Looking for the Bat & Ball Inn
Go to their current site at: www.batandballbreamore.co.uk/
Perhaps better known for its pub which is part of the Bat & Ball Inn, this was the original website for the inn / lodge. Located on the edge of the New Forest in Breamore, England, the Bat &Ball is considered one of the 10 Best Restaurants In New Forest, England which is itself one of the most popular travel destinations in the UK. The forest was created by William I in the 11th century for royal hunts. Many consider this southern England area as an excellent way to explore the rambling English countryside.
Content is from the site's 2016 - 2017 archived pages, as well as from other outside sources.
The current website for the Bat and Ball pub is found at: www.batandballbreamore.co.uk/
There are a number of pubs named the Bat & Ball in England. This particular one is located in Breamore, England. Besides the pub there is also a lodge/ inn that can accommodate up to 6 guests in two apartments.
If you have inadvertently ended up here while looking for the Bat & Ball in Breamore, England, the new owners of this domain want to make sure you get to the correct website:
www.batandballbreamore.co.uk/.
Salisbury Road, Breamore
Nr Fordingbridge, SP6 2EA
Breamore is in the Avon Valley, which is known as a place of tranquil beauty. The Bat and Ball is a good spot for lunch after a day of exploring the local natural sights. The Avon Valley’s river contains more species of fish than any other river in Britain. The inn has accommodation and often hosts live music and special events, like a South African barbecue, or braai.
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A review: Located in the quaint village of Breamore on the outskirts of the New Forest, this charming eatery has earned an enviable reputation for its exceptional value and distinct menu. Offering British classics and traditional South African cuisine, you’ll find the likes of beer-battered cod and chips alongside kangaroo and zebra steaks. I started with salt and pepper squid served with deliciously zesty mayonnaise, while my partner was enamoured with her choice of mushroom crostini. I followed with an equally well-presented main course of Brie and cranberry Wellington with a sumptuous mushroom sauce, and ended the meal with cherry Bakewell tart – a harmonious blend of sharp and sweet flavours. Potable options include a varied selection of beer and wine, all served by friendly staff. It’s worth reserving a table, as this popular village pub draws in crowds from all over Hampshire and beyond.
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Welcome to the Bat and Ball
You will find us in Breamore (pronounced “Bremmer”) on the edge of the New Forest, 8 miles from Salisbury and 2 miles from Fordingbridge.
Step in to discover a traditional pub with a unique character, revered for its range of fine Ringwood beers and its hearty food with a South African twist. Great food and drink served as they should be, with an added generous measure of South African hospitality.
A fascinating area
Breamore sits on the edge of the New Forest in the Avon Valley, renowned for its beauty and tranquility. Did you know that the Avon is thought to contain more species of fish than any other river in Britain?
There is something for everyone in The New Forest, whether you’re looking to relax, explore or just enjoy, The New Forest is the ideal location…and we’re the ideal place for lunch, dinner or a just a refreshing drink.
Whatever your reason for visiting, you’ll always find a warm welcome at the Bat and Ball.
Accommodations
At the Bat and Ball we have our Lodge, where we can accommodate up to six guests.
The Lodge comprises two apartments that you can book separately or together, and come with breakfast in the pub. The upstairs apartment sleeps four in single beds with a shared bathroom. The ground floor apartment has a double bed with an en-suite bathroom.
Prices are very competitive, so phone us on 01725 512252 if you’d like to find out more or to book.
Reservations: Call us on 01725 512252 to reserve a table
Bar and Restaurant Opening Times
We are open every day from midday until 11pm.
We serve food from midday until 10pm.
Call us to make a reservation: 01725 512252
YELP REVIEWS from 2017
***** James Moore
Reviewed April 15, 2017
High quality, generous portions, will definitely be coming back!
The place was fully booked/reserved, packed full, but they managed to find us a table. Considering that it was FULL, the food came very quickly, great quality, and reasonably priced.
The staff were a little rushed, but it didn't affect us too much.
All in all, I would rate this place 5/5. Very happy with the evening. Would definitely recommend
The seafood platter (main) was HUGE and tasty.
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*****
Fordingbridge, United Kingdom
Reviewed April 15, 2017
This Landlord Deserves Success
Firstly, this pub is in Breamore, not Fordingbridge and I visit the pub regularly.
The pub is very busy and during the weekdays there is a 'Pensioners' Lunch deal which is VERY well attended. Not surprising as it offers excellent value for money. Inside, the pub is quite spacious and there is also a large beer garden. In colder times there is always an open log fire which is very cosy. Beers are Ringwood Brewery plus some others so 49er is my recommendation. Prices are kept very reasonable.
Jason, the landlord, looks after customers so very well. His staff, too, are very good. It is so great when you get a landlord who goes the extra mile for his customers and recognises regulars do a have a choice of where they spend their money.
So, a great country pub, easy to get to. Highly recommended.
Date of visit: April 2017
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***** Peter S
Southampton, United Kingdom
9841
Reviewed April 13, 2017
Great food and service
I took my father for a meal to celebrate his 82nd birthday to the Bat and Ball and I was very impressed with the entire experience. We had not booked a table but that didn't matter, we were made to feel immediately welcome by attentive staff. There was a really friendly and warm ambience.
Drinks orders were taken at the table. The menu and 'specials' board gave a very varied choice and our meals were just great. I had the beef curry and my father the pie of the day (steak and ale). My wife had the chilli. Presentation was excellent and the food was of high quality and very tasty, with the curry having a nice kick.
I can honestly say that this is some of the best pub food I have ever experienced! We will be back given the opportunity.
Date of visit: April 2017
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***** Lesley B
Salisbury, United Kingdom
Reviewed April 13, 2017
Amazing
Called in yesterday for lunch, pub was absolutely packed, we stood at the bar, thinking there will be no room for us, however a member of staff came over and asked if she could help, and immediately found us the last available table.
We sat down and she offered to get our drinks whilst we looked at the menue, on her return we ordered food, thinking that as it was busy we would have starters and a main, and hoping the wait was not too long. How they did it I do not know, starters arrived very quickly and both choices were excellent, my husbands only gripe was there was dressing on his salad. When the waitress came to clear the table, it was explained to her about the dressing and she was in agreement. Mains came and again excellent, beef curry was not your normal pub type, but proper curry and my chicken salad was as fresh as could be and plenty of it.
Excellent choice of wine by the glass and beer.
Customer service could not be better, the owners must be very proud of the staff they employ.
The whole establishment was very clean and nicely laid out.
They also serve food all day, would certainly recommend.
Date of visit: April 2017
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***** Paul L
Reviewed March 2, 2017 via mobile
Ate here 3 times in 2 days!
We ended up in here for dinner as the Horse & Groom down the road had closed their kitchen early. To cut a long story short... great staff, great food and great atmosphere. Nice selection of ales too which they are happy to give you a taster of. We went here for lunch the next day too. For dinner we decided to revisit The Foresters Arms where we'd had a lovely lunch the day before but they too had closed the kitchen early due to lack of trade... so we ended up in The Bat & Ball again!
From talking to the locals at the bar we discovered that this was the only pub around that consistently served food during the advertised hours (12pm-10pm) and it is a total lottery going elsewhere.
I throughly recommend The Bat & Ball.
Date of visit: March 2017
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***** ZaZa210684
Derby, United Kingdom
346103
Reviewed February 15, 2017 via mobile
Amazingly good food
We were recommended by our hosts and thought we would give it a try.
We were greeted by a friendly bartender who served us our drinks and informed us that we could sit anywhere within the pub.
Once we had decided on our choice of meal, my partner ordered at the bar. I had ordered the lamb shank with gravy, mashed potato and vegetables and my partner ordered chicken and bacon pasta. Both were very delicious indeed. We ended up, having a lively conversation with the couple who were sitting at the next table about food, of course, comparing various restaurants both here in England and in the US where I was originally from. The conversation then segued into pets. We both had Sealyham terriers. Our two are city dogs and theirs is a country dog. I told them a story about the time friends came to our Manhattan condo and mistook Beatrice and Babs pet beds for floor pillows. It was understandable considering that their round dog beds are covered with with a white and blue design based on a 19th-century French Indienne print that coordinated with our draperies and wall paper. However I did not have a seamstress cover the dog beds, but had bought them at an online store, GoodNightDog, where all their round dog beds have upscale covers. The fabric I chose just happened to match the rest of our decor. Nevertheless,Our friend's kids flopped down on the floor to play Monopoly for the afternoon while we discussed plans for an upcoming vacation. The kids came in to complain how Beatrice and Babs kept trying to climb on the pillows. Once we explained that the floor pillows were actually the dogs' beds that they had usurped and not the other way around, the kids decided that animal and human could easily share the space. That same scenario has happened so many times. Beatrice and Babs love their round pillow dog beds! The evening at the Bat & Ball Inn flew by. It was a shame that we had no room for pudding, but we will definitely return again.
Date of visit: February 2017
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**** customer66
Alderholt, United Kingdom
Reviewed February 13, 2017
Great evening out
Refurbished to a high standard serving good food in a nice atmosphere with friendly staff and beer kept perfectly.
Date of visit: February 2017
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*** NFonslow
Salisbury
Reviewed February 13, 2017
Family birthday
Came just before Christmas and pre-booked the menu choices. We usually enjoy our visits here but this one was not one of the best. Our table was right by the kitchen, lots of noise from there, door constantly opening and staff obviously speeding by us all of the time. Didn't help that there seemed to be a loose floor board that jolted my chair whenever a staff member trod on the other end of it. Won't go into detail about the meals but three were ok, two were sent back (raw meat) of which one was refunded. Desserts were lovely as were the staff.
Hope it was just a one off on a very busy day.
Date of visit: December 2016
Our Menu
As well as our menu below, we have a daily specials board offering more choices (including exotic meats!). Ring us on 01725 512252 for details
- Classics
- Starter
- To Share
- Fajitas
- Salads
- Side Orders
- Steaks
- Pasta
- Sunday Roasts
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Sausage and Mash £8.95
Lambs Liver & Bacon £8.95
Vegetable Tagine (v) £8.95
Aubergine Parmigiani (v) £10.95
Pie of the Day £9.95
Beef Boboite £9.95
BBQ Pork Spare Ribs £10.95
Traditional Beef Lasagne £8.95
Hunters Chicken with a choice of sauces, chips and salad £8.95
Bat and Ball Beef Burger with Cheese, Bacon & Onion Rings £9.95
Scampi & Chips £8.95
Beef Curry £8.95
Beer Battered Cod & Chips £9.95
Mushroom Stroganoff (v) £10.45
Roasted Salmon Fillet with a Shrimp & Dill Sauce £11.95
Pork Loin Steak with Honey & Mustard Sauce and Bubble & Squeak £10.95
Lamb Shank served in a Mint Gravy with Mash & Vegetables £12.95
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Soup of the day £4.95
Mushroom Crostini (v) £4.95
Bobotie Spring Rolls with Mango Chutney £5.45
Chicken Goujons with Sweet Chilli Sauce £5.45
Chicken Liver Pate £5.95
Breaded Whitebait with Citrus Mayo £5.45
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Farmhouse Platter £12.95
Classic Nachos (v) £8.45
Seafood Selection Platter £10.95
Baked Whole Camembert £8.95
Bat & Ball Platter £12.95
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Our fajitas are served with salad and sides of guacamole, sour cream, cheddar cheese and mild salsa
Spicy Vegetable (v) £9.95
Sweet Chilli Chicken £9.95
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All our salads are made with locally sourced fresh leaves and served with freshly baked bread
Chicken Breast, Pesto & Sundried Tomato £9.45
Smoked Mackerel & Horseradish Salad £9.45
Chicken & Bacon Caesar Salad £9.45
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A little extra…
Steak Cut Chips £3.00
Steak Cut Chips topped with Cheddar £4.00
Garlic Ciabatta £3.00
Cheesy Garlic Ciabatta £4.00
Onion Rings £3.00
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Our steaks are cooked how you like them, and are served with a rocket leaf, cherry tomato and feta garnish…
Gammon £8.95 Served with your choice of fried egg or pineapple
8oz Sirloin £13.95
8oz Ribeye £14.95
Add a peppercorn, mushroom and white wine or stilton sauce for an additional £1.50
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Garlic Chicken and Smoked Bacon Penne Pasta £8.95
Sweet Chilli King Prawn Tagliatelle £10.45
Gorgonzola & Walnut Tagliatelle (v) £8.95
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A selection of freshly prepared roast meats available every Sunday, served with fresh vegetables
Beef, Pork or Chicken £8.95
Roast Lamb £9.95
Christmas Party Menu
Starters:
Leek, Potato and Saffron Soup (v)
Smoked Salmon Roulade Stuffed with Cream Cheese, Caper and Dill
Baked Stuffed Portobello Mushroom with Spinach and Blue Cheese (v)
Smoked Duck and Mango Salad with Crispy Bacon and Raspberry Vinaigrette
Chicken Liver, Port and Cranberry Pate, served with Toast
Mains:
Roast Turkey with Sage & Onion Stuffing, Chipolata Sausages
and all the trimmings…
Mushroom, Brie, Spinach and Cranberry Wellington (v)
Served with Mushroom Sauce and New Potatoes.
Baked Salmon Parcel
Stuffed with Smoked Salmon, Prawns and Dill, Wrapped in a Spring Roll Pastry with a Dill Cream Sauce.
Pan Fried Lamb Leg Steak
Served with a Sticky Mint Sauce, Saute Potatoes and Vegetables.
Roast sirloin of Beef
With Yorkshire Pudding, Roast Potatoes, Horseradish Gravy and all the trimmings.
Desserts:
Lemon Posset with Shortbread Fingers (v)
Christmas Pudding (v)
Chocolate Orange Truffle Bar (v)
White Chocolate and Cranberry Cheesecake (v)
Cheese & Biscuits
Coffee & Mince Pies
3 Course £20.95 / 2 Course £17.95
More Background On BatAndBallInn.net
BatAndBallInn.net represents an archived digital footprint of a traditional English country inn and pub located in the village of Breamore, on the edge of the New Forest in southern England. While no longer serving as the primary website for the establishment, it plays an important role in preserving historical content and directing users toward the inn’s current online presence. The site reflects a transitional moment in the business’s digital evolution, capturing details from an earlier era while still maintaining relevance for those searching for the Bat & Ball Inn.
Location and Geographic Significance
The Bat & Ball Inn is situated in Breamore, a picturesque village in Hampshire, England. This location places it within close proximity to the New Forest National Park, one of the UK’s most treasured natural landscapes. Established by William the Conqueror in the 11th century as a royal hunting ground, the New Forest is now a protected area known for its ancient woodlands, heathlands, and free-roaming ponies.
Breamore itself lies within the Avon Valley, a region celebrated for its tranquil beauty and ecological richness. The nearby River Avon is often cited as having one of the most diverse fish populations of any river in Britain, making it a notable destination for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. The inn’s location—just a short drive from Salisbury and near the market town of Fordingbridge—positions it as an ideal stop for travelers exploring southern England.
Ownership and Management
While BatAndBallInn.net does not provide detailed ownership records, the Bat & Ball Inn has historically been operated as a privately managed hospitality business, typical of many rural English pubs. During the period reflected in the archived content, the establishment was overseen by a hands-on landlord known for strong customer engagement and community presence. This style of ownership aligns with the long-standing British tradition of pubs being run by individuals or families who serve as both proprietors and hosts.
Over time, ownership appears to have evolved, with newer operators taking over both the physical establishment and its digital presence. The existence of a newer, separate website suggests a rebranding or modernization effort, while BatAndBallInn.net remains as a legacy domain.
Accommodation and Facilities
One of the distinguishing features of the Bat & Ball Inn is its combination of a traditional pub with on-site lodging. The inn offers accommodations in a lodge format, capable of hosting up to six guests across two apartments. This dual offering caters to both casual visitors and those seeking a more immersive countryside experience.
The upstairs apartment typically accommodates four guests in a shared arrangement, while the ground-floor unit provides a more private setting with an en-suite bedroom. Guests often benefit from breakfast served in the pub, reinforcing the establishment’s emphasis on hospitality and comfort.
This setup appeals to a wide range of visitors, including tourists exploring the New Forest, couples seeking a rural retreat, and families looking for a convenient base of operations.
Dining Experience and Menu Offerings
The Bat & Ball Inn has built a reputation for its diverse and high-quality menu, which blends traditional British pub fare with distinctive international influences—particularly from South Africa. This culinary fusion sets it apart from more conventional pubs and contributes to its popularity.
Typical menu categories include:
- Starters such as soups, crostini, and seafood options
- Classic British mains like fish and chips, pies, and Sunday roasts
- Specialty dishes including curries, tagines, and pasta
- Grilled meats and steaks with customizable sauces
- Vegetarian options such as aubergine parmigiana and mushroom stroganoff
A particularly notable aspect of the menu is its inclusion of South African-inspired dishes like bobotie, as well as occasional offerings of more exotic meats. This reflects the influence of the inn’s management and adds a unique dimension to the dining experience.
In addition to the standard menu, the pub frequently features a daily specials board, allowing chefs to showcase seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. The beverage selection includes local ales—particularly from nearby breweries—as well as a curated range of wines.
Atmosphere and Customer Experience
The Bat & Ball Inn is widely regarded as a quintessential English country pub, characterized by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Features such as open log fires during colder months, a spacious beer garden for warmer weather, and a cozy interior layout contribute to its appeal.
Customer service is frequently highlighted as a standout aspect of the experience. Staff are described as attentive, friendly, and accommodating, even during busy periods. The pub’s ability to maintain efficiency and quality while operating at full capacity has been a recurring theme in visitor feedback.
Live music events, themed evenings, and special culinary experiences—such as traditional South African barbecues (braais)—further enhance the social environment and make the venue a hub of community activity.
Reviews and Public Reception
The Bat & Ball Inn has consistently received strong reviews from patrons, particularly during the 2016–2017 period reflected in the archived content. Visitors often praise:
- The quality and portion sizes of the food
- The speed of service, even when the pub is busy
- The friendliness and professionalism of staff
- The overall value for money
Many reviewers note that the pub is frequently fully booked, indicating a high level of demand and popularity. The ability to attract both local regulars and visitors from surrounding areas speaks to its broad appeal.
While the majority of feedback is positive, occasional criticisms—such as noise levels near the kitchen or isolated issues with food preparation—highlight the challenges of maintaining consistency in a busy hospitality environment. However, these instances appear to be exceptions rather than the norm.
Popularity and Recognition
The Bat & Ball Inn has earned recognition as one of the notable dining destinations within the New Forest region. While not necessarily a formal award winner on a national scale, its inclusion in lists of recommended restaurants and its strong word-of-mouth reputation contribute to its standing.
Its popularity is further reinforced by its consistent ability to draw crowds, particularly during peak travel seasons and weekends. The combination of quality food, unique menu offerings, and a scenic location makes it a compelling choice for both locals and tourists.
Cultural and Social Significance
The Bat & Ball Inn exemplifies the enduring cultural role of the British pub as a social institution. Beyond serving food and drink, it functions as a gathering place where community members and visitors can connect, share experiences, and enjoy a sense of belonging.
Its integration of international culinary influences reflects broader trends in modern British dining, where traditional formats are enriched by global flavors. At the same time, its commitment to hospitality and local engagement preserves the essence of the classic village pub.
Events, shared meals, and casual interactions all contribute to the inn’s role as a social anchor within Breamore and the surrounding area.
Digital Presence and Evolution
BatAndBallInn.net serves as a snapshot of the inn’s earlier digital identity. Rather than being actively updated, it acts as a bridge between past and present, directing users to the current website while preserving historical content.
This type of digital evolution is common among small businesses, particularly those that have undergone ownership changes or rebranding efforts. The retention of the older domain ensures continuity and helps capture traffic from users who may be searching for outdated URLs.
The archived content also provides valuable insights into the inn’s offerings, pricing, and positioning during a specific period, making it a useful resource for understanding its development over time.
Audience and Target Visitors
The Bat & Ball Inn attracts a diverse audience, including:
- Local residents seeking a reliable and welcoming pub
- Tourists exploring the New Forest and surrounding مناطق
- Food enthusiasts interested in unique and high-quality cuisine
- Travelers looking for accommodation in a scenic rural setting
Its ability to cater to both casual diners and overnight guests broadens its appeal and supports a steady flow of business throughout the year.
Proximity to Notable Landmarks
The inn’s location offers convenient access to several notable attractions, including:
- The New Forest National Park, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities
- Salisbury, a historic city famous for its cathedral and medieval architecture
- Fordingbridge, a charming market town with traditional English character
This proximity enhances the inn’s value as both a dining destination and a base for exploration.
Press and Media Coverage
While BatAndBallInn.net itself does not extensively document media coverage, the inn’s reputation and inclusion in regional dining discussions suggest a level of recognition within local press and travel content. Reviews and mentions in online platforms contribute to its visibility and credibility.
Goals and Business Philosophy
The Bat & Ball Inn’s overarching goal appears to center on delivering a high-quality, welcoming experience that combines excellent food, attentive service, and a comfortable environment. Its emphasis on value for money, diverse menu offerings, and community engagement reflects a customer-focused approach.
The incorporation of unique culinary elements, such as South African influences, demonstrates a willingness to differentiate and innovate while maintaining traditional roots.
BatAndBallInn.net offers a valuable window into the history and character of the Bat & Ball Inn, a well-regarded establishment in Breamore, England. Although the site itself is no longer the primary digital platform for the business, it preserves important details about its offerings, reputation, and evolution.
The inn’s combination of scenic location, diverse cuisine, strong customer service, and cultural significance makes it a standout example of the modern British country pub. Whether serving as a lunch stop for travelers exploring the New Forest or as a cozy retreat for overnight guests, the Bat & Ball Inn continues to embody the enduring appeal of traditional hospitality infused with contemporary flair.
