New Forest Inn Lyndhurst

I informed a waitress that I was gluten intolerant (meaning that I can eat things that have made contact with gluten; just not foods that contain gluten)- no issues there. I then tried a chip off of my dining partner's plate- again not an issue, since it does not contain gluten. A man with a flat cap and glasses then sits at the counter, talking to the hostess about booking information. I assume he is some sort of owner. He goes on a long rant about how people shouldn't call themselves coeliac if it is just a dietary preference, and that trying "just a chip" (yes, exact words,) was insulting to the kitchen staff that disinfect work stations and use separate fryers in order to prepare gluten free foods. This conversation happened adjacent to our table and seemed to comment on my actions directly, so it was hard not to take personally. I considered explaining the difference between an intolerance and an allergy, but ultimately decided that it wasn't my job. Overall- food was fine, waitress was lovely. But what an uncomfortable, unpleasant dining experience. If you don't want to be blatantly gossipped about where you eat, I wouldn't go here.

A nice local pub in a good location with good gluten-free options. The food was good and nice local cider. The side veg was completely unseasoned, which was a bit disappointing. The beer garden was good but quite far to go back to the pub to order and also carried your own drinks. Parking space is not big but it was not too hard to find parking on the street nearby.

This Inn is a mishmash of historic buildings, it trails along the street, quaint, and unassuming. Like an old lady cloaked in green waiting to welcome you in. Colourful hanging baskets festoon the front. There is a large sign warning townies that ponies bite. Reviews highlighted parking could be an issue. The forecourt filled to capacity, down a steep incline to the rear we found a space, but additional parking is available on the road. Beware the parameter onto the road at the front falls away and you can easily ground your car. Stepping into the bar was like stepping back in time. Not many old inns keep their integrity, but this one has. That musty old beer aroma, stone walls and subdued lighting, worn leather couches and plenty of nooks to slide yourself into and while away the hours. A young man welcomed us and showed us to our room. Located at the top of the stairs, our room overlooked the rear of the pub. The accommodation was bright, clean and welcoming. A large TV commanded one wall, with tub seating, a side table and stool. The room was stuffy, so we opened the window, immediately discovering the kitchen extraction unit. The drone from the extractor was annoying, and not the peaceful atmosphere I was expecting. Descending one step, there is a well-lit, spacious bathroom with a good-sized shower, hand basin, and toilet. Toiletries, towels and hairdryer provided. There was a reasonably well-stocked tea tray, but it was on a very low shelf. We later popped into the bar for refreshments. It was very busy, but had a friendly buzz. We had eaten prior to our arrival but did partake in dessert. A little pricy at £8.50 each. Gluten-free sticky toffee pudding and a slice of cheesecake, both served with ice-cream. Returning to our room was a bit like running the gauntlet. The automatic watering system giving those hanging baskets a drenching also drenched us. The doorway leading to the accommodation is not well lit. Trying to dodge the water and get the key in the lock was a feat in itself, but on a warm autumnal evening, caused great frivolity. The window remained closed until the extraction unit fell silent. Peace descended, window open, the forest came to life, the magical caterwauls of an owl, then silence. The bed, although very creaky, was comfortable. Thankfully, they do not turn the extractor on too early in the morning. Breakfast is available from 8.30-11.00am. Staff serve breakfast in the bar, the welcome could have been warmer. The menu had a variety of options, from the full forest to simple toast and preserves. There is a serve-yourself table laden with, cereals, fruit juices, yogurts, preserves, and fruit. I chose the full forest. The gluten-free option (menu provided) did not include sausage and black pudding. Sadly also no gluten-free cereals on offer, but toast was available. Half an hour after ordering breakfast was served, it was worth the wait. Hot food, golden yolked eggs, crispy bacon, good produce, well presented. We returned later that day. Managed to bag ourselves a parking spot right outside the pub entrance, high five for me! Thankfully, the weather was a little cooler, so we didn’t need to open our window. We booked a table that evening. The pub was very quiet, staff were attentive, friendly and helpful. Drinks ordered, we perused the menu and settled on steak and ale pie £19.99 and pan fried lambs liver (gluten-free) £17.99. Service was reasonably quick, and like breakfast the food was piping hot. The pie lived up to all the media-hype. Crispy golden pastry, ram packed with melt in the mouth steak, served in a pool of gravy. My husband rated it the best pie he had ever eaten! The pan fried lamb’s liver, served on a bed of creamy mash and gravy, was tender and moreìsh. Both dishes were filling. I managed to make room for another slice of the gluten-free sticky toffee pudding and ice-cream. Check in from 3pm and check out 11am. Would we stay here again, a resounding yes, but in a different room. This quirky unspoiled inn is 100% worth a visit for dining or accommodation.