What’s The Cromwell Arms like?
If you’re keen to experience some Hampshire hospitality, check in to The Cromwell Arms. This gorgeous gastropub, run by Fuller’s, is a great place to drink, dine and stay on the South Coast. The River Test – famed for fly fishing – practically runs past the front door and the area’s angling success is celebrated throughout, making the pub a real must-visit for fishing fans.
How dog-friendly is The Cromwell Arms?
Very. There are plenty of water bowls dotted around, both inside and out. Ernie also clocked a big jar of treats at reception, which he kept leading us back to. Pets are welcome to stay in certain rooms for an additional £8 per night but only one dog is allowed at a time. They are also welcome in the bar and orangery, but not in the main restaurant.
Tell me more about The Cromwell Arms
We stayed in the super-stylish Dawson’s Olive room, which is named after a famous trout lure. When we visited, the Deluxe room had only been open to guests for about six weeks. It is housed in a new extension, accessed via a conservatory-style corridor. Handily, this runs alongside a small enclosed garden, making late night and early morning ablutions a breeze.
The room had a warm, homely feel and was tastefully themed around fishing, with angling posters and fly fishing lures on display. The retro light fittings may have been a nod to the past, but the room had all the latest technology, such as a DAB radio. There was a bottle of Fuller’s London Pride beer waiting for us, as well as a Nespresso coffee machine, Teapigs tea and homemade shortbread.
I loved the clever, space-saving design touches – the fridge on the wall was a great idea and the curved bathroom was a striking addition to the room, especially when teamed with the bold feature tiles. The fluffy white robes and Cole & Lewis toiletries were also much appreciated.
What’s the food like at The Cromwell Arms?
Delicious, and many dishes champion local produce. The “social plates” – which include breaded halloumi and black pudding croquettes – make great light bites, while the main meals have something for everyone. The Sunday roasts are also a hit with both locals and guests.
I was impressed with the drinks on offer, too. Not only does the bar stock gin from all over the world but there’s also a great choice of cocktails. Breakfast is a fine affair too, and the service is super-speedy. Ernie joined us for both dinner and breakfast in the beautiful orangery beside the bar. It’s a really lovely space which, during the summer months, opens right out onto the courtyard area.
Are there resident dogs at The Cromwell Arms?
No, but you will probably encounter several other dogs and their owners in the bar area.
Where are the best dog walks near The Cromwell Arms?
The pub is located in the Test Valley which is arguably one of the prettiest parts of Hampshire. You won’t go short of riverside walks, thanks to the River Test – one of the finest trout and salmon rivers in Europe. It practically runs past the pub. Look out for the gravel road next to it, which will take you to Romsey’s War Memorial Park.
Lovely walks can also be enjoyed in the grounds of the National Trust’s Mottisfont Abbey (pictured above), which is home to the National Rose Collection. Maps show where dog walkers can and can’t go but to see the highlights, the Trust recommends a six-mile walk around the estate, which takes two hours. Spearywell Wood, a 15-minute walk from the abbey, is also well worth exploring.
From The Cromwell Arms, it’s a short stroll into Romsey itself, which has a Norman Abbey dating back to 907 AD. The cathedral cities of Salisbury and Winchester are also both within a 30-minute drive.
What Ernie loved about The Cromwell Arms
His breakfast sausage, making a den under the desk in the room, the variety of walks nearby
What I loved about The Cromwell Arms
The stylish rooms, the great selection of drinks behind the bar, the general pub vibe
How to book The Cromwell Arms
Rooms start from £95 per night, including breakfast. If you book direct via the pub’s official website, you can generally save 10% on stays. For more information, call 01794 519515 or visit The Cromwell Arms website.