The Oak Inn

New Forest ponies, pigs and deer graze outside this small but perfectly formed former cider house. Behind its bay windows lie a traditional woodburner, antique pine furniture and bric-à-brac galore. Well-kept Fuller's ales change regularly, and you can relish your pint with a plate of simple and honest food sourced if possible in the county. If wine is preferred, many of those on the excellent list can be served by the glass. The kitchen's style is classically rustic with innovative modern twists: Oakwood Lop ham, for example, is roasted in maple syrup and served with free-range eggs from Fluffetts Farm.