The New Forest is a pretty magical place – roaming ponies, otherworldly landscapes due to the burning of heather and gorse, beautiful ancient woodland – but it’s home to some seriously good ingredients and even better restaurants. The Terrace at The Montagu Arms Hotel has been the jewel in its crown for decades now, and since New Forest native Matt Whitfield joined as head chef in 2019, the cooking is at its peak.

With a substantial kitchen garden and the surrounding area supplying the kitchen with some of the best quality ingredients the UK has to offer, Matt’s cooking allows the produce to take centre stage. The rather grand dining room ensures sophistication with white tablecloths and wood-panelled walls, but the service is far from stuffy. Matt’s more modern approach to fine dining is reflected in the friendly, welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a relaxed – but very special – experience.

Diners can choose from a light lunch menu, four-course dinner menu or the full seven-course tasting menu, which gives Matt the opportunity to showcase exactly what this part of England has to offer. There’s also a Sunday lunch menu offering seriously elevated roasts. The dishes are modern British in style but offer a real insight into the chef, often inspired by the people or places he’s experienced throughout his career (including a stint at the three-starred Eleven Madison Park in New York).

The wine list is, as you’d expect, extensive, but the sommelier has made it as accessible as possible by dividing the bottles up into categories such as ‘light and citrusy’ or ‘smooth and expressive’. There’s a good selection available by the glass, and you can of course opt for flights that are perfectly matched to each dish.

Being part of a country house hotel means many combine a meal at The Terrace with a stay at The Montagu Arms, which houses twenty-four rooms and suites (plus a self-catering cottage on the grounds for those looking for a longer stay). It’s one of the most beautiful hotels in the UK; with Matt’s menu on offer at The Terrace, it’s also home to one of the best culinary experiences you can have.