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5 Things You Didn’t Know About the New Forest (And How Beer Fits In)

The New Forest is more than just a beautiful stretch of greenery; it’s a place steeped in history, brimming with quirky traditions, and home to some of the most unique sights in the UK. At PIG BEER, we’re lucky to call this special place home, and we take inspiration from the forest in everything we do—from the ingredients we use to the way we approach brewing.

Here are five fascinating things you might not know about the New Forest—and how beer fits perfectly into the mix.


1. Why Ponies Roam Freely in the New Forest

One of the first things visitors notice when they arrive in the New Forest is the abundance of free-roaming ponies. These iconic animals are known as New Forest ponies, and they’ve been grazing here for over 1,000 years. The reason they’re allowed to wander so freely is thanks to a tradition called commoning, where locals (known as commoners) have the right to graze their animals on the forest’s open land.

Sheep and lambs on pig beer brewery in the new forest.

The ponies aren’t just here for show—they play an important role in maintaining the heathland ecosystem by grazing on overgrown vegetation.

How Beer Fits In: At PIG BEER, we are just over a cattle grid so we don't get many ponies but we have our own sheep to graze our hop field. Just like the ponies, we believe in preserving the natural balance of the forest, which is why sustainability is a cornerstone of our brewing process.


2. The New Forest’s Ancient Rights

The New Forest has a rich history that dates back to 1079, when it was declared a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror. This designation granted locals a set of ancient rights, many of which are still in place today. These include the right to graze livestock, collect firewood, and even forage for wild mushrooms.

Harry picking hops for pig beer

How Beer Fits In: We like to think of our brewery as a modern-day nod to these ancient traditions. Our brewing process is all about using the best natural ingredients and respecting the land we’re lucky to work on. While we don’t forage for hops, our beers are inspired by the seasonal changes and flavours of the forest.




3. The Legend of the Rufus Stone

History buffs will love the tale of the Rufus Stone, a famous landmark in the New Forest. It marks the spot where King William II (known as William Rufus) was supposedly killed by an arrow during a hunting trip in 1100. The circumstances surrounding his death are shrouded in mystery, with some suggesting it was an accident, while others believe it was an assassination.

The New Forest is full of such legends, making it a place where history feels alive.

How Beer Fits In: Like the story of the Rufus Stone, our beers each have their own little tale to tell. Every brew we create is crafted with care and a touch of storytelling, from the flavour profiles to the names. Next time you sip a pint of PIG BEER, think about the rich history that surrounds us—it’s in every drop.


4. The Role of the Verderers

Ever heard of a Verderer? These officials have been managing the New Forest since medieval times, ensuring its wildlife and landscapes are protected. Today, the Verderers work closely with organisations like Forestry England to balance conservation efforts with the needs of local communities.

Their work is a reminder of the importance of sustainability, which is something we take seriously at PIG BEER.

How Beer Fits In: Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Our brewery operates with a 20,000-litre greywater harvesting tank that irrigates our on-site hop plantation. We also use electricity from renewable sources and offset our carbon footprint wherever possible. Just like the Verderers, we’re committed to protecting this beautiful corner of the world.

Pig Beer staff together laughing while holding beers.

5. The New Forest’s Food and Drink Scene

The New Forest isn’t just about stunning views and wildlife—it’s also a foodie’s paradise. From local farmers’ markets to award-winning restaurants, the area is bursting with fresh, seasonal produce.

Craft beer plays a big role in this vibrant food scene, with breweries like PIG BEER offering a taste of the forest in every pint. Whether it’s pairing our STORM IPA with spicy tacos at Street food Saturday or enjoying a bottle of SESSION alongside fish and chips, beer and food go hand in hand here.

How Beer Fits In: We’re proud to be part of the New Forest’s thriving food and drink community. Our taproom and beer tent provide a relaxed space for locals and visitors to enjoy fresh beer, good food, and even better company. It’s a chance to experience the true spirit of the forest—one pint at a time.


Why PIG BEER is the Perfect Stop in the New Forest

At PIG BEER, we’re not just a brewery; we’re part of the New Forest story. From the ponies that wander by to the local ingredients that inspire our beers, everything we do is deeply connected to this incredible place.

When you visit us, you’re not just stopping for a pint—you’re stepping into a world of history, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re enjoying a crisp lager in our beer garden or picking up a mini keg for your next gathering, you’re taking a little piece of the New Forest with you.


Ready to experience the magic of the New Forest and PIG BEER for yourself? Our brewery is open daily, and we’d love to welcome you for a pint, a chat, or even one of our legendary Street Food Saturdays.

Come for the beer, stay for the stories, and leave with a newfound appreciation for this unique corner of the world. Cheers! 🍻







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