Great pub, good access, fantastically helpful staff
4.5
4.5
Date of visit: January 2016
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
This lovely pub is situated in the New Forest. There are several levels - there's ramped entrance at the lower level where there's a disabled loo as well. There are rooms, including some on the ground room - we haven't stayed there so can't vouch for their suitability. Access to lower level was easy (there's a sloping path next to the entrance to get to the rear door). Staff were welcoming and extra helpful (fetching the menu, moving chairs etc).
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
Access from the car park to garden is via a large gate, so assistance likely to be needed. Path next to entrance accesses lower level, where there's a ramped entrance. Staff unbolted both doors to enable wheelchair to get in easily. I'm told the main way in is do-able but then you wouldn't be on the same level as the loos (small flight of steps to lower level). Once inside, hard floors make manoeuvring easy. Plenty of room to move wheelchair around. Choice of tables to sit at. A sign at main entrance signposting the other way in would be a helpful improvement for anyone unaccompanied (my husband went inside to ask about best way in - we hadn't noticed the other door).
Parking & Transport
Average
Although parking is fine in the sizeable car park, there are no blue badge spaces and the surface is rough (it's a large clearing in the Forest). Its not a problem but just be aware that the ground isn't perfectly smooth, especially on foot. It's off the beaten track so driving is essential. We walked/wheeled from another car park so we got out into the Forest - the Inn is a great watering hole mid way through a walk.
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
Nice and clean, spacious, rails etc. Toilet sign was clear.
Staff
Excellent
So helpful and welcoming without being intrusive. Went to fetch menu, moved chairs for me, etc. really made me feel welcome.
Additional Information
Food and atmosphere are great. I loved that I could go in here again - this was an old haunt on visits to the New Forest when I was able bodied. Highly recommended. We hope to return to sample the B and B accommodation!
