Have You Heard the One About the Horse That Went to The Car Dealership?

It is not often that I will write a personal blog however I feel impelled to following a weekend break in Brockenhurst, located in the beautiful New Forest.

My intrepid companions, my partner and trusty puppy, headed off on the train for the short journey from Bournemouth to sample some of the scenic delights slighty further afield.

Our hotel, The Watersplash, hosted our visit and we quickly set off once checked-in to take the dog for a walk and explore. The stroll around the heart of the village was an emphemeral wander as we witnessed a journey into a dying way of life.

The few public houses, local butcher, hairdresser, optician and fruit and vegetable shop sat alongside a collection of tea rooms and restaurants. Even a tidy football ground was present. Only a small Tesco Express blotted the copybook.

From this more than adequate base, the close proximity of open land, rolling fields and the Forest itself make Brockenhurst the ideal destination to venture into the countryside.

Our evening was also memorable, refining our palettes at Brookley's bistro, a fantastic eatery with an excellent fusion of French cuisine and local produce. I heartily recommend the venison, in a delicious red wine sauce.

As for the title heading, no article or blog related to the New Forest could fail to mention the nonchalant New Forest ponies and horses, grazing to get their fill besides displaying an adventurous spirit.

Turning a corner to revisit the hotel to collect our belongings, one such chap could be seen peering into a car dealership. Although if I were him, I would much rather stick around rather than drive off, even though it was a bloody cold weekend.