Beautiful forest scenery, free-roaming ponies and donkeys, and a country pub with a story that reaches back to the Second World War.
Some pubs are worth visiting for their location. Others have fascinating stories to tell. The Fighting Cocks in Godshill offers both.
Situated in a particularly beautiful part of the New Forest, this welcoming country pub is surrounded by open countryside, scenic walking routes and the wildlife that makes this part of Hampshire so distinctive.
But there's more to this pub than its picturesque setting.
A Curious Piece of New Forest History
The Fighting Cocks was built around 1927, replacing an older thatched building that stood nearby.
The pub's history is closely connected with the area's military past. During the Second World War, the surrounding landscape was used for testing the famous bouncing bomb.
Local accounts tell of a room in the pub being used as a military mess, with stories linking the location to wartime military figures.
Across the road, visitors can also find a shallow depression traditionally identified as the original cockfighting pit from which the pub takes its name.
It's an intriguing reminder that even a quiet corner of the New Forest can have a remarkable history.
A Beautiful Corner of the New Forest
The scenery around Godshill is one of the area's great attractions.
Open heathland, woodland paths and peaceful countryside make this an appealing destination for walkers and cyclists.
The area is also known for its free-roaming ponies and donkeys, which are often spotted grazing in the surrounding landscape.
For anyone who enjoys photography, the changing light across the heathland and the character of the countryside offer plenty of opportunities to capture the New Forest at its best.
A Proper Country Pub Experience
After a morning exploring the countryside, The Fighting Cocks is an inviting place to relax.
The pub serves freshly prepared food, seasonal dishes and daily specials, alongside a selection of ales and other drinks.
Its welcoming atmosphere makes it suitable for everything from a casual lunch to a get-together with friends and family.
Dogs are welcome, and the surrounding walking routes make the pub a natural stop for visitors exploring this part of the Forest.
The pub also offers accommodation, making it a useful base for a longer countryside break.
More Than Just a Place to Eat
The best country pubs become part of the experience of discovering a place.
They provide a chance to slow down, meet people and enjoy the character of the local area.
The Fighting Cocks is particularly well placed for visitors who want to combine countryside adventures with good food and a relaxing stop along the way.
Whether you're exploring the New Forest for a day or staying longer, Godshill is a lovely place to discover.
Come for the scenery, discover the history and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of The Fighting Cocks.
The Fighting Cocks, Godshill, Fordingbridge, SP6 2LL.