The Fisher's Pond, Eastleigh

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The Fisher's Pond in Eastleigh is one of those pleasant surprises you least expect! We found this Vintage Inn whilst driving past, and we are so glad we did. So much so that we've been back twice since!

Set in a tranquil location overlooking Fisher's Pond, with a traditional English Country feel, it has one of the best outdoor pub gardens in Hampshire, sitting right next to the water's edge. Formerly a tea room called Fisher's Cafe, the pub is just over 10 minutes drive from Eastleigh, 20 minutes from Winchester and 25 minutes from Southampton. Fisher's Pond is close to Marwell Zoo , Itchen Valley Country Park and surrounded by unspoilt ancient woodland and water meadows, perfect for exploring. It is also home to the Fisher's Pond Fishery and Farm.



Although a family-friendly pub, there isn't much to do for the little ones in this establishment. It felt like quite a grown-up venue, as on both occasions, the outdoor patio area was mainly couples and smaller groups of adults. Here you'll find a good mix of dining tables to lounge chairs for a more relaxed vibe.

The inside decor is just as impressive as the outside atmosphere. Familiar. Comfortable. Snug. There would be nothing wrong with being wrapped up warm with an open fire during winter, sipping a glass of red wine, with good company beside you. The conservatory area is light and breezy, in contrast to the cosy corner nooks around the restaurant.





The Fisher's Pond menu is considerate to various tastes and appetites. From nibbles whilst you decide to sharers, grazers, chef's specialities, steaks, chargrilled skewers, burgers and pizzas. Some of our favourites are the King Prawn and Mango cocktail, and Baked Eggs Shakshuka to start. Followed by Bloody Mary Salmon Fishcakes and Pulled Beef Brisket Hash for lunch. For dinner, it's hard to choose between the Forestiere Chicken Breast, Beef Rib with Miso Butter, Scottish Rainbow Trout or Nourish Bowl with Halloumi.



Their all-day menu is delicious, and this is even before considering they have a Brunch menu, Sunday roast menu and one for Children too. For dessert, try the Baked Orchard or the White Chocolate and Raspberry Tart. Join the Vintage Inn Club and you can get one for free!

We decided on a sharer and grazer with a Sticky Platter full of maple-glazed chicken wings, crispy prawns, chilli jam glazed lamb koftas, hummus, tzatziki, bumbu bali mayonnaise and stone-baked flatbread. The Baked Honey & Truffle Brie was tempting, but the platter range was just too inviting - and it didn't disappoint. It didn't last long either - not even long enough for a photo opportunity!

You can order at the bar or through their table service app. Either way, the service was friendly, from entering the pub to a goodbye when leaving. Both food and drinks were served quickly, especially considering how busy they were on a balmy evening.



Eating outside makes it tempting to feed the lake's swans and their fluffy baby ducklings as they glide past in anticipation. And this is actually encouraged! There isn't a mad influx of wing-flapping birds coming at you when feeding them though as they look like they are quite used to the offcuts! This is always a good thing!

We are so glad we've found this Vintage pub and will no doubt be back again to The Fisher's Pond. It will be interesting to see the ambience in the winter, but sure it won't disappoint. From their social media pages, there is a pride around their Roast Menu so we think a Sunday Festive Roast is already planned in. Definitely, one to add to the favourites list, and perfect that it's just a short distance from Southampton.



Book a table online , or if you prefer to sit outside, just turn up and find a table.

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