The Oak Inn, Bank, LYNDHURST, SO43 7FD [Map]
023 8028 2350http://www.oakinn.co.uk/ 
11:30-15, 18-23 MO-FR; 12-23 SA; 12-22:30 SU
Car Park, Evening Meals, Real Fire, Beer Garden, Lunchtime Meals

Jim and Roger outside the Oak Inn, May 2002

Tucked away in the trees the Oak Inn is buried deep in the New Forest about a mile west of Lyndhurst yet but a few hundred yards from the busy A35 trunk road permitting easy access by car. You could always hop on the bus, the X35 Southampton - Bournemouth bus runs every 2 hours Mon-Sat and stops at the end of the lane at the Bank turning on the A35.

It's a 17th century building which then became a cider house in the 18th century eventually evolving into the Oak Inn as we see it today. A simple pubby feel about the bar with bare board floors, beamed ceilings and wooden tables and chairs and hops festooned around the smart wooden bar. In the winter they've a wood burning stove to help keep you warm. The real ale here is excellent. Ringwood Best Bitter is their permanent beer with around four guest beers available at any one time. There's a bias towards local brews, so if you're visiting the area it's an excellent opportunity to sample some locally produced ale. They host two beer festivals a year, one in July, and one the weekend before Christmas.

They are also very well known for their high quality food and have won various awards for this. We enjoyed an excellent lunch one late spring Saturday. They specialise in fresh fish, and you should find two or three choices which might include sea bass, or my favourite, skate. You can park your horse outside if you wish and dogs are allowed in the pub only if they're on a lead and clean!

Jim and Roger finishing their beer and lunch in the beer garden, May 2002