Our Favourite Dog Friendly Pubs in the New Forest

If you’re planning a New Forest break with your four-legged friend, it’s a dream destination. Not just for woodland walks and spotting ponies, but for fantastic dog friendly pubs visitors will love.

After a long stroll through ancient woodland, few things beat sinking into a cosy New Forest pub with a pint and good food while your dog settles in beside you.

We’ve picked the pubs in this guide based on:

• How warmly they welcome the four-legged – think carefully placed water bowls and dog treats
• Garden and outdoor space – perfect for energetic pups
• Quality and variety of pub food – menus piled high with traditional fair and interesting takes on the classics
• Interiors and overall ambience. We’re after cosy corners, sloping ceilings, roaring fireplaces, original features and nods to the building’s heritage

Why visit dog friendly New Forest pubs?

The New Forest National Park is packed with historic villages, scenic trails and welcoming pubs that love handing out ear scratches to dogs. Many of the watering holes in the area are not only dog friendly, they’ll go the extra mile with water bowls, treats and outdoor seating for muddy paws.

Whether you’re looking for dog friendly pubs near Lyndhurst or a traditional country inn in Burley or Fordingbridge, there’s a host of great choices to enjoy with your pup. Here are eight of the best.

1. New Forest Inn – Lyndhurst

One of the most-loved New Forest pubs – and raved about by dog owners – this 18th century inn is perfect after long, roaming walks. Water bowls and homemade dog treats are available, and there’s even direct access to forest paths from the pub’s rear garden.

Is the New Forest Inn dog friendly?

Yes. Dogs are welcome throughout the pub and garden, and there’s water and treats for furry guests.

2. The Rockingham Arms – West Wellow

Just outside the heart of the forest, the Rockingham Arms has a large beer garden and welcomes dogs both inside and outside. It’s a gem among the best dog friendly pubs in the New Forest area.

3. The Cartwheel Inn – Whitsbury (Fordingbridge)

A classic country gastropub where dogs are free to join you at any table – ideal for a hearty lunch after a walk. Relaxed, locally sourced cooking reigns supreme.

4. Old Beams Inn – Ringwood

This traditional pub serves seasonal dishes and local ales, with water bowls and dog treats on hand for your furry companion. On Sunday, a roast is a must.

5. The George – Fordingbridge

Situated beside the River Avon, The George goes one step further with a special doggy menu alongside hearty classics for humans. Feeling generous? You can order your dog meaty sausages and locally caught trout, as well as the ‘Doggy Mess’ – a peanut butter, berry and yoghurt delight for fluffy noses to get stuck into.

6. The Drift Pub & Restaurant – Beaulieu Road

A brilliant choice for families and dogs alike, with towels for wet pups, forest views and a children’s play area. From towering burgers to Sunday lunch with all the trimmings, everyone will leave happy.

7. The Bell Inn – Brook

This charming, 4-star dog friendly village pub has a large garden and cosy indoor spaces where dogs are welcome. Book for a hearty, locally procured Sunday lunch after wandering the forest. An independent pub in a former coach house.

8. The Burley Inn

Burley is a must-visit village in the New Forest with multiple dog friendly pubs, including the Burley Inn. Welcoming pet owners and their pups, the inn sits on a former smuggling route and is known for its age-old ties to witchcraft.

Tips for Enjoying Dog Friendly Pubs in the New Forest

Ask ahead – while most pubs are welcoming, checking a pub’s dog policy before you visit helps avoid surprises.

Outdoor seating – pubs with large gardens are especially good for big or muddy dogs after a forest walk.

Forest walks first – plan a scenic walking route (like around Lyndhurst or Burley) before your pub stop to make the most of the New Forest.

Exploring the New Forest with your furry friend(s)?

Whether you’re stomping through ancient woodland, stopping by dog friendly pubs near historic Lyndhurst, or sampling hearty pub grub in Burley, the New Forest has something for every dog lover.

Well-fed and all walked out? Return to a luxury New Forest holiday lodge with your dog. You can bring along up to two of your canine companions to Lovat Parks.

Cheers to good walks, great pubs and wagging tails!

You might also like…

• The ultimate pit stop pub lunches in the New Forest
• The best dog friendly days out in the New Forest
• 10 Tips for taking your dog on holiday