The New Forest boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, brimming with businesses who have the Forest at the heart of their offering.

From cosy cafes to fabulous farm shops, a wide range of places proudly support the local landscape and community by offering true New Forest produce.

It’s easy to discover these local gems thanks to the New Forest Marque, a food and produce scheme that champions businesses who produce or provide food, drinks and crafts with clearly defined New Forest provenance.

By choosing produce labelled with the New Forest Marque logo, or visiting Marque members who sell local produce, you can strengthen the local economy, help conserve nature and also reduce your carbon footprint. Plus, as the time from Forest to fork is shorter, your plate is filled with tastier, fresher, more nutritious food.

Many of the Marque’s retail and hospitality members welcome visitors throughout the year. The Marque’s Local Produce Guide features inspiration such as:

  • Make an afternoon of it at family-run Hockey’s Farm, where you can meet farm animals, visit the café, browse bric-a-brac, and buy local produce including pannage pork, from pigs that have roamed freely on the open Forest.
  • Tuck into delicious Thai food and learn to cook your own authentic dishes with a cooking masterclass at Anissa’s Thai Kitchen, a family-run restaurant which champions New Forest producers.
  • Head to Sunnyfields Farm for an array of local produce plus popular events such as Sunflower Time, where you can immerse yourself in fields of flowers.
  • Enjoy a luxury afternoon tea at Rosie Lea House in the heart of the Forest, relaxing as children let off steam with a mud kitchen, giant chalk boards and play area.

Find more hidden gems – browse all New Forest Marque retail and hospitality members.

Claire Lee, New Forest Marque Manager, said: ‘It’s easy to support the local community by visiting our Marque members, all of whom have the New Forest at the heart of their product. Not only will you be treated to delicious food and drink, but will be supporting New Forest businesses and ensuring local traditions continue to thrive.’

Download a copy of the Marque’s Local Produce Guide or sign up for the Marque’s newsletter to learn more about the Marque.

Pictured, Laura Stainton Burrell at Hockey’s Farm Shop.