The Lighthouse — Restaurant in New Forest

We visited The Lighthouse after reading lots of glowing reviews, but unfortunately, our experience was really disappointing, especially when it came to handling allergies.There were a few dietary restrictions at our table, and the staff seemed quite unprepared to manage them. We were told that the breakfast could be made gluten-free simply by swapping the toast. When we asked whether the sausages, hash browns, and other items were also gluten-free, we were reassured that they were. Thankfully, we pressed them to double-check with the kitchen, only to find out that most of the items actually weren’t gluten-free at all. Had we not questioned it, we could’ve ended up eating something unsafe. In the end, I had to settle for just bacon and beans. I was later told they could fry hash browns in separate oil to make them safe, which I agreed to, but then they brought out completely frozen hash browns which I sent back. They then brought out new hashbrowns for me, but not gluten free ones. Overall, it was a frustrating experience, especially for anyone with allergies or intolerances. The staff didn’t seem knowledgeable or confident in managing dietary requirements, and the whole situation felt disorganised. Sadly, I wouldn’t return or recommend this place to anyone with specific...

We were looking for somewhere special to go in or around the BCP area. I was recommended to try the Lighthouse and I was very pleased we did.

The accessibility is great- they have a private car park right next to the restaurant and you can for a walk along the spit with amazing views of the Isle of Wight before sitting down to eat.

Even eating at the early time of 5pm, there was good atmosphere in the restaurant. They were very welcoming to our dogs and our toddler, which is always much appreciated. There was a dedicated children’s menu and our toddler got special cutlery and a plastic cup. Her meal of sausage and chips included two large good quality sausages.

The menu is more varied than your average seaside menu. Within our group we had seafood and chorizo paella, crab and prawn spaghetti, a steak, fish and chips; and scampi and chips. Every plate clean when they returned to the kitchen.

The drinks menu was also good quality and I had a lovely virgin cocktail as well as a non-alcoholic cider.

Our server Heidi was lovely and could not have been more helpful. We will definitely be returning and will be recommending the...

It was New Years Day with gale force winds and the team at The Lighthouse were run off their feet with people trying to seek sanctuary from the storm, yet the staff were friendly, welcoming and committed to making sure we had a wonderful time. Due to the storm, we turned up 45 minutes early but the team were happy to seat us. Our group of four adults, one child and a baby ate a variety of meals from burgers, fish and chips the catch of the day (sea bass) and a special (chalk stream trout). All of the food arrived efficiently and was delicious. I had the trout and it was honestly one of the best fish dishes I've ever had, the chef even accommodated my dairy allergy in its preparation. The deserts were also great, and again the team were able to provide a small adjustment to one to make it vegan. Overall a first class experience, and got our 2025 off to the very best start. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend The Lighthouse to...