LOOKING for an eating place that’s a bit different from the usual run? Look no further than the Alice Lisle at Rockford Green in the New Forest, just a couple of miles north of Ringwood.

The setting is idyllic, and the spacious grounds provide ample parking and plenty of outside tables for al fresco eating – some fitted with sturdy umbrellas featuring overhead heaters for those cooler evenings.

The restaurant, recently given a makeover, was buzzing with diners by 8pm, many of them families, for this is a place that welcomes children (though part of the garden is designated a ‘child-free zone’ for those who don’t).

Although the pub was busy, service – delivered by manager Natalie’s cheery and youthful staff - was commendably prompt and attentive.

No lengthy waits or trying to catch the waiter’s eye here.

Starters include old favourites like the classic Prawn Cocktail, but also extend to exotica such as Wild Boar Paté and Mango & Chilli Marinated Beef Skirt.

I can personally recommend the Honey-Roasted Parsnip Soup that was on the ‘specials’ menu when we visited.

You would have to be an exceptionally fussy eater not to find something to your liking in the varied list of main courses. Classics like Chicken, Ham and Leek Pie or Beer Battered Cod and Chips will appeal to more conservative palates, while the adventurous can opt for Pan Fried Gnocchi or Cornish Orchard Braised Pork Belly with yummy crackling and accompanied by a black pudding and apple mash.

Maybe it has something to do with the pub’s proximity to Blashford Lake that fish fans are also well catered for at the Alice Lisle. Their ‘Famous for Fish’ section of the menu features black bream, skate wings and salmon fillet.

A beautiful setting, attentive staff and varied menu. What’s not to like?

(And if you were wondering where the pub got its name, Dame Alice Lisle was a local aristo who was ill-advised enough to harbour a couple of refugees from a failed attempt to depose King James II and had her head chopped off in Winchester’s market square for her trouble).

The Alice Lisle, Rockford Green, Ringwood BH24 3NA. Phone: 01425 474700, website thealicelisle.co.uk.