Lymington

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The historic town of Lymington offers plenty for the visitor to the New Forest. This colourful coastal town is an ancient seaport with a rich maritime history.

Situated on the west bank of the Lymington River, on the edge of the Solent, Lymington is a major yachting centre with three marinas.

The town began as an Anglo-Saxon village and is recorded in the Domesday Book as ‘Lentune’. From the Middle Ages and up to the 19th century, Lymington was well-known for its salt making and from the early 19th century a thriving ship building industry.

Much of the architecture you see today in Lymington is Georgian and Victorian. The High Street, which looks predominantly Georgian, is in fact made up of an eclectic mix of Georgian, Victorian, Art Deco with some traces of Medieval architecture.

At the top of the High Street sits the Church of St Thomas. A church has been at this location since the mid-thirteenth century and parts of the current church date back from the early thirteenth century. This Grade II Listed building was badly damaged during the English Civil War, when Puritans occupied it. Over subsequent centuries architectural additions have been added to the building including the tower and cupola. Within the church take a look at the magnificent glass doors and needlework.

With its strong maritime connections, it doesn’t come as a surprise to learn that Lymington was once famous for smuggling. The vicar of the Church of St Thomas once used to allow smugglers to store their contraband within the church’s tower!

Things to do in Lymington

You will never be bored in Lymington with all of the fantastic things to do in this lovely town. Head on down to Lymington on a Saturday and enjoy the hustle and bustle of a traditional street market along the High Street. The popular market offers everything from local fine foods to craftwork and antiques and has around 100 stalls. Soak up the history of this market which has had a charter from 1250.

Visit the family-friendly St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery which occupies a former Victorian school building. The museum takes visitors on a journey of the history of Lymington from the times of William the Conqueror through to World War II. It also houses temporary exhibitions. An on-site café makes a welcome stop and is open to people even if they aren’t going into the museum or art gallery.

Make a wander through the pretty cobbled streets of the old town and on to The Quay to watch the luxury yachts and fishing boats come and go.

Near to the Royal Lymington Yacht Club you will find Lymington’s famous sea water baths which date back to 1833. These are the oldest sea water baths in the UK and are a popular addition to the town in the summer months. To this day, visitors can bathe in these waters and offer not only swimming but inflatable fun, stand up paddle boarding and aqua jousting.

If you enjoy walking then a bracing walk along the 10 miles of nearby Lymington to Keyhaven nature reserve is a must. Look out for wetland birds, take in views of The Needles on the Isle of Wight and breathe in the fresh, salty air.

Take a boat trip from the quayside and enjoy views of the marina and towards the Solent to see the Isle of Wight. A variety of different trips are available. Another way to take to the waters is with Escape Yachting, who offer relaxing sailing experiences including sunset cruises.

Lymington boasts a wide range of unique and interesting shops including several boutiques, great for picking up a new outfit or simply a souvenir of your visit!

Whilst on your visit to Lymington, don’t forget to look out for the gold post box, a tribute to Sir Ben Ainslie for winning Gold in the London 2012 Olympics.

Events in Lymington

As well as the regular markets, Lymington holds a variety of events throughout the year. The Lymington Seafood Festival descends on the town for a weekend in the middle of August bringing with it stalls, cookery demonstrations and a live music stage.

The Lymington Centre offers cinema, theatre and comedy for locals and visitors and the St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery has events throughout the year including exhibitions, family activities and workshops.

The 2019 event was amazingly successful, so if you're a dog owner or a dog lover make sure you head to Dogstival in 2020, taking place on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May. A boutique festival held at Pylewell Park, located about 5 minutes from Lymington. It’s a celebration of everything brilliant our four-legged best friends bring to our lives and the ultimate day out for anyone who is bonkers about dogs. Expect dazzling displays, activities to try, delicious treats, fantastic gifts, experts talks and more - all in the heart of one of the UK’s most dog-friendly areas. Visitors can expect over 200 quality stalls catering to a dog’s (and humans!) every need, as well as lots of wonderful goods, gifts and artisan food and drink from New Forest producers.

In the summer, look out for the Lymington Carnival (usually taking place in July).

Sailing enthusiasts will enjoy the regattas and the popular Thursday evening racing hosted by the Royal Lymington Yacht Club.

Keep an eye on our what’s on pages as we share with you details of other events coming up in and around Lymington.

Places to stay in Lymington

If you're looking to take a break in Lymington, there are plenty of places to stay to choose from. There are a couple of hotels that can be found near to Lymington town centre; Passford House Hotel and Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel & Resort, both offering swimming pools. Or try the Mill at Gordleton, set halfway between Lymington and Sway.

There are a variety of B&Bs and Guest Houses on offer in and around Lymington including Victorian cottages, a converted barn and many properties offering both en-suite facilities and on-site parking.

If you prefer self-catered options then look out for several self-catering properties and holiday cottages or lodges at such as Hackney Park and Kings Hyde Cottage. Use the search box on this page to check the types of property on offer and their availability for when you plan on visiting.

Where to eat and drink in Lymington

Relax and enjoy some delicious food and drink in one of the many fine-dining establishments Lymington has to offer. You will find loads of places to eat along the High Street and around the quay, perhaps a spot of afternoon tea one of the town’s charming tea rooms and cafes is what you need or maybe some classic pub grub at one of the many watering holes in the town.

Getting to Lymington

Lymington has its own railway station. Mainline trains link London Waterloo to nearby Brockenhurst, there’s then a short journey by train or bus to Lymington.

Regular bus services with Bluestar connect Lymington from Bournemouth and Southampton.

There is a regular ferry service from the Isle of Wight offered by Wightlink ferries.

Highlights

New Forest Cottages

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Grafton Holiday Home

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Lytton Lawn Touring Park

Lytton Lawn offers spectacular views over the Isle of Wight, and is a wonderful camping and touring…

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722 reviews
Shorefield Country Park

Milford-on-Sea
Awards

Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
Set near the scenic Milford on Sea clifftop, Shorefield Country Park is an award-winning, family run holiday park based in the south of the New Forest. With plenty of open spaces to discover right on your doorstep, from the rolling landscapes of the…
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- Up to £200 off summer holidays
  Looking for a fantastic UK staycation this summer? Save up to an extra £200 on lodge getaways or £75 on our self-catered caravan accommodation this summer! Valid for short breaks (2, 3 or 4 nights) arriving before the 30th August.
  Please note that 2020 bookings are for our new-look getaways, without all our usual facilities. All 2020 holidays are covered by our Coronavirus Booking Guarantee.
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New Forest Cottages

Lymington
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With over 150 holiday cottages to choose from, New Forest Cottages will help you find your perfect family holiday, dog friendly cottage or romantic break.
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Lymington Seafood Festival

Lymington

Two days of fishy fun, delicious food and drink stalls from local artisan producers. Taking place at Bath Road in Lymington on 8 and 9 August 2020. With demonstration kitchens to feed your culinary curiosity, plus our live music stage to keep the…

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Dogstival

Burley

It’s music to a dog’s ears, Dogstival is back and gearing up for a weekend of entertainment not to be missed. The idyllic Burley Park is set to host thousands of four-legged festival goers on the 5th and 6th September.

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940 reviews
Passford House Hotel

Lymington
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A traditional country house with beautiful gardens. The Dining Room serves traditional & contemporary cuisine, with attentive yet unobtrusive service & cosy lounges. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, sauna & gym
Special Offers
- STAYCATION OFFER
  Stay For Six Nights & Only Pay For Four!!
  From £595.00 per Double Room Saving from £300.00!!
  Why choose Passford House Hotel to enjoy your Staycation?
  The answer is simple. With an indoor and outdoor pool, two croquet lawns, mini putting, ping-pong table, petanque and a tennis court it will be easy to keep everyone entertained. Within our 10 acre gardens is our very own interpretation of Monet garden where you can relax after all those activities!
  What can we do in the area?
  We are a five minute drive from the Georgian market town Lymington. A short walk and you will be in the New Forest surrounded by nature and only a short drive from the beach. We are so lucky to have the forest, beach and town all on our doorstep.
  * Based on two people sharing. Rates are subject to change. This offer is subject to availability. This offer is available from Saturday 4th July 2020 until Monday 2nd November 2020. Cheapest nights free. This offer can be withdrawn at any time. Cannot be used with any other offer. £100.00 non-refundable, but transferable deposit to be taken upon booking the remaining balance will be taken upon the day of arrival.
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  or call us on 01590 682398 (phone lines open 9.15am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday), email sales@passfordhousehotel.co.uk
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- Sunday Funday
  Arrive as early as you like on Sunday to make the most of the hotel’s extensive facilities. Explore the 10 acres of gardens, enjoy the heated indoor pool, sauna or even a game of croquet on the lawn if the weather permits! Head out and explore the New Forest right on our doorstep. Or if you just fancy taking it easy then why not join us for a leisurely Sunday lunch, or even a massage!
  For only £70 per person, which includes dinner*, bed & breakfast in a standard double room.
  *Dinner includes a £30.00 allowance from the a la carte menu, per person. This offer is not available on Bank Holiday weekends, and is subject to availability. Check in is from 4pm.
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  CLICK HERE for more information
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Passford House Hotel Wedding Ceremony Venue

Lymington

We hold a license for civil ceremonies and civil partnerships. Able to accommodate from 30 up to 80 guests in our Boardroom, Lord Cecil Room or Terrace Restaurant.

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Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel Wedding Ceremony Venue

Lymington

Set within 23 acres of beautiful grounds, the 19th Century Manor House has retained its original character and features. Macdonald Elmers Court will provide you with the perfect surroundings for your special day, with spectacular photograph

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48 reviews
Grafton Holiday Home

Lymington
Awards

Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
Grafton is a comfortable, spacious, well equipped, Regency style town house in a quiet residential area.
**48 Tripadvisor 5* Reviews**
2 x Kingsize & 1 x Full Single
Dogs stay free - walled garden.
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314 reviews
Lytton Lawn Touring Park

Milford On Sea
Awards

Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
Lytton Lawn offers spectacular views over the Isle of Wight, and is a wonderful camping and touring park to visit at any time of year.
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Passford House Hotel Conference Residential Venue

Lymington

A successful meeting adds value to your business, that's why we like to do the thinking so you can focus on the day's objectives. Every great conference needs the right setting, good access and a great atmosphere.

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65 reviews
Rudder's of Lymington

Lymington
Awards

Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
Rudder's of Lymington is a detached property offering annexed, ground floor luxury en-suite rooms, with one having the benefit of its own patio garden. There is private parking and all rooms are independently accessed.
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51 reviews
The Old Chapel

Sway
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Other Awards Book Direct 2019
Awards

Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
The Old Chapel is a self catering Bed and Breakfast accomadation, perfect for the independent discerning person who like some history and nature whist enjoying luxury accommodation.
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15 reviews
Kings Hyde Cottage

Lymington
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Recently renovated 18th Century Stables, this well equipped Contemporary Cottage offers guests a country retreat with easy access to both the Open Forest and the beautiful South Coast. The ground floor accommodation has a fully fitted kitchen,…
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- Browse some fantastic offers below and stay at a Holiday Cottage/Self Catering property in The New Forest at a discounted price. Keep checking back as more offers are added daily.
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Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel Conference Residential Venue

Lymington

Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel is an ideal venue for your business meeting or conference. Set on the edge of the New Forest countryside, our hotel provides a relaxing and comfortable retreat from the stresses and strains of the office.

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The Mill at Gordleton Conference Residential Venue

Sway

Conference Room - Our meeting room is ideal for small corporate meetings, functions and seminars.

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The Mill at Gordleton

Sway

Relax and unwind in one of our beautiful bedrooms.

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1045 reviews
South Lawn Hotel

Milford on Sea
Awards

Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
The South Lawn Hotel is positioned between the New Forest National Park and the splendid Hampshire coastline. It is just 10 minutes from the idyllic market town of Lymington.
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The Mill at Gordleton Wedding Ceremony Venue

Sway

All our weddings at the Mill are individual and unique. We will spend as much time as necessary with you to make sure everything is perfect.

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49

Lymington

49 is an Innovation Centre and Co-working environment in the New Forest. It combines open innovation with business know-how and is home to three academies tailored to digital innovation, business expertise and social enterprise and it will also be…

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Wood Engraving Course with Peter Brown

Lymington

2 day course | 10am-4.30pm | McCarthy Room | £100 | Limited Places
An introduction to wood engraving. On day one you will look at tools and the marks they can make and how to use them to create tones. On the next day you will engrave your own image…

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