An 18th century pub in a stunning riverside location - The George is Pub of the Week.

The George, as the oldest surviving Inn in Fordingbridge, is a family friendly pub set on the banks of the River Avon.

The pub is owned by husband and wife, Caroline and James Roylance, and is supported by a team of long-standing staff. 

Caroline said: “Our staff make it special.

“They’re always so happy. I like to think that they really enjoy it here. We have staff that have been here eight years.”

Bournemouth Echo:

Caroline was quick to praise the kitchen team at The George too.

She said: “We have fantastic chefs here.

“We have lots of different nationalities in the kitchen. One is Thai, one is Romanian, and our bar manager is Cambodian, and she goes in the kitchen, so we do a lot of different foods."

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The pub offers an extensive menu, as well as ever changing special dishes, regular tasting menus, and set tapas nights.

Caroline added: “All of our food is homemade from scratch. Nothing is bought in. It’s all made with fresh ingredients.”

Bournemouth Echo:

Since purchasing The George in September 2013, Caroline and James have introduced a stunning pub garden, a courtyard shop, Covid-friendly pods, and a gardening patch, home to The George’s resident duck, Karen.

Caroline said: “Karen is named after one of our regulars.

“We also have a pair of swans on the river. We had a black swan appear in January as well and he has stayed. He’s called Hugh, after another regular.

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“Everyone gets really involved with the wildlife here."

The George is also home to Alan, the pub dog, who became famous after appearing on Good Morning Britain in December last year.

Bournemouth Echo:

Caroline added: “Some people come just to see Alan. He’s famous on Instagram now.”

‘Master Alan’s Doggy Menu’ is also on offer at the George, a special menu for your four-legged friends featuring dog-friendly fish cake, sausages, and ice cream.

If this sounds good to you, and your dog, then visit The George at 14 Bridge St, Fordingbridge, SP6 1AH.