ONE of the New Forest's oldest and best-known pubs is up for sale.

The 17th century Waterloo Arms, in Pikes Hill, Lyndhurst, is run by Paul Hingston, who is retiring from the licensing trade on health grounds.

The sale of the picture postcard pub, at an asking price of nearly £240,000, is being handled by the Winchester office of Christie + Co.

Warm welcome A Christie spokesman said: "The Waterloo Arms is a well-known pub with a good reputation for its warm welcome, fine ales and extensive menu.

"The pub serves traditional, freshly prepared home-cooked food, with local game, fresh fish and seafood a speciality."

The spokesman said that the property comprised a main bar with a wealth of character features and a 60-cover restaurant with patio doors leading to an attractive garden.

He added: "Mr Hingston has owned and operated the business for two years and is reluctantly retiring from the licensed trade for health reasons.

"He has established the Waterloo Arms as a destination food venue as well as a popular community pub.

"The sale of the Waterloo Arms presents a superb opportunity to acquire a character food-led public house in the heart of the Forest."