A pretty pub with rooms near the Georgian sailing town of Lymington, the Old Mill is housed in a converted 400-year-old water mill with loads of original character and outdoor space. Close to the coast and the beautiful New Forest National Park, it was a working water mill in the eighteenth century. Today, it’s part of the reliably good Upham Inns group.

The tranquil three-acre gardens at the Old Mill include a large, sunny alfresco terrace to sit at. Watching on, there’s a friendly family of resident ducks in the large pond.

Come for drinks or a meal: the bar at The Old Mill is always open to pop ins for nibbles and a glass of bubbles or a pint of the local brew. The aptly-named ‘social drinking’ menu spans everything from cocktails and mocktails to wines and English sparkling wine. Bottoms up!

On the menu, there’s pub classics like fish pie, steak, beef and veggie burgers and beer battered south coast haddock with chips. You’ll also find plentiful seafood platter sharer and small plates, great for summery terrace visits and can’t-make-your-mind-up days.

Fancy making a weekend of it? Upstairs, The Old Mill’s 12 comfy boutique rooms include a king-sized suite, mid-sized options and cosy doubles.

Dog friendly, pooches are welcome in some of the Old Mill’s public areas and in the grounds. The Old Mill also has dog-friendly rooms (£15 supplement), kitted out with a bed or blanket and treats.