Lymington

The historic market town of Lymington provides a perfect year-round escape within the New Forest, as its prime location blends the very best of country and waterside living.

Famous throughout the times for its boat-building expertise and salt exports, Lymington has always reaped the rewards of its fruitful position on the River (Not all business has been so above board though. legend has it that smugglers once traded contraband beneath the streets through a network of secret passages. Robinson Crusoe author, Daniel Defoe, complained of the "rogueing and smuggling" he found here on his travels in 1720!).

The Georgian High Street boasts an eclectic mix of boutique, independent and well-known shops to peruse. Carrying on a tradition that dates back from 1250, a diverse and bustling market fills the town centre every Saturday come rain or shine! Whatever your taste, there are also a vast selection of cafes and eateries to choose from in and around the town- from pizza and pub grub through to locally caught shellfish.

South of the High Street, a cobbled path leads you to the picturesque Quay. Sit and watch the world sail by whilst tucking into fish & chips or ice-cream, or try out your sea legs with one of the boat trips that set off from here!

Home to two large marinas (and Olympic Gold medallist, Ben Ainslie), the Lymington River feeds into the Solent where yachtsmen, fisherman and thrill seekers alike share the waters for business and pleasure. If you fancy a dip, the st Seawater Baths in the country are open throughout the summer months!

For those preferring to stay dry, a brisk walk around the Sea Wall is sure to blow away the cobwebs (and give you a fantastic view of the Isle of Wight and Hurst Castle), or there are a number of enchanting gardens in the area to inspire you. Perfect for day trips, the Isle of Wight is also just a stone's throw away as a 40 minute ferry ride will take you across the scenic 4 mile stretch of water.

There are a wide selection of Lymington B and B's (Bed and Breakfasts) on offer; from family friendly houses and hideaways, to historic hotels. Whatever your requirements, I hope this website helps you find the perfect Lymington B+B!

View all Lymington Bed and Breakfasts (B&B's)

Surrounding Villages

Across the river, and just a few miles from Lymington, you'll find the neighbouring villages of Pilley, Norley Wood and East End. Providing unspoilt woodland to stroll through, or picnic in, these charming and peaceful hamlets let you relax and escape from the outside world to absorb the beautiful natural surroundings of the New Forest.

TOP TIP! Tanners Lane is a hidden gem known to few! Follow this windy road to find a hidden rustic beach boasting some of the best coastal views in the South!

Following the Solent Way around the Lymington sea wall and Pennington / Keyhaven nature reserve you will find Keyhaven, Hurst Castle and the pretty seaside village of Milford-on-Sea.

Lymington Attractions

The Solent Way
Coastal New Forest

Is a 60-mile long-distance coastal walking route from the seaside town of Milford-on-Sea past the hustle and bustle of seafronts, quiet yachting harbours, deserted marshland and saltings to finish at Emsworth Harbour. No other path is so awash with naval history.

solentway.co.uk

Hurst Castle
Hurst

Built by Henry VIII in 1544, was one of a chain of coastal fortresses, and is located at the end of a shingle spit which extends 1.5 miles from Milford-on-Sea. The end of the spit is only 0.75 miles from the Isle of Wight. Access is either on foot, or by ferry from Keyhaven.

hurstcastle.co.uk

Sea Water Baths
Lymington

Fully staffed 110 meter outdoor sea water pool with: inflatable obstacle courses, water zorbs, stand up paddle boards, kayaks, aqua jousting, children's splash pool & sandpit, Confectionery kiosk/cafe, toilets, changing rooms & showers, disabled access & facilities.

lymingtonseawaterbaths.org.uk

Vinegar Hill Pottery
Milford-on-Sea

Try your hand at a spot of pottery in the beautiful coastal town of Milford-on-Sea. It doesn't matter how much potting experience you have. There are only seven places per pottery course meaning each course will be tailored to your level of skill and your creativity.

vinegarhillpottery.co.uk

Annual Events & Markets

Lymington Charter Market
EVERY SATURDAY - 08:00 - 17:00
Bag yourself a bargain at the Lymington Charter Market, that has been running weekly in the town since the mid-13th Century. Today you can browse stalls from 100 independent local traders, producers and artisians.
www.lymingtonmarket.co.uk

Lymington Seafood Festival
July
A celebration of Lymington's rich cultural heritage, local produce and links to the sea.
www.lymingtonseafoodfestival.co.uk

Oakhaven Hospice Santa Dash
December
Take part in this 3k fun run, walk, hop, skip or jump – whatever you fancy! Start you Christmas with some fabulous, family fun.
www.oakhavenhospice.co.uk

For more events in Lymington please view the New Forest Event Calendar