A FAMILY-owned pub nestled in the New Forest and striving to be the ‘go to place’- The Old Beams Inn is our Pub of the Week.

Built in the 11th Century, The Old Beams Inn has always been a popular pub in the area, boasting a friendly atmosphere, excellent local ales and a full menu of home produced and cooked food.

Owner Simon Ball said: “Theres a lot of history with this pub locally. It was the go-to place. My ambition is to make it the go-to place again.”

Since it was bought by the current owners around four years ago, the family-friendly thatched pub has welcomed a refurbishment, new team members and exciting food menus.

The latest spring/summer menu is sure to get tastebuds tingling.

With an impressive selection of home-produced dishes and plant-based alternatives, there really is something for everyone. Diners can also enjoy a tasty three-meat carvery on Sundays.

Simon said: “The spring,summer menu has a classic base but with a refined dining style twist to it.

“We have a lot of people ring to book a table because they’ve heard the food is really good.”

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The Old Beams Inn also promotes an exciting events calendar, with monthly music nights and quizzes held every other Tuesday, with cash prizes up for grabs.

Simon said: “We had an Abba tribute which was a tremendous success, and we have a David Bowie tribute happening on April 15.

“We do an open mic session with local up and coming artists and musicians.

“We also do a digital quiz. It’s interactive so people use their smartphones or tablets.

"It’s quite unique I don’t know anywhere else that does it.”

The pub is also regular host to parties, christenings and wakes, and with a wedding license applied for, it’s hoped that The Old Beams Inn will become home to even more special events in the future.

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There are big plans for the summer too. Simon said: “This summer, if everything goes to plan, we’ll have an outside kitchen area. The plan is to have a pizza oven and a hog roast.”

The kitchen area will join an already impressive outside space with plenty of seating, a marquee for events and a children’s play area.

Dogs are welcome to the pub too, so if you’re looking for a place to take the whole family, The Old Beams Inn is the perfect spot.

You can find The Old Beams Inn at Ibsley, Ringwood, BH24 3PP.