The historic market town of Fordingbridge is hugely popular with visitors from all over the world, and it’s no wonder, being situated on the beautiful River Avon, with the enchanting woodland walks, miles of open heathland and magnificent coastline of the New Forest right on its doorstep.
There’s a lot to enjoy here, and you might start with a stroll across the medieval bridge and into the High Street to visit the Tourist Information Centre. They’re sure to point you in the direction of the Fordingbridge Museum in King’s Yard, which offers an inspiring introduction to the town and its history. There are lots of independent shops in Fordingbridge too, where you can pick up unique gifts, local produce, books and maps.
The Regal Cinema on the High Street has recently been restored to its Art Deco former glory, and is an absolute must-see; visit for drinks in the evening, and watch a movie with popcorn in one of its coveted 30 seats.
Nearby attractions also include Rockbourne Roman Villa with its astounding mosaics, and Breamore House and Museum, a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, all set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in Cranborne Chase.
The coast at Barton-on-Sea offers safe swimming in its shallower waters and the famous Solent Way begins here too, so if you’re looking for a seaside adventure close to Fordingbridge, it’s only 30 minutes away.
One of the great things about exploring Fordingbridge and the New Forest is that you’re sure to build up a hearty appetite, and there’s nothing more delightful than knowing that when you’re done with adventures for the day, a warm welcome, a table in a stunning location, and a delicious plate of food awaits you in one of the very best restaurants nearby.
Each one of the New Forest Collection hotels places sustainability, and seasonal, locally sourced produce at the heart of every menu, and with so many exceptional ingredients available in this part of the world, that’s great to know.
Sure to please.
If you’ve been for a walk in the woods in your wellies, you, your family and any happy dogs are more than welcome in the laid-back and stylish surroundings of The Drift, the relaxed country pub next to the Beaulieu Inn.
It offers an award-winning menu of modern British classics so whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner, The Drift is sure to please.
Eat outside and choose from the garden menu which is mouthwatering simplicity itself, or dine indoors in the warm, stylish restaurant. Leaves and vegetables from The Drift’s very own gardens bring seasonal freshness and flavours to their lunch and dinner options, with handmade burgers, generous sharing boards, mighty salads (think Hampshire steak, or battered halloumi with quinoa) and great vegetarian and vegan options all extremely popular.
Round off with a delectable dessert and make a super day near Fordingbridge even sweeter.
A very special meal near Fordingbridge
Burley Manor
Then there’s Burley Restaurant within Burley Manor, the gorgeous baronial-style manor house hotel. Take a walk within its breathtaking grounds before settling down to a very special meal here. Our chefs have a real passion for creativity, sustainability and wellbeing and every plate on his modern British menu reflects this. Freshly caught fish, Hampshire sirloin steak, slow-cooked local pork belly and Mediterranean-influenced sharing dishes are all served with seasonal accompaniments.
Not far from Fordingbridge, there’s Forest Lodge in Lyndhurst, an elegant townhouse hotel that proudly hosts 1820, its award-winning grill and brasserie. You can sit out on the terrace when it’s fine, or cosy up in its contemporary indoor spaces – either way, a wonderfully memorable dining experience is in store.
Choose from a range of easy-to-eat small plates, or opt for their grill menu featuring hand-cut prime Hampshire steak and fresh market fish of the day. There are equally tasty vegetarian and vegan dishes too of course, like the gnocchi, spinach and roasted courgette with pistachio and optional gorgonzola.
Afternoon tea here is also a real treat, with a tempting array of savoury and sweet morsels to delight you and your teatime companions.
Another superb restaurant near Fordingbridge is the impressive Bartley Lodge in Cadnam, an historic country house set in eight acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. Choose from an inspiring menu of classic-meets-contemporary favourites, and enjoy your meal inside one of the elegant drawing rooms, the orangery, or outside on the impressive sun terrace.
Highlights include monkfish with celeriac puree and prosciutto to start, whilst large plates include locally sourced steak, freshly caught and pan-fried fish, chicken ballotine with tarragon mousse, and some thoughtful Asian-inspired vegetarian and vegan dishes too.
Plus, firmly establishing Bartley Lodge as one of the best places to eat and drink near Fordingbridge is the fact that, as in all the New Forest Collection restaurants, the cellars here are generously stocked with the very best from local brewers and distillers, and some outstanding wine from renowned vineyards.
Fordingbridge is easily accessible, with a direct link to London along the M3, and nearby Salisbury offering train line connections to all major destinations.
Burley Manor is just 20 minutes away from Fordingbridge along the A338. Bartley Lodge is a 23-minute drive along the B3078, and the 1820 near Lyndhurst only a few minutes more. Finally, The Drift, near Beaulieu Inn, is only 35 minutes away on the B3078.
What’s clear is that with all New Forest Collection restaurants within easy reach, the only difficulty you’ll encounter as part of a fantastic day in Fordingbridge will be in choosing which one to visit first.
