Surrounded by beautiful countryside and brilliant walks, The Filly Inn has long been a well-kept secret among locals, ramblers and dog walkers.

Now, following a £1m restoration, word is getting out about the charming 16th Century pub near Brockenhurst. And with its beautifully restored historic features, cosy dining and drinking nooks, open fireplaces and seven en-suite rooms, it’s fast becoming a destination pub in the area.

Well-heeled visitors certainly won’t feel out of place at The Filly Inn but neither will the army of walkers that still hole-up here after a trek through The Forest (doggies are always welcome too).

Below the low-timber ceilings, the classic wooden bar has been returned to its former glory, complete with traditional flagstone floors. Moving to the impeccably decorated lounge,  soft velvet and leather armchairs and a wood burning fire make for a dangerously comfortable spot to spend an hour or three in. Outside, the huge terrace with pergolas and stretch tents for year-round alfresco dining is also proving a huge hit.

In the kitchen, the chefs busily dish out pub classics like beer-battered fish and chips and 28-day aged rib eye steak with garlic & herb mushroom, onion rings and skin-on-chips. Lighter options –  like the superfood salad with sweet and sour onions – also really deliver. Look out too for locally sourced seafood specials, the hearty Sunday lunch and great kids’ menus. Now that’s what we call a pretty Filly.