The Best Restaurants in Pilley, Hampshire, United Kingdom (2025)

It's difficult to find but once you are there you are in for a good surprise. The food is amazing, not pretentious dishes but executed to perfection. I recommend the avocado mousse and the flamboyant chocolate and coffee desert.

Utterly faultless. My partner is coeliac and they didn’t even bat an eyelid!! Staff were simply charming and the food was SUBLIME. Delicious wine and just the most beautiful evening. Dietary requirements aren’t a thing… they’re just not phased which made eating out a complete pleasure. Thank you!!

Lovely little pub with great history. Very warm welcome from all staff. The atmosphere was lovely and country-esk. They accepted dogs which was fab. The food was absolutely beautiful, faultless and served timely and with carefully thought about presentation. We had the Monkfish Scampi and Salt and Pepper squid, both superb. For mains we had Halibut in a lobster bisque, and the Chicken and Ham hock pie - full of flavour from start to finish. To end we shared the sticky toffee pudding which was topped with delicious honey comb. We even had the chef and owner come out and chat with us which was such a lovely touch. Wonderful experience, will definitely be back when we’re next in the area!

Went for Sunday lunch and luckily I booked before going as it was packed. Beautiful old building with bags of history and great atmosphere. The food was amazing. Truly one of the best lamb roast dinners I have ever had. Party of 6 people and we all left super full and happy. Would recommend to all if you want great food at a good price.

Dating from 1096, this great pub, with a fantastic menu, was originally under the control of the local monks. Historically important, the Grade 1 listed building has been preserved for our pleasure. Out of the way, on a small country lane and village. Nice selection of beers, it is in contention to be the oldest licenced estabishment in England. Great chat with the landlord, and skilled chef, Steve who knows so much more. Plenty of seating inside and outside. Friendly staff.

Outstanding food, service and atmosphere - couldn't fault it! Sensible pricing too - while not cheap, they don't take the proverbial like so many places do; that's the difference which prompted me to leave a 5 star review. This is a treat to be enjoyed once or twice a year if you live locally!

Having booked to stay nearby we thought we would explore a different Pig, as our local one is in Coombe. We just wanted to let you know what exceptional and friendly service we received from Jack, our waiter. It really was refreshing to be served by someone who clearly enjoys his job so thank you very much. The restaurant is beautiful and we had a wonderful lunch, by far the best gnocchi we have ever had. It was so utterly delicious we ordered another one to share!

Great restaurant with food sourced from within 25 miles. Lots of wine available and also beer and cocktail menus. The staff are very attentive and service is excellent. It gets very busy and bookings are essential. The only drawback is the restaurant area gets very loud due to being in an old orangery, making it difficult to hear when it's busy with large groups. But there are quieter areas which could be requested.

We had the five-course tasting menu over lunch, and from start to finish, it was an excellent experience. The staff were warm, welcoming, and attentive without being intrusive, setting just the right tone for a relaxed meal. The dining room itself felt either brand new or impeccably maintained, adding to the sense of occasion. The food was outstanding. Every dish beautifully presented, seasonal, and most importantly really bloody tasty! The wine list was solid; while I didn’t drink, my wife enjoyed the wine selected for her. It wasn’t a formal pairing, but when we asked for something to match what we were eating, the choice was spot on. One small piece of feedback rather than a complaint. I was surprised that there wasn’t a seafood course, especially given the restaurant’s prime waterfront location. It felt like a bit of a missed opportunity. Also, while the English sparkling by the glass was a great option, I’d have loved to see a Champagne by the glass as well. That said, these are minor points in what was an otherwise fantastic meal. We’ll definitely be back!

Great people and tasty food and loved the atmosphere but a little rushed through the first couple of courses so had to slow down a bit to send a message. One little downfall is just the w/c could do with bringing up to the standard of the service and food

Incredible taster menu. Service was on point. Food was delicious, especially langoustine with salt baked beetroot and duck breast. Wines well paired. Would highly recommend.

Visited The Elderflower to try the 7 course (yes, 7 course) tasting menu, and I must say it was one of the best dining experiences I've ever had. Every dish was incredible, but not large enough to make you feel like a stuffed pig by the end. The wine was matched perfectly to each dish and the staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. Easily one of the best restaurant meals I've ever tasted, just superb.

Friendly welcoming staff. Nice relaxed atmosphere. Unfortunately they had run out of the lamb shank roast option. As can be seen by the photos portions are generous. We had the Mac and Cheese bites for starter with roast beef and scampi for mains. We will be visiting again before our holiday ends.

Had a wonderful time. On Sunday there are special roasted dishes which are supreme. Amazing food for a real British experience. Would definitely come back.

Popped into this very dog friendly pub for Sunday lunch and it didn't disappoint! Great value too at just £12 for the standard roast chicken, beef, pork etc. An extra £3.50 for a generous portion of cauliflower cheese unfortunately left no room for desserts so that will have to be one for next time. The menu has a good spread of food and a number of daily specials across Starters, Mains and Dessert. They also sell a variety of doggie treats for your four legged furry friends! A little off the main strip in Lymington but well worth a visit!

Cracking place this, stayed for business but would definitely return on a leisurely vacation, the staff were impeccable, the lad was having his dinner and jumped up to serve without hesitation, so polite and this matters today imo! Room is spot on, heated, lovely bathroom and I can't wait to try the breakfast tomorrow! Great beers brewed on site. Location is good for a short walk into the centre bit and would recommend to friends and family without doubt

Had an absolutely amazing meal with my husband! Service and food was top notch, the restaurant is beautifully decorated, and really pleased that they are dog friendly. Shame we live so far away or we would definitely be back!

Popped in for a quick pint. Very good selection of beers and ales. Friendly staff. Food looked really good and the place was full. So I would book if going for food. Large seating area outside, some seats have heaters. Will probably have a meal here before we go back. Dog friendly, small car park. Cant comment on rooms didnt stay there.

Discovered this gem whilst visiting the New Forest. Was recommended to us, and for good reason. We dropped in mid week for dinner and immediately felt welcome. Definitely feels like a pub that's used by locals, but not one where strangers are made to feel unwelcome. Staff were warm, welcoming and professional. Food was great... Lovely balance of quality and just enough to leave us satisfied but without feeling uncomfortable. The vibe is great with a choice of the more restaurant side or the pub side (which is where we positioned ourselves). As we're moving into the area next year, this week certainly be one of our regular places to enjoy an evening. Thanks to all at MB. Bob

Great location and a nice welcome on arrival. Table as requested and food was both tasty and well proportioned. The only niggle was the music from the bar area was both loud and not really appropriate for ambiance that was trying to be created. Personal choice maybe but relevant to our reason for dining. Nice dining experience overall and we'll be coming back 👍🏻🙂

Great spot, food was good. They were busy so maybe service a little slower than the norm, but wasn't an issue for us as chatting with friends in the sun that was streaming through the window. Will definitely go again. Staff were excellent. Dog friendly. Didn't stay overnight, just food.

Went as part of a group for a set, two course Christmas Dinner. The main course was lovely, very tasty and nicely presented. The two options for desert looked lovely, but due to dietary restrictions I could eat neither. I was offered a small cheeseboard which was lovely, then charged £4 for it. I don't think this is fair as I'd already paid for the two set courses which included a desert. I and two other people were also asked to pay for tea infusions whereas coffee was included in the cost of the meal. I love going to the Cliff House, the staff are terrific and it's in a great position. However, I do think that folk who can't eat deserts on a set menu or drink tea are treated unfairly.

Food was really good all dishes would have again. Cocktails superb. Staff so accommodating

Just went to have a drink and look around. Staff all so amazingly helpful and pleasant with nothing too much trouble. The duty manager showed us a range of beautifully appointed rooms. Also the spa staff similarly showed us all that they had to offer. Cocktails lovely too

There is a reason the Lime Wood is a 5* hotel as the service, rooms, food, staff, spa, location, and everything else that comes with it are top-notch. The luxury of prestine service in a superb setting without being pretentious with it. The dress code is relaxed and the added bonus of a luxury spa on site for various treatments.

Visited Limewood for a glorious afternoon tea. The sandwiches & cakes were amazing. The staff were so friendly and the service was top notch. There was plenty for two but always more is available. The surroundings and atmosphere was lovely.

We absolutely loved our one night stay at Lime Wood, celebrating my wife's 40th Birthday! We had very high expectations but they were exceeded! The staff couldn't be more friendly and helpful, including the lady who checked us in and the fantastic sommelier in training. The spa was very relaxing and varied enough not to get bored. The best part was the quality of the food. The breakfast is up there with the best we've had at hotels, and the restaurant was absolutely superb, one of our favourite meals of this year. We can't wait to return!

Ate here after talking to someone in our B&B and was told they served good fish and seafood dishes we decided to give it a try. We booked a table just to be sure and as it was a nice evening decided to eat outside. The food was excellent we had salmon gravlax to start with seabass dauphinoise potato in a bisque and I had the seafood special. Service was good, water was constantly replenished without asking The man who served us I believe is the owner has a bit of a nonchalant demeanor but dont let that put you off Would definitely recommend if you like fish and sea food, we came to the New Forest to try a couple of restaurants should just have eaten here more often and saved a shed load of money

Wow! What a lovely place. We had a gorgeous lunch. The food is the best we have had in a long time. The staff are great. Our dog got fresh water on arrival. We will certainly be regular customers on our frequent visits to the area.

Service is very good, nice and attentive, they give you the option for service charge (now adding to the bill is very important to me). The atmosphere is great, you feel into a small old pub, food is ok. Creative, good presentation, should have come warmer though.

Had an amazing dinner at Waterman’s Rest in Lymington! Started with a flavorful seafood cocktail and perfect salmon gravlax. The freshly cooked trout and same-day sourced skate wing were delicious, paired with a refreshing and good-value Prosecco. Service was excellent, and the owner’s commitment to local vibes and top-notch ingredients really shines. If you’re in Lymington, definitely check it out!

Clean and cozy rooms with very comfortable beds and a newly renovated bathroom. The restaurant had a very welcoming atmosphere with lots of photographs of celebrities. We enjoyed our meals there as the food was delicious and freshly made, the staff was really friendly and helpful. Every morning before breakfast we went to look, if the donkeys were already in front of the pub and every time they were there waiting for the pub to open ;-) we enjoyed these unique moments very much

Beautiful surroundings, amazing food and service Our family had the absolute pleasure of dining at the pub where Chef Lucian works on Christmas Eve, and it was an experience we’ll treasure forever. The pub itself is absolutely beautiful—cozy and warm, with a charming fireplace that created the perfect festive atmosphere for the evening. Each dish we tried was a masterpiece, beautifully crafted and bursting with flavor. I opted for the skate wing, which was cooked to perfection—delicate, tender, and paired with flavors that complemented it beautifully. My father had the turkey, which was moist, flavorful, and served with all the traditional trimmings, elevated to fine dining status. My mum enjoyed the braised beef, which was melt-in-the-mouth tender with a rich, savory sauce that was pure indulgence. My husband couldn’t stop raving about his chicken with saffron risotto, a dish that perfectly balanced hearty comfort and sophisticated elegance. Not only was the food incredible, but the service and atmosphere were equally outstanding. Lucian’s wife, Annie, who manages the pub, impressed us with her impeccable organizational skills and genuine politeness. She ensured everything ran seamlessly, creating a welcoming and relaxed environment for everyone. It was inspiring to see such a hardworking and talented duo at the helm. This was truly one of the best Christmas Eve dinners we’ve ever had. Between the incredible food, the inviting atmosphere of the pub, and the warmth and professionalism of the team, it was an unforgettable experience. We’re already looking forward to returning for more of Chef Lucian’s culinary brilliance and Annie’s exceptional hospitality. Thank you both for making our evening so special! ❤️