‘Low-key country inn’ in New Forest named among top 100 pubs in Britain

The Horse & Groom in the village of Woodgreen, which is close to Fordingbridge, was featured in the list from the Daily Mail.

Discussing the creation of the list, they wrote: “The Great British pub, embedded in our culture for centuries and almost entirely unique to our corner of the world, comes in many guises, from village locals that are the beating heart of rural communities, to Michelin-starred city boozers.

“The ones you can’t forget? They’ll woo you in with a pretty beer garden in summer, and a crackling fire and comfy chair in winter, while serving up local beers and hearty fare.”

They consulted pub experts, big names in the UK’s food and drink industry and analysed reviews to find their top 100 pubs.

The full list of Britain’s top 100 pubs can be found on the Daily Mail website here.

What was said about The Horse & Groom?

The Horse & Groom was praised for how it highlights local beers as well as its food and beautiful surrounding scenery.

The Daily Mail wrote: “Amidst the leafy splendour of the New Forest, The Horse & Groom sits in the little village of Woodgreen. 

“This low-key country inn has ponies, pigs and cows grazing all around and food that might fill you up for a week – try the sausage ring and burnt buttered mash. 

“It’s also an enthusiastic supporter of showcasing beers by emerging local breweries.” 

Additionally, the pub is dog-friendly and even offers treats, water and blankets to them.

In terms of what pint to go for at The Horse & Groom, the newspaper recommends Colt Pixie IPA from Dead Duck Brewery.

Alongside that, the pub is also well-received by patrons as a whole, with it earning a 4.5/5 score on Tripadvisor from 236 reviews.

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One person wrote: “This is a friendly village pub, popular with locals, good choice of beer and a large garden with tents. Great food with far more interesting choices and imaginative dishes than the usual pub fare – I had a good cod loin.”

Another shared: “Great dog friendly pub with a laid back vibe. The food was amazing and so much detail in the presentation. Highly recommend the freshly caught fish and chips and the rump steak.”

Meanwhile, another posted: “Food was outstanding as were the staff. Couldn’t do enough for us or our dogs. Garden had a relaxed vibe and plenty of space. Would have stayed all day and into the night if we didn’t have to drive home. Was gutted to have to leave.”