OUR STORY
A place by the river, with stories to tell.
Beside the River Avon and the historic Great Bridge, The George has been part of Fordingbridge life for generations.
A warm welcome, a beautiful setting and centuries of stories.
THE GEORGE · FORDINGBRIDGE
Part of the town’s story for centuries.
From its riverside position to the people who have passed through its doors, The George has a history closely connected with Fordingbridge and the River Avon.
AN INN ON THIS SITE SINCE AT LEAST 1593
OUR HISTORY
A familiar place through changing times
Historical accounts trace an inn on this riverside site back to at least 1593, when it was known as Le George.
Over the years, the pub has also been known as The Great George, before becoming simply The George.
Much has changed around it, but the pub’s position beside the river and bridge remains central to its character.
OUR RIVERSIDE SETTING
The bridge that gave the town its name
The Great Bridge stands alongside The George, with seven historic arches spanning the River Avon.
The Grade II* listed landmark contains medieval stonework dating to the 14th or 15th century and forms a memorable backdrop to the pub’s riverside terrace.
TALES FROM THE PAST
Tea, rum and a little intrigue
One of The George’s most colourful stories involves the notorious smuggler Captain Diamond.
According to a local historical account, Diamond and his companions gathered in the yard of The George Inn to divide a haul of smuggled tea. Customs officers and soldiers arrived, and a violent confrontation followed.
Whether Captain Diamond ever stopped for a pint here is something we can only imagine.
THE GEORGE TODAY
Still a place to get together
Today, The George is a place to enjoy good food, catch up with friends and family, or relax over a drink beside the water.
Our riverside terrace is a lovely spot on warmer days, while inside you’ll find a welcoming pub atmosphere throughout the year.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome too, with their own menu.
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE PUB
Meet the Team
From our kitchen to the bar and the people welcoming guests, it’s the team who give The George its character.
DISCOVER THE AREA
A welcome stop near the New Forest
Fordingbridge sits on the edge of the New Forest, close to countryside walks, the Avon Valley and plenty of places to explore.
Whether you’re staying at Sandy Balls, spending a day in Fordingbridge or exploring the wider New Forest, The George is a welcoming place to stop for food and drinks.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Find us beside the river
The George
14 Bridge Street
Fordingbridge
Hampshire
SP6 1AH
We do not have a car park, however there are two large car parks a short walk from us.
One in the centre of the town, and one over the bridge by the play park.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU
Make yourself at home at
The George
Whether it’s your first visit or you know us well, there’s always a good reason to spend time by the river.