A HISTORIC country pub said to be one of the oldest in England is our pub of the week.

The Cat and Fiddle, over 400 years old, boasts a rich past. Originally a hospice operated by the monks of Christchurch Priory in the 11th century, it later became a meeting place for smugglers.

Barbara Smith recently took over the venue, moving back to Christchurch after working in London Pubs for nearly 30 years.

(Image: Cat and Fiddle) She said: “I grew up in the area, so for me, it’s like coming home.

“It is such a beautiful, thatched pub, with two open fires, you can feel the history of the building.”

The Cat and Fiddle recently underwent a £2 million renovation to repair the ancient building, including restoring the original bar.

Features include a conservatory, a heated, lit outdoor space ideal for alfresco dining, and a pizza oven.

Barbara said: “They did such a great job of the refurbishment, everything is clean and beautiful.”

On Monday evenings, the pub hosts jazz nights, which will soon extend to Sunday afternoons. Barbara mentioned her hopes of organising a full jazz festival in the pub’s spacious garden in the future.

(Image: Cat and Fiddle) Barbara said: “We have a few things coming up that I’m really excited about.

“On November 2, we’ve got a band booked for a Halloween party and we’re going to decorate the pub. Before Christmas, we will have some wreath making workshops.”

One of the standout features of the Cat and Fiddle is its location. It is on the edge of the New Forest and just ten minutes from Highcliffe beach, making it ideal for a post-walk lunch.

The pub is also very dog-friendly, offering a dedicated dog station with blankets, biscuits, and water.

Good food is a priority for this country pub, with a menu full of  “hearty favourites and country pub classics, as well as our seasonal dishes.”

A well-stocked bar with a plethora of beers, ales, wines, and sustainable drink options can be guaranteed.

Barbara added: “Customer service is the most important thing; guests come to enjoy themselves.

“We offer good service, good food and a great atmosphere.”