Tucked away on the edge of the New Forest in Fordingbridge lies a delightful countryside gem — Hockey’s Farm Shop. More than just a farm shop, this rustic haven invites you to slow down and savour the simple joys of rural life. Picture this: a cosy café serving up hearty homemade bites and comforting drinks, shelves brimming with local produce and quirky treasures, and a small paddock where friendly farm animals wait for a gentle stroke. Whether you’re after a wholesome lunch, a browse through bric-a-brac curiosities, or just a moment of peace among the animals, Hockey’s is a wholesome pit stop with charm to spare.
Our Review:
“What began as a spontaneous countryside lunch stop has quickly turned into a cherished ritual. Nestled in the heart of Fordingbridge on the edge of the New Forest, Hockey’s Farm Shop has become our go-to haven before setting off on cruises from Southampton — and it never disappoints.
Our visits have always been marked by hearty, satisfying food and a welcoming atmosphere. Each time, we’ve tucked into perfectly toasted paninis, rich in flavour and generously filled — just the kind of fuel you want before a journey. My partner is particularly fond of their coffee: strong, aromatic, and consistently well-made. The prices, especially for this area, are refreshingly reasonable, which only adds to the appeal.
The café itself offers a variety of seating options to suit every mood and season — cosy spots indoors, a covered outdoor area for those who like a bit of fresh air without the weather gamble, and open-air seating where you can soak up the rural views. The food presentation is simple and familiar, just as you’d expect from a countryside café: nothing flashy, but always appetising and served with a smile.
But Hockey’s is more than just a pit stop for food. There’s something deeply comforting about its setting — a true pastoral dream. After our meal, we often wander into the quaint bric-a-brac shop, a treasure trove of knick-knacks and nostalgia, and then into the well-stocked farm shop brimming with local goodies. On one visit, we stumbled upon their cookies — thick, golden, and utterly divine. Safe to say, they didn’t last long once we got back in the car.
One of the highlights that makes Hockey’s stand out is the small animal area. Watching (and even stroking) the friendly farm animals adds a wholesome touch that makes the whole experience feel extra special— especially for kids or the young at heart.
Add to all this the convenience of ample parking — a rare treat in the New Forest — and it’s easy to see why Hockey’s has earned a permanent spot in our travel plans. Whether you’re stopping for lunch, a browse, or a cookie-filled car snack, this countryside gem is well worth the detour.
Pros & Cons:
- Family friendly✅
- Reasonable prices✅
- Limited hot meal options❌
Gourmet Gauge:
The scores reflect the great food quality and customer service. The presentation is what you would expect from a cafe, and the value for money is great considering its location in The New Forest.
Taste: 7/10 🥄
Presentation: 6/10 🍽️
Ambience: 7/10 🕯️
Service: 7/10 🧑🍳
Value for Money: 7/10💰
Total: 34/50 Worth A Visit!
You can find Hockey’s Farm Shop at the following location:
Hockey’s Farm Shop
South Gorley
Fordingbridge
SP6 2PW
Head to their website at: hockeys-farm.co.uk
Check out their social media channels down below:
The Taste Trekker 
Leave a comment