Southampton and New Forest pubs named among best in England
The watering holes featured in the guide were chosen by Will Hawkes, who made selections based on their "charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and award-winning beer".
In Shirley, the Park Inn made the cut, while The Royal Oak in Fritham near Lyndhurst was the only pub in the New Forest to be listed.
The Park Inn reacted to the news on its Facebook page, saying it hasn't been a "bad couple of years" after also winning Camra South Hants Pub of the Year in 2024 and being a finalist in 2025.
READ MORE: 'Enviable' Hampshire town among UK's best for al fresco dining and pub gardens
Will Hawkes said that while Shirley has "plenty of pubs", the Park Inn "beats the other hands down" in terms of atmosphere.
The Park Inn in Shirley was a stand out for the Telegraph, despite Shirley being home to plenty of pubs. For the Telegraph, Will said: "On a recent Friday afternoon, this tidy street-corner pub was busy at 5pm: locals sat at the bar, chatting amiably, while three pugs slumbered in the sunlight flooding in through an open door.
"Beer is served in immaculate condition, and for those who enjoy local specialties, there are Marmite-flavour cashews."
The Telegraph praised The Royal Oak for being a "family friendly" historic pub where "good walks" are nearby and pets are welcome.
READ MORE: One of Hampshire's best-known hotels to undergo multi-million pound refurb
Will explained that a sunny day at the New Forest pub "brings jeopardy as well as delight".
The Royal Oak in the New Forest was called charming. (Image: Paul S/Tripadvisor) He said: "This charming three-room New Forest pub is pretty small, all things considered, but it has a huge garden – so you can imagine what happens when it starts to rain (although a marquee helps take the strain).
"Run for the past 26 years by the McCulloch family, the Royal Oak's focus is on high-quality, traditional, local food (served only at lunchtime) and drink – from pork pies to ales brewed in Hampshire and nearby Wiltshire.
"Accommodation comes in the form of three shepherd's bothies."
The Royal Oak is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays but offers handmade from scratch woodfired pizzas on Thursdays.
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