The Mailmans Arms in Lyndhurst undergoes major £130k makeover under Maria and Steve Harris

A Lyndhurst pub has undergone a £130,000 transformation after being taken over by the award-winning local publicans.

The Mailmans Arms, a 16th century coaching inn located on the High Street, is run by Maria and Steve Harris, who are also at the helm of The Stag next door.

It is now sporting a vibrant interior, with many of the new fixtures and fittings sourced from traders in the village; and the five guest rooms have also had a makeover.

The venue’s exterior has been spruced up too, and a new addition, the ‘Dog House’, features pool tables, darts boards and a big screen so guests can watch sport.

On the menu is street food and Asian-inspired dishes, with the bao buns proving the most popular so far, along with a modern twist on a Sunday roast.

The couple, who also run The Old Mill in Salisbury, said they were “delighted” to be opening their pub.

“Located next door to our award-winning pub The Stag, taking on The Mailmans Arms too was a no-brainer,” they said.

“It has a different offer to The Stag. Its more funky, modern and serves small plate food that is Asian inspired. But it still has the great atmosphere, quality and service all our pubs are known for.

“With our guest rooms complete, we cannot wait to welcome tourists to the New Forest this spring and summer.”

Rob Ayling, business development manager for Greene King Pub Partners, said: “I am over the moon for Maria and Steve, whose pub business continues to go from strength to strength.

“Working with them is a real pleasure and I am sure the locals of Lyndhurst, visitors to the area and tourists will all equally enjoy what they have done with The Mailmans Arms.”

Last year, The Stag was named Greene King Pub of the Year at the Great British Pub Awards, with Maria and Steve praised for their “innovative approach” and for “establishing themselves at the heart of the community”.

It was one of just 17 pubs across the country, from thousands of entries, to receive an accolade, with categories ranging from Best Pub for Food to Best Pub for Sport and Best Pub Garden.

Having taken on the premises in February 2020, just before the Covid pandemic hit and having never worked in the hospitality industry before, Maria and Steve raised tens of thousands for local good causes and allowed community groups the use of their facilities free of charge.

For more information on The Mailmans Arms, visit www.themailmans.co.uk