Just a short distance from Ringwood town, The Alice Lisle offers stunning lake views, award-winning chefs and a menu of locally sourced dishes.

Until the 1960s, The Alice Lisle building was that of Rockford Primary School. It was George Gale & Co who bought the space and turned it into a public house, for it to then be acquired by Fullers in 2005.

The pub has undergone more recent changes, with new manager Sorrel Taylor taking the reins in July last year.

Deputy manager Sophie Clarke said: “The current (Alice Lisle) team is very special.”

The rural haven offers a varied menu with all dishes locally sourced. A set menu is also available on Sundays for those wanting to enjoy a tasty roast dinner.

Sophie said: “We offer classic pub food but then we also have a distinct set of signatures that we rotate. We have a lot of fresh fish dishes and then we also have vegan and vegetarian dishes.”

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The pub has an impressive outdoor space, with a play area for children and dining tables with lakeside views.

Sophie said: “On a summer evening you can sit and look across the lake and it is absolutely gorgeous.”

Guests also have the option of seats under the heated terrace or in one of the two indoor areas: a main seating area which is most suitable for dining, or the Forester’s bar which is a cosy and dog friendly bar area with a fireplace. The Forester’s bar even has treats on hand for your four-legged friends.

Both areas offer the full food menu and a collection of premium beers, wines and spirits. Gin lovers will also be pleased to know that both bars serve more than 10 different gins, and during the summer they run a special Sipsmiths bar outside.

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The deputy manager hopes that the new managerial changes will see the Alice Lisle thrive even more. She said: “We are investing in our outdoor space for the summer. We are getting a shelter put outside and we’ll be investing in the outside bar too.

“We are going to be bringing in new events and live music. We want there to be a lot going on.

“The summer will be very exciting.”

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So, if you’d like to experience exceptional service and delicious food, put The Alice Lisle on your list.

They are open Monday-Saturday from 11am, serving food from 12-9pm, and on Sunday from 12pm, serving food until 7pm. Booking is advised.