream & jam and delicate little cakes and pastries, but delicious savoury courses too. Accompanied by copious quantities of whatever type of tea takes your fancy, with a glass of fizz as an optional extra. What a lovely relaxed way to celebrate a special occasion or simply spend time with friends, family or colleagues. It can be easily combined with a walk in the forest, too. A voucher makes a lovely gift (think birthday, anniversary, Valentine and Mother's Day), and if it's all too much to eat in one sitting, most places provide posh doggy bags!
Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa in Brockenhurst is pleased to announce a brand new addition to its mouth-watering afternoon tea menu this summer.
You are cordially invited to join top chef Alex Aitken at the Lymington Seafood Festival. Enjoy unique Pop-Up Dining in the beautiful riverside setting of Bath Road Park, whilst soaking up the atmosphere and entertainment of this year’s Seafood Festival
Whether you are a small group wanting to share a big party atmosphere with other groups and offices, looking for a private Christmas party venue or considering something a little bit different for a change, there are some fabulous venues, offers and options available to you in and around the New Forest for Christmas 2022. These are not just open to businesses - gather together a handful of your best friends for a great night out!
Here we bring you our local favourites, highly recommended venues for festive party nights and Christmas celebrations. Whether you're looking for a venue for a large corporate party, a table at a shared festive event, a more intimate Christmas dinner or something completely wacky for a change, read on!
There are also plenty of ideas in our Events Calendar. And to keep up to speed with local events and news, subscribe for free to our Weekly What's On newsletter which is emailed every Friday. Don't miss out!!
Brockenhurst's iconic hotel has been hosting parties to remember since the 1800’s! The festive-meets-apres-ski Lodge Kitchen & Bar is open daily in December until 11pm, with a DJ playing festive favourites and sing-along classics every Friday and Saturday during dinner to get you up and dancing. Christmas Fest kicks off on Friday 25th November with a LIVE Michael Bublé tribute act, a show packed full of Bublé favourites, from soulful singalongs to big band classics.
Exclusive use and shared Christmas parties are now available to book at the Balmer Lawn Hotel: start the evening at 7 pm with a drink on arrival (earlier drinks receptions also possible), then enjoy a decadent three-course meal followed by tea and coffee and stollen. Dance the night away to DJ entertainment until midnight. Balmer Lawn Christmas parties start from £57 per person, which includes half a bottle of wine. Stay the night afterwards (ask about the special rates available!) and enjoy the use of the leisure facilities and a delicious cooked breakfast, the perfect remedy for the night before.
More information and book your event
More information and book your event
Make up for lost time and celebrate the Festive Season in style! Christmas provides the perfect opportunity for an office party or a gathering of friends. If the team's diaries clash over evening celebrations, then how about considering a festive lunch instead? To make a really special team event, combine it with something a little different - read on for some fantabulous ideas!
Gather with friends, family, and colleagues for the ultimate in delectable festive dining this Christmas, at Chewton Glen. Visit The Dining Room from 26th November onwards and scintillate your seasonal senses with a finely curated festive lunch, indulge in a 5-course evening extravaganza, or opt for a fabulously festive afternoon tea, with plenty of fizz and bonhomie guaranteed.
More information and book your event
Lime Wood really is a great party venue, offering a personal, relaxed house party getaway; with private dining spaces that can seat from 8 up to 16. Chefs Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder will do the cooking, pulling together their much-admired signature styles into an indulgent Forest Feast. Sample Christmas Menu: £75 per person for lunch or £85 per person for dinner. For something extra special, book the Kitchen Table for eight and enjoy a fun sharing menu.
More information and book your event
Rhinefield House Hotel will organise your private festive party nights in the run-up to Christmas, providing all the key elements to make your Christmas party memorable and fun - great food, great music and a wide range of drinks packages for pre-selection, so the Christmas spirit can start the moment you arrive. Private party nights include a welcome drink on arrival, a 3-course festive dinner, coffee or tea and mince pies and a disco until midnight. £65 per person (minimum of 60 guests). Put the taxi organising to one side and stay overnight!
More information and book your event
Make up for lost time and celebrate the Festive Season in style at the historic 13th century Abbey Domus, the perfect location for a Disco Ball. Gather your friends and colleagues, put your party outfit on and enjoy the Sparkling Spectacular where a warm welcome, good times, excellent food and a stunning setting bring out the very best of the much-missed party season. Alternatively, you are warmly invited to an Edwardian Christmas Evening at the historic Palace House with captivating trees, a roaring log fire, period costumes and a sumptuous banquet with a harp or carols capturing the opulence of a Christmastime gone by.
More information and book your event
Perched on the clifftop at Barton-on-Sea, Pebble Beach offers splendid lunchtime sea views towards the Needles and Isle of Wight and a welcoming festive atmosphere for dinner. Choose an intimate party in the Penthouse, a dinner party in the main restaurant or dinner in the warm and cosy Winter Lodge Bar. 3-course pre-Christmas menu £30.00 per person or 2 courses for £26.95 per person (pre-orders required)
More information about Pebble Beach, including booking details
Groups looking for a family-friendly Christmas celebration should look no further than New Park Manor in Brockenhurst. Private dining for small groups: expect fine cuisine, impeccable hospitality and a bespoke approach. Oodles of charm with festive decorations and atmosphere.
More information and book your event
The Cornwallis Suite at the South Lawn Hotel is available for exclusive-use private parties for 50 up to 130 people. Eat, drink and be merry, followed by your own entertainment. Private hire is available for lunch, late afternoon or in the evening up until midnight, from £30 per person for a 3-course meal with a glass of wine, coffee and mince pies. For smaller groups, the festive menu in the Cedar Tree is available for lunch or dinner (Monday to Saturday). The Party Season Menu is available as either 2 courses (£24.50 per person) or 3 courses (£28 per person). Another option is festive ‘High Tea’ is available Monday to Saturday from 3.30-5.00pm. £19.50 per person.
More information and book your event
The Larder is hosting Tapas Evenings every Thursday and Friday - if you’ve not yet sampled chef Karl’s delicious tapas then you’re in for a treat! Gather friends and colleagues for a fun evening in the warm and atmospheric weatherproofed outside area and be transported to the Med! 6pm until 9pm, perfect for those who prefer an early night - or continue for drinks afterwards to one of Lymington’s many superb hostelries (we recommend the Bosun’s Chair!)
Find out more about Tapas Evenings in our Events Calendar!
How about a private chef experience or a cookery school party?! James Martin and his brigade have created a venue that is all about enjoying and creating food. Impress your family and friends by learning how to cook delicious dishes or celebrate important milestones together with a feast that you'll never forget. Find out more and book here.
For a more casual experience, The Kitchen utilises the best winter produce to create signature dishes combined together in delicious 3-course lunch or dinner set menus. So gather your friends, family or colleagues for the ultimate in relaxed festive dining. Lunch is available from Saturday 26th November to 24th December 2022. Dinner is available from Saturday 26th November to 23rd December 2022.
Everyone likes a fancy meal in a nice restaurant, but why not try something different for this year's Christmas party? Enjoy a ‘Team Huddle Day’ with New Forest Activities. Combine fire lighting in the bushcraft camp followed by archery, BattleZone or High Ropes. Based in Beaulieu in the heart of the New Forest, the New Forest Activities team will help you to plan a Christmas party to remember!
Enjoy a change from a traditional festive menu with a gathering at EatPIZZA, where authentic wood-fired artisan pizza is the name of the game! Rumour has it that a new ‘Christmas’ themed pizza will be coming soon to tempt your tastebuds! EatPIZZA has space for 18-26 downstairs for private dining, available for reservation (except Fridays and Saturdays) Private parties for less than 18 people are also possible (an additional charge of £100 will apply).
Find out more about EatPIZZA including contact details for bookings.
You’ll need to book well in advance at the multi-award-winning Rivaaz in Lymington, where you’ll find a modern and fresh approach to fine Indian cuisine. Rivaaz is the ancient Sanskrit word for ‘tradition’ and it is with this in mind that the menus have been crafted, bringing innovative ideas to traditional recipes, using authentic Indian spices to create unique flavours. Rivaaz is not your typical Indian restaurant, funky music plays in the background while you indulge in deliciously cooked Indian delicacies. Top tip: book your office gathering for January if you can’t get a table before Christmas!
Find out more about Rivaaz including contact details for bookings.
Come and check out Lymington’s very own microbrewery – housed in a beautiful oak-framed extension attached to the pub! The Monkey Brewhouse is now producing freshly brewed cask and keg beer, available on tap in the pub - perfect for sampling during your Christmas celebration. Enjoy a full-blown festive feast, a private party or a cosy dinner by the crackling fire. The Monkey Brewhouse Christmas menu can be preordered: £24 for two courses, or £30 for three (£30 deposit required to secure the table)
Find the menu here and click here for contact details.
Enjoy picturesque views of the Lymington River and the Solent Shore over lunch - and a great atmosphere in the evening! Festive Christmas lunch and dinner is available at The Haven from 25th November to 24th December: 2 courses £32.95, 3 courses £39.95. Come early and enjoy a mulled wine by the fire, you can even bring the dog and the team will find you a cosy table in the snug – just let them know when you book. Booking essential!
Enjoy an informal gathering with excellent food at this traditional 18th-century pub with a cosy bar, low beamed ceilings and log fires. Expect fantastic original, seasonal, locally sourced produce and a warm welcome. More details about the Christmas menu to follow soon.
More information about The Gun Inn.
The deservedly popular Turfcutters Arms in East Boldre offers a superb Christmas menu (from 1st December) in cosy, fireside informality at a brilliant price. Don’t miss the Turf’s legendary Christmas Pie! Festive menu: 2 courses £22.95 and 3 courses £27.95.
View the Turf's Christmas Menu
The Bosun's Chair provides a great atmosphere for an informal Christmas gathering, just a short stroll from Lymington High Street. More details about the Christmas menu to follow soon.
More information about The Bosun's Chair.
Not yet discovered this cosy village inn and restaurant in the heart of Sway, a stone's throw from the station? The 2 and 3-course Christmas menu is available from 15th November (2 courses £22.95 and 3 courses £29.95) Parties above 8 people will be required to leave a £10 deposit per person.
View the Silver Hind's Christmas Menu
A delicious Christmas lunch with all the trimmings is available at Steph’s kitchen at Fairweathers Garden Centre in Beaulieu between Monday 28th November and Friday 23rd December. Highly recommended home-cooked food with vegetables from their ‘Patrick’s Patch’ over the road. Choose traditional turkey or see our specials board for available meat and vegetarian options. We have a range of starters available and amazing desserts along with wines and beers to compliment your meal. £5 deposit per person when you book your table.
More information and book here.
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A quick debrief on a most enjoyable lunchtime, which we spent on a dull and windy day in the light and airy, comfortable raised dining area of the welcoming Silver Hind Inn in the heart of Sway.
In a word, the Silver Hind is perfect for lunchtime. Put simply, most people who want to be able to eat again in the evening don't want a big lunch!
And between the starters on the main menu, the "Light Bites" menu and the Daily Specials, there are plenty of tempting alternatives between which to choose.
We chose to sit at the rear of the dining area, up a set of stairs and close to the window, which was just perfect. A "room with a view" in several directions, comfortably warm and cool at the same time and a good sense of light despite the weather being less than pleasant on the day of our visit.
From the "Light Bites" menu one of us chose one of the three "wrap" options which was recommended by Faye: the confit duck with hoisin sauce, cucumber and lettuce, priced at an extremely reasonable £8. The other opted for the chicken & bacon caesar salad which comes with a soft boiled egg, croutons and shaved parmesan and costs £15.
We also shared a portion of chips - always a smart move when you're assessing a place and these passed the "test" perfectly in fact - thin but not sticks, with just the right amount of salt already added (so much better and usually means less salt is actually consumed!)
The puddings all at £7 looked extremely tempting, especially the orange and grand marnier creme brulee, but we resisted - remembering as above that we needed to be able to eat supper too!
(The Silver Hind's Platinum Card discount scheme means you get 10% off these prices: drink included in the discount too.)
Everyone we met - Tup, Faye and Chloe - was very friendly and helpful, we felt very much at home and in our comfort zone.
I must add that for the less mobile the disabled access (and toilet!) is excellent, and there's another choice of tables at entrance and bar level.
Also that the main customer toilets are quality! Nearly took a photo in fact to show you, but thought perhaps not quite the thing!
The staff were so friendly and everything felt so relaxed, I'd have no hesitation in eating alone in this welcoming place.
Raising money weekly for local charitiesEvery Wednesday the Silver Hind holds a fun quiz night which is becoming Raising money weekly for local charities
Mindful of its central village location the team has decided to host a welcoming fun bbq for all comers on Friday 3 June; exact time to be confirmed and will be added to the Silver Hind website.
Free drinks for dads on Father's Day
There will be complimentary drinks for dads on Father's Day which this year is
Sway Carnival Week runs from 2 to 10 July and the Silver Hind will be supplying the beer for the Carnival Party on the evening of Saturday 9th. Keep an eye on the Events Calendar for the lowdown about Sway Carnival Week.
Parking can be an issue in Sway at certain times of the day but not usually at lunchtime nor in the evening when you're likely to be visiting the Silver Hind. And, there's always the back up option to park at the Jubilee Fields which is only a few short minutes' walk away.
If you'd like to be kept in the loop about upcoming local events with Lymington.com's Weekly What's On e-newsletter and don't already receive it just click here!
Well known as of the most iconic buildings in the New Forest National Park, the Balmer Lawn is perfectly situated on the edge of the Forest yet within walking distance of Brockenhurst village and mainline train station.
It's a great place to start and/or finish a New Forest walk, with the choice of open forest or a stroll around the nearby Pignal Hill Inclosure (which is also great for cycling!) Combine with some time at the Balmer Lawn Hotel, enjoying lunch in the 2AA rosette Beresfords restaurant or a cosy afternoon tea.
Park in the spacious car park and on entering the Balmer Lawn you'll find a tasteful blend of contemporary and traditional décor, ensuring the perfect combination of old-fashioned values with a modern twist, combined with a country atmosphere too - with wellies lined up at the front door for guests to use and a warm welcome to dogs as well as their humans!
You'll immediately get a sense of the feel and flavour of this lovely place. If you then turn to the right and along the corridor you'll find a wonderful selection of old photographs and other items which tell a long and fascinating history of both the hotel itself, originially built as a hunting lodge in the mid-1800s, and special, hugely popular part of the New Forest.
This family-friendly and dog-friendly hotel, restaurant and spa is privately-owned and renowned for providing the highest levels of customer service. Little surprise therefore that the Balmer Lawn team has won multiple awards, including 4AA Silver Stars and the New Forest Brilliance in Business 2019 awards for best in “Training and Development” and “Business of the Year."
Beresfords is the award-winning 2AA rosette restaurant at Balmer Lawn, where you'll find fabulous seasonal dishes selected by the Chef from the finest of local produce. Open every day for lunch and dinner, any dietary requirement can be catered for provided notice is given, and there is an excellent children's menu.
We particularly love the new Sunday Lunch menu - perfect to combine with a dog walk on the Forest!
At this time of year when cold, rainy and blustery outside, what could be better than snuggling down after a bracing walk to enjoy a sumptuous, traditional afternoon tea in the cosy lounge?
You'll love the delicate selection presented delicately on traditional country crockery, which includes finger sandwiches, melt-in-the-mouth scones with clotted cream and jam, then homemade cakes and biscuits. Traditional and elegant yet relaxed - it's a truly delicious way to spend an afternoon with friends and family.
March Special Offer! From 1-31 March to 31st March (not including Saturdays) when booking Bed & Breakfast in a Superior or Luxury room, you'll receive a complimentary 25 minute Spa Treatment. Find the latest special offers here!.
Chris and Alison Wilson have owned the Balmer Lawn for over 23 years and have invested heavily with continual improvements. For the last two years they have been working on an expansion scheme to create an attractive two storey building that uses a lot of natural materials and will enhance the look and feel of the Hotel. The scheme allows for many new private terraces to the function rooms and Saltus Spa and the landscaping incorporated a dry riverbed feature and forest play area for younger children. An application for planning permission has now been submitted.
"This application is crucial to the long-term viability of the Balmer Lawn, with ever increasing pressure from rising costs the current size of the Hotel is not economically viable as a single unit. This development will secure the long-term sustainability of the Hotel", said Chris. "Environmental impact considerations have been built into the scheme with a living roof plus solar and photovoltaic panels to reduce energy consumption. There is also an extensive landscaping and planting scheme including well over 100 new trees."
He added: "Over recent years the New Forest has lost close to 100 hotel bedrooms with the closure of the Watersplash Hotel in Brockenhurst and the Lyndhurst Park Hotel in Lyndhurst plus others. The new 38 additional bedrooms at this iconic property will go some way to replace these. The Hotel currently employs 60 full-time staff, this will increase to 72 and seasonal staff will increase by around 10 employees in the summer period."
What price perfection? Whatever, it's worth every penny!
In May 2022, for our first visit back to Chewton Glen since Covid and lockdowns, we were fortunate enough to be treated also to warm spring weather which made it possible to sit on the dining terrace in the sunshine.
First, as is customary, full of anticipation we breathed in the country park surroundings as we drove down the main driveway and parked easily in the gravelled guest car park - which offers generously sized parking spaces and from which it is just a short stroll to the main entrance area and front door.
Then we stopped as in previous visits to admire the fabulous and always seasonal floral display in the hallway, before walking on down to the front of the hotel where the comfortably spaced, beautifully set tables in the large, light and airy dining room enhance the sense of anticipation.
Greeted by Richard and his team we then chose our table on the terrace where a few others had also opted to make the most of the sunshine. Which gave us literally a room with a most delightful view, of the south facing sloping gardens furnished with comfortable sunbeds where a few brave guests were tentatively baring a little white skin to the afternoon sunshine, and the outdoor pool into which some were even taking a dip, on down to the stream and the woods beyond. You'd never think you were sitting in a garden not far from the main road between Highcliffe and New Milton. The parkland surroundings are enveloping and the sense is of luxuriating in the heart of quintessential English countryside!
Based on changes trialled and since adopted at sister hotel Cliveden, Afternoon Tea at Chewton Glen is now served 12 noon to 4pm. In other words, we can enjoy the occasion at lunchtime if it suits and we prefer, which is in fact what we two ladies chose to do and which made it potentially possible to make space for supper later!
(Lunch is still served in the dining room on weekends, but on weekdays guests now take lunch if they wish in the bar area or the Kitchen.)
The starting touch, the amuse bouche of Warm Old Winchester and truffle literally melted in our mouths and somehow suits lunch better than teatime too.
The perfectly prepared no crust sandwich soldiers (one each of smoked ham and mustard, Flambards egg and smoked salmon) were delicious and the coronation chicken with golden raisins brioche sublime.
There is a range of Afternoon Tea options including the one we enjoyed and I think I'd recommend to make this an ultra special occasion for only a relatively small additional expense, it includes a glass of sparkling English Nyetimber. In fact we were even offered top up glasses - which although tempting, you'll be relieved to hear our driver declined.
This morning's announcement of the surprise official pudding for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee as a lemon and Swiss roll amaretti trifle couldn't be timelier - all the comments I've seen or heard so far are about its uplifting, lemony twist.
Chewton Glen's new "Tregothnan" (home made British!) tea selection includes four black teas, a green and five herbals - quite some decision making to be accomplished.
Opting for the Lemon Verbena tea and choosing the homemade lemon curd which was offered as an alternative to jam with the thick clotted cream and freshly baked scones, I discovered almost by chance a completely new and zingy flavour which I would definitely choose again.
Following those with the Amalfi lemon meringue tart before moving on to the sweeter cakes (matcha green tea and apricot, mascarpone praline and lemon eclair) was a good decision for me, too. But obviously that's a personal preference.
(Chewton Glen will be offering a very special Afternoon Tea for Platinum Jubilee Weekend - just saying!)
It's such a lovely extra touch that what you cannot eat, together with a final slice of cake from the trolley, you can take home - for later or for your family to sample! And even in separate boxes!
Afternoon tea whether taken at lunchtime or teatime is an opportunity to take special time out with someone or someones. This opens up the possibility of conversations for which we don't usually make time, for times when we do actually have time, to remember, reflect, consider, discuss, matters of importance to our relationships whatever they may be.
Our own special conversation included memories, different childhoods, parents, and other subjects we don’t normally have time nor feel inclined to talk about properly, yet which are good for the soul to visit occasionally. I can only recommend taking time out to enjoy and appreciate this treat fully.
Treat friends and family to the quintessential English custom of a purely indulgent Afternoon Tea in a beautifully idyllic setting. Served in The Dining Room (12pm-4pm).
Royal Southampton Yacht Club is one of the County’s longest established Royal Yacht Clubs and also one of the friendliest, up to date and most efficiently run sailing clubs in the country.
Having recently closed its Southampton clubhouse the club has recently been putting all its effort and investment into its very special “Gins” Clubhouse which sits in the most wonderful location on Beaulieu River between Bucklers Hard and the river mouth, on a bend which affords spectacular views down the river, over towards Southampton, across the Solent and right across to Cowes.
When the weather is glorious there is no lovelier location we can think of.
But even in inclement conditions the superb management and catering team at Gins will give you an exceptional welcome into its inviting bar and excellent restaurant, with freshly-cooked, locally-sourced meals prepared by the club’s in-house chef.
New for winter 2019-20 a warm welcome is extended to non members as well as members. And lunch with friends after a winter dogwalk is a great option for a first visit. Sunday Roast is a particularly spectacular feast of excellent "home cooked" food and extremely good value too - as regulars will testify!
Gins is also the perfect place for a private party and again this applies also for non members: the club can comfortably accommodate a large group and can entirely tailor an event to suit, whether that be a seated/plated meal or a more social buffet. A "bowl food" option can work particularly well as it’s small portions of a complete dish and also allows guests to mingle. Or if preferred a more formal/traditional format can be arranged with a seated menu and nibbles/canapes and drinks on arrival.
More information about Gins Clubhouse with opening times is here. Contact Lauren to book a table or to discuss your party requirements, or if you prefer you can complete the booking form here.
The specialness of the location cannot be exaggerated but it's hard to do justice to it without experiencing it. Meanwhile though, do take a virtual tour of this fabulous clubhouse and have a look at the view yourself!
It's a pleasure to eat out sometimes over the Christmas period - give the host and hostess a break and everybody a chance to have a really good chat while someone else does the cooking. Lots of our favourite New Forest restaurants and pubs have special festive special menus for Christmas suitable for all celebratory occasions with family or friends. And some of these restaurants and pubs are also in brilliant locations either with their own grounds to explore or with fabulous winter walks close by - another essential ingredient of family Christmas time! Read on - and see also Christmas Party Venues for larger gatherings.
Our Christmas in Lymington and the New Forest 2019 provides key dates locally over the festive period. There are also plenty of ideas in our Events Calendar. And to keep up to speed with local events and news, subscribe for free for our Weekly What's On newsletter which is emailed every Friday. Don't miss out!!
The Terrace, Montagu Arms Hotel - BeaulieuA hidden gem overlooking a stunning garden, you'll find a warm welcome, exceptional service and superb cusine. The winner of a number of awards, including Best Loved Hotel in the South 2016, Hampshire Life Best Hotel Restaurant and one of The Sunday Times' Top 100 UK Restaurants. Also awarded 3AA Rosettes for its food.
Enjoy a Christmas festive lunch or a yuletide afternoon tea in luxury. For the ultimate dining experience enjoy the exquisite 5 course Festive Tasting Menu created by Head Chef Matthew Whitfield. On Christmas Day, enjoy a traditional, four course Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Keep the festivities going with a traditional lunch at The Terrace on Boxing Day. Or celebrate in style at the Boxing Night Masked Ball.
Winter walk: walk from the Montagu Arms along the Beaulieu River to Buckler's Hard.
The Dining Room, Chewton Glen - New MiltonAt the AA Hotel of the Year, The Dining Room is light and airy with picturesque views of the Chewton Glen estate by day and offers warm refinement in the evening. From Saturday 30 November until Christmas Eve, gather family, friends and colleagues for a relaxed festive lunch, which includes three tempting courses plus tea, coffee and mince pies to finish or for an impressive festive five-course dinner, which includes a glass of fizz on arrival and concludes with tea, coffee and spiced macarons.
Alternatively, enjoy a festive traditional afternoon tea including a glass of Sipsmith London Cup gin and quinessentially English spread with a Christmassy twist - such as chocolate and chestnut bouche noelle, cinnamon and golden sultana scones and turkey, cranberry and chestnut stuffing sandwiches.
Winter walk: take a stroll across the Chewton Glen estate to the beach at Highcliffe for some soul-replenishing fresh air!
Hartnet, Holder & Co, Lime Wood, LyndhurstAt Lime Wood's relaxed and stylish Italian restaurant, Chefs Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder’s food comes with the much loved Italian approach to eating - where sharing, atmosphere and provenance is everything. Lime Wood provides a personal, relaxed house party getaway, with private dining spaces that can seat from 8 up to 50. Choose between a Christmas Lunch or Dinner menu, Italian Sharing Feast or a Kitchen Table Supper. Find out more about Christmas at Lime Wood here.
Winter walk: wander from Lime Wood directly into the New Forest National Park, take in the Pondhead Inclosure or stroll to Bolten's Bench and Lyndhurst.
Cambium, Careys Manor - BrockenhurstRelaxed refinement is the name of the game at Cambium, 3AA rosette flagship restaurant at Careys Manor. Unwind in chic yet comfy surroundings and experience delicious cuisine inspired by the enchanted New Forest. The food, service and sommelier are all exceptional - as are the finishing touches.
Enjoy a festive lunch or dinner at Cambium between 1 and 17 December. Find Cambium festive menu here. A few tables remain for the 'Christmas Ball' party nights on selected dates in December or indulge in a relaxing and refined festive afternoon tea.
Winter walk: walk from the hotel directly into the New Forest and explore!
Rhinefield House Hotel - BrockenhurstNestled deep within the New Forest this manor house displays a blend of Tudor and Gothic architecture, providing a magical backdrop for your festive celebrations. The 2AA Rosette fine dining Armada Restaurant offers an unfussy menu of classic British dishes with a contemporary twist and local provenance. Enjoy a Festive Sunday Lunch during December or Festive Afternoon Tea from 30 November to 7 January.
On Christmas Day, lunch will be served within the Alhambra and adjoining dining room after a mid-morning birds of prey show with hot chocolate, followed by Champagne and canapés.
Winter Walk: stroll from the hotel onto the beautiful Ornamental Drive, there are four routes you can take ranging from 3 to 7 miles.
New Park Manor - BrockenhurstThis lovely family-friendly hotel in an idyllic forest location tucked away behind the Polo Club and showground at New Park, welcomes locals to share its cosy, comfy sitting areas and relaxed dining room.
Afternoon tea is a particular feature and special event, and non-residents are also welcome to lunch informally and fine dine in the evenings. The service is friendly and children are very welcome. Fresh ingredients are all sourced locally. Find New Park Manor's festive menu here.
Winter walk: explore the gardens of this former New Forest hunting lodge, or venture out into the neighbouring New Forest surrounding the hotel.
Beresfords, Balmer Lawn Hotel - BrockenhurstBeresfords is the elegant, award-winning 2AA rosette restaurant within the Balmer Lawn Hotel. Throughout December, the Balmer Lawn Hotel will be serving a delicious choice of either two or three course festive lunch in their elegant Beresford restaurant with views over the garden to the New Forest beyond. Find out more about Christmas at the Balmer Lawn here.
Winter walk: wonderful walks into the New Forest directly behind the Balmer Lawn - head out and explore!
The Bell Inn - BrookThis cosy 18th century coaching inn near Bramshaw Golf Club offers rustic charm, a warm welcome and seriously good food - they are understandably proud of their 1AA rosette and AA star inn recognition. Children and dogs are really welcome. From 1-23 December, gather friends, family or colleagues for yuletide celebrations: group parties and more intimate gatherings are all possible with a 3 course festive menu from £26.95 per person.
On Christmas Day book in for a hassle-free lunch; 5 course feast including festive crackers, coffee and sweet treats. And don't miss the New Year's Eve party which includes cocktails and homemade bar nibbles, 5 course dinner plus cheeseboard and evening disco - plus champagne to toast in 2019.
Winter walks: a trip to the Rufus Stone makes an ideal way to walk off lunch, being well signposted from The Bell Inn and a pleasant half hour stroll along a winding lane.
The Haven Bar and Restaurant - LymingtonWith glorious views straight down Lymington River and across the Solent to the Isle of Wight this has to be the prime spot in Lymington for coffee, lunch, tea and dinner! The Haven has a wonderful atmosphere; relaxed friendliness and fun combined with excellent cuisine and great service - what more could be wished for this Christmas! The Haven's Christmas menu is available throughout December and must be pre-booked. The popular Haven Christmas Party Nights are great for groups of all sizes, call to find remaining availability. The Haven bar will be open for drinks on Christmas Day from 11am - 2pm.
If you're looking to escape somewhere relaxing on Boxing Day or New Year's Day, book now for the Haven's Boxing Day Brunch and New Year's Day Brunch - both the perfect remedy following a big night! A few tickets remain for the Haven's infamous New Year's Eve party (this year with Hawaiian theme!).
Winter walk: perfectly located for a walk around the 'sea wall' - the Lymington to Keyhaven nature reserve is a SSSI and wonderful for clearing the cobwebs at every time of year. Highly recommended!
Stanwell House Hotel - LymingtonA stylish boutique style hotel in a historic building in the centre of Lymington, with newly refurbished 2AA rosette restaurant, Etain and informal Burcher & Co bistro restaurant. Enjoy Christmas drinks in the Drydock cocktail bar, afternoon tea in the airy conservatory, lunch or dinner in one of the restaurants - you'll receive a very warm welcome at any time of day and evening. This Christmas, Stanwell House have party nights and festive lunches throughout December, Christmas Day lunch, Boxing Day lunch and a spectacular New Years Eve dinner. Find full details of festive menus here.
Winter walk: stroll around Lymington, down to the Quay, around the High Street and historic side streets.
La Perle - Milford on SeaA gorgeous little restaurant in the heart of Milford on Sea which serves simply stunning food! Highly commended by the Good Food Guide, La Perle chef Sam has appeared on BBC Professional Master Chef and trained under Raymond Blanc. In the run up to Christmas, get together with family or friends at La Perle for a delicious Christmas lunch (Wednesday to Saturday) or Christmas dinner (Tuesday to Thursday). On Fridays in December join La Perle for a party night with live music.
Winter walk: La Perle overlooks Milford on Sea village green and is only five minutes walk from the seaside - perfect for a blustery walk before or after eating!
The Cedar Tree, South Lawn Hotel - Milford on SeaThis historic hotel in its own lovely grounds is also in a convenient location on the main road into Milford with ample adjacent parking. Dining is in the recently totally refurbished Cedar Tree restaurant, with lovely views over the gardens including the stately cedar tree! Good for families and friends and well priced menu. Always gets rave reviews and early booking is highly recommended! Find the Christmas and New Year menus here.
Winter walk: explore the hotel grounds or a few minutes drive from Milford on Sea, where you can wander along the spit to Hurst Castle or along the beach path towards Barton on Sea.
Le Blaireau - BrockenhurstLe Blaireau French bar and bistro in Brockenhurst is part of Careys Manor Hotel and offers an alternative Christmas menu and also Christmas day lunch with delicious French cuisine. It's a great place for families with lots of space and a fun atmosphere. Join a Christmas party at Le Blaireau in the run up to Christmas and escape to Le Blaireau on Christmas Day.
Winter walk: let off steam afterwards at "Brockenhurst Beach" (beside the river!), just along the road and much less crowded in winter!
The Kitchen is a relaxed restaurant with a fantastic cookery school supported by celebrity Chef James Martin. The Christmas Day menu at The Kitchen centres around a sharing platter of tapas treats for all to dip into, as well as all the trimmings for lunch with the family. Enjoy a glass of Champagne on arrival followed by bread and olives, tapas starters for all to share, a main course, dessert and coffee with mince pies.
Winter walk: take a stroll from the Chewton Glen estate to the beach at Highcliffe and take in some fresh sea air!
Zen Garden - BrockenhurstThis unique restaurant, located at Careys Manor SenSpa, offers an authentically Thai dining experience. The Thai chefs serve freshly prepared Thai dishes using organic and locally sourced products where possible. Whether you visit the Zen Garden Restaurant for a 3 course dinner or just a freshly made smoothie, you will find the atmosphere relaxing and friendly. The restaurant offers a range of dishes catering for all tastes. Read our review. Find contact details for Zen Garden.
Winter treat: combine your visit to Zen Garden with a sneaky visit to SenSpa - just the thing to calm Mother Christmas and relax Father Christmas!
The 'Best Asian Restaurant on the South Coast 2018' and winner of many other awards, escape to Lymington's fabulous Rivaaz for fine indian cuisine this Christmas. You'll always receive a very warm welcome from Shah and the team, with a super atmosphere. Takeaways are also a popular option if you just cannot drag yourself away from the fire or the box sets! Find contact details for Rivaaz.
Winter walk: head for a wander down to Church Lane and discover the famous Crinkle Crankles on the way to Woodside Gardens.
Koh Thai Tapas - LymingtonExperience the irresistibly rich and authentic flavours of Thai cuisine this Christmas, with the delicious festive menu at Koh Thai Tapas. This Christmas enjoy a Two Course Thai Tasting Menu at £26.50 per person, or as it’s the season for over indulgence there is also an option to upgrade to £30 and you’ll get a pudding- not to mention any booze lovers out there if you pre-order 5 bottles of wine for your table, you can also get one for free!
This is a really convenient destination especially if you live or are staying in the centre of Lymington, and offers something a little different for the tastebuds over the Christmas break - perhaps especially when you've had enough of turkey and tradition! Find contact details for Koh Thai Tapas.
Winter walk: take a leisurely Christmas stroll around the alleyways and courtyards of Lymington afterwards, you'll be amazed to discover all the little nooks and crannies and see the backs of the historic buildings of the town centre - which you never normally notice marching up and down the High Street!
Non members of Royal Southampton Yacht Club are invited as well to relax in the tranquil setting at its stunning Gins Clubhouse, and to enjoy delicious meals and unbeatable views of Beaulieu River. This Christmas at Gins Clubhouse there is a Christmas Carvery, with the the Beaulieu Band and a visit from a ‘special visitor’ for the children.
Winter Walk: take in the beauty of the Beaulieu River or stop at Buckler's Hard or the village of Beaulieu for a historic leisurely stroll.
The Turfcutters Arms Pub - East Boldre A roaring fire, warm welcome and cosy atmosphere always greet you at the Turfcutters. Their Christmas Menu is being served from 2 to 30 December and is fantastic value at just £17.95 for 2 courses and £21.95 for 3 courses. The Turfs is the perfect pitstop for refreshment after a walk, dogs are welcome (children too!) and will be open on Christmas Day.
Winter walk: being right on the New Forest there are plenty of walk possibilities, including the Beaulieu Letters.
The Bosun's Chair - LymingtonThis former coach house near to Lymington station is atmospheric and cosy in the winter months. Still the place to watch sport and unwind with friends, the cosy and friendly ambience with good pub food is a winner and definitely worth checking out if you haven't already done so. Christmas parties and group bookings are welcome. Get in touch to book your table now!
Winter walk: situated so near Lymington Town station, the Bosun's Chair is the perfect start for a stroll along the Lymington River and across the river to the Walhampton Memorial.
Montys Inn - BeaulieuThe olde worlde surroundings of historic Beaulieu Village create a wonderful Christmassy atmosphere, it’s as though this village were designed especially for Christmas! And then the cosy atmosphere at Monty's Inn (part of the Montagu Arms Hotel) sets the scene for a relaxed yet classy Christmas get-together with friends, family or colleagues. A special Christmas 3 course lunch or dinner with a selection of craft ales, locally distilled Gins and an extensive wine list is on offer throughout December (details of festive menu here).
Winter walk: a stroll along the Beaulieu River or around the village will take you back to times gone by.
The 'café' at Fairweather's Garden Centre is a popular place to eat, with its warm and friendly welcome and home cooked food. From warm scones straight out of the oven to hearty soups, everything is freshly prepared. Home cooked Christmas lunches will be served at Steff’s Kitchen from Monday 2 to Sunday 22 December and when you book in advance, you will receive festive Christmas crackers and delicious chocolates. Details of Lunchtime Christmas Menu here.
Winter walk: a gentle wander around the garden centre and Patrick's Patch opposite!
The Monkey House - LymingtonThe Monkey House commands a strategic position at the gateway to Lymington from Brockenhurst. There is parking next to the pub and the Monkey House can always be relied upon to provide a warm proprietor's welcome, carefully selected always delicious menu options, friendly professional service and not forgetting the crisply laundered white napkins.
Winter walk: enjoy some fresh air, let the children play and the dog have a run, beforehand or afterwards at Buckland Rings.
Updated 15 November 2019
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