THIS traditional pub offers music, meet ups, food and fun - all in the heart of the New Forest and close to the site of a British legend.

The Sir Walter Tyrrell at Brook lies just yards from the Rufus Stone, which marks the site of the demise of William II (Rufus).

The pub is named after the man who is said to have killed the King during a hunting accident in 1100.

With its vast outdoor area overlooking the Forest and impressive children's play area, it's a popular spot for families and visitors alike.

It's also used by a host of car and motorbike clubs, including the BMW and Porsche clubs, for their regular gatherings.

During lockdown, staff operated a successful beer and food takeaway service and live music has already made a return with three local bands having performed outside to a sea of socially distanced customers.

Former aviation recruiter Melanie Cross and her chef husband Nick took early retirement to take over the pub in April 2018.

Melanie told the Daily Echo: "We love it here, it's just beautiful. You wake up every morning and can see cows, horses and sheep out of the window.

"It's so peaceful away from the hustle and bustle and we make sure the pub is very laid back."

Meat, vegetarian and vegan Mud Pies are the most popular item on the menu. The Portuguese chef's Chicken Piri Piri is a delight and Sunday roasts, fish and chips and gammon also go down a treat.

Customers travel from far and wide to enjoy the unusual selection of flavoured ciders include Lilley's mango cider on draught.

The picturesque pub is not as old as its olde worlde appearance would suggest. The original pub on the site was known as the Stump, named after the wooden legged landlady, and still lies in the car park. The new pub, renamed after the local legend, was built in the 1930s and included a menagerie with monkeys and exotic birds. It became well known in the 60s for its live music.

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