Milford on Sea

My Planner

To build your own Itinerary, click Add to Excursion to add an item to your Itinerary basket.

Already saved an Itinerary?

Accommodation
Search
Things to Do
Search
What's On
Search
Food & Drink
Search
Shopping
Search
Business
Search

Accommodation Search

Things to Do Search

What's On Search

Food & Drink Search

General & Tourist Information Search

Accommodation Search

Things to Do Search

What's On Search

Food & Drink Search

General & Tourist Information Search

Charming Milford-on-Sea and its neighbouring Keyhaven both enjoy stunning sea views towards Christchurch Harbour and across to the Isle of Wight.

The traditional village offers a range of shops, breath-taking cliff top walks and beaches.

The village began as a Saxon settlement (known as Melleford) and until the 1800s was solely inland. Coastal erosion, and village expansion over the years have made the village border the sea as can be found today. The oldest building in the village is All Saints’ Church, there is evidence of Norman, Early English, Decorated and Perpendicular architecture on display here.

The village was once part of the Christchurch Priory estate and grew on agriculture, salt producing and smuggling in days gone by. The village green was the site of the reputed Battle of Milford Green between smugglers and the militia in the 18th century.

Look out for an array of interesting features and buildings within the village including the post box at the junction of Victoria Road with Cornwallis Road. This post box (or pill box) is the oldest in Hampshire and dates from Victorian times.

The hamlet of Keyhaven falls within the parish of Milford-on-sea and was once a fishing village. It sits opposite of the shingle bank (spit) and Hurst Castle. Historically, the area around Keyhaven was used for salt production and today remains a popular spot for bird watching with many wetland species frequenting the area.

Things to do in Milford on Sea

Although a small village, there is plenty of things to do in and around Milford-on-sea. The shingle beach is lined with colourful beach huts and spectacular views across the Solent. The closest beach to the village centre is Hurst Road Beach with parking and toilets nearby plus the Needles Eye Café which has its own ice cream kiosk and children’s play area.

To the west of the village you will find Hordle Cliff Beach. This beach has nearby parking, a food and drink kiosk and toilets. The pebble beach is accessed from a steep set of steps however at low tide, a sand bar is exposed.

Local stores including a butchers, greengrocer and off-license are on hand for picking up supplies, plus a couple of antiques and gift shops make for an interesting browse.

Venture out in this stunning village, it's coastline and the nearby forest by hiring retro E-bikes from Jaunt-E Bikes. These super Monkey E-bikes are a brilliantly fun way to explore and get some exercise in at the same time, without having to skip the hills or shorten the ride, as they are electric assisted!

Milford-on-Sea is an ideal place to take to the water. The New Forest Paddle Sport Company are based in the village and offer the chance to explore the stunning Keyhaven River and salt marshes with Hurst Castle and the scenic coastline of the New Forest by stand up paddle board or kayak. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never tried either of the activities before, instructors are on hand with running taster sessions and lessons. If you are a more confident boarder or kayaker then why not hire the equipment and journey over to Hurst Castle? The New Forest Paddle Sport Company have teamed up with the castle to offer a guided paddle to the castle followed by lunch (pre-booking is essential).

Hurst Castle has a long military history, dating from Tudor times when it was built by Henry VIII to defend the Solent. It was also the prison of Charles I and is now owned by English Heritage, under the management of Hurst Marine. Visitors young and old can explore the castle with an audio tour and gaze out to the fantastic views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. During World War II, Hurst Castle was manned with coastal gun batteries and searchlights due to its strategic location. The castle is just 1 ½ miles from Milford on Sea along a shingle spit and makes for an interesting walk from the village. It isn’t possible to drive to the castle however visitors can choose to park at nearby Keyhaven and take the ferry shuttle service.

If you enjoy walking, then why not pick up the 5½ mile Sea Air Trail from Lymington to Keyhaven and then onto Milford-on-sea? This walk passes by several places to eat so could easily be combined with a tasty lunch stop. Another option would be to walk the Solent Way. This 60-mile walk begins at Milford-on-Sea before heading to Emsworth Harbour, to the east of Portsmouth.

Keen birders should make their way to Keyhaven to take a look at the Keyhaven nature reserve. These former salt marshes are a haven for internationally important numbers of birds including oystercatcher and grey plover.

Fishing is another leisure pursuit in the local area with both Milford-on-sea beach and Hurst spit being popular choices for anglers. Sea fishing trips can also be taken from Keyhaven with Greg Pitt Sea Fishing.

Events in Milford on Sea

For a small village, there is plenty going on with loads of events for everyone to enjoy. Every year, on the village green, the May day festival takes place with traditional maypole dancing. During a week in July, look out for the Milford on Sea Music and Arts Festival and head to the Milford on Sea Community Centre for a range of musical performances, film screenings and workshops.

Hurst Castle runs a variety of events throughout the year including some school holiday events.

Keep an eye on our what’s on pages for details of other events up and coming in and around Milford on Sea.

Places to stay in Milford on Sea

There are some fantastic places to stay in Milford on Sea, including a fantastic choice of self catering in and around Milford including Milford Croft and Sea Road are the closest to the village.

If you fancy a relaxing break at a country house hotel then South Lawn Hotel is the perfect place for you. With 26 en-suite bedrooms, most with a view over the garden and beyond and just a short walk or drive away from Milford on Sea high street and the seaside, this hotel is a great place for a tranquil escape to the New Forest.

Shorefield Country Park is within a short drive of Milford on Sea. Shorefield offers holiday lodge accommodation whereas guests can bring their own tents and caravans to Lytton Lawn. Another Holiday Park in Milford on Sea is Downton Holiday Park. Although Downton Holiday Park is smaller than some of our other Holiday Parks, they still have everything you need including laundary facilities, a seasonal indoor games room, an outdoor play area and they're dog friendly!

Where to eat and drink in Milford on Sea

There are a some great places to eat and drink in Milford on Sea, including a handful of cafes and pubs in the village offering a refreshing drink or a spot of food. Milford on Sea is also home to some great restaurants.

Getting to Milford on Sea

If driving, Milford-on-sea is easily accessible from the A35.

The closest train stations are in Lymington and New Milton.

Head to visitmilfordonsea.co.uk to find out even more information about the wonderful village of Milford on Sea.

Highlights

The New Forest Paddle Sport Company

Come and experience the Joys of Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Kayaking on the stunning New Forest…

Sea Road

This premium modern home benefits from wonderful views and a great location this house is great for…

Milford Croft

5 Star bungalow available all year round for up to 6 guests, close to the beach and village. Well…

Number of results:

Number of results: 74

, currently showing 1 to 20.

Sort By: A-Z Lowest A-Z Highest

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
844 reviews
Shorefield Country Park

Location:

Milford-on-Sea
Awards

New Forest Awards New Forest Green Leaf Award 2022
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…
Special Offers
- 2022 Holiday Roll Back Sale!
  With the rising cost of living squeezing everyone, we’re ‘rolling back’ our prices to 2019* so that you can book a great value UK staycation and enjoy a much-needed coastal escape while saving a few pounds too! With the hotly anticipated holiday season coming up quickly, avoid the stress of airport queues and cancelled flights and take the opportunity to soak up the glorious surroundings of the UK coastline - we here at Shorefield Holidays are ready and waiting to welcome you!
  Holidays shouldn’t have to be a hassle, so make Dorset or the New Forest the location for your next self-catering escape. Whether it’s family fun on the beach, spotting local wildlife on nature trails near the parks, exploring the local area, or simply putting your feet up, for a well-earned rest in one of our luxurious hot tub lodges – we have something to suit everyone that now won’t cost the world.
  But hurry! Sale ends midnight Sunday 10th July – **Terms & Conditions Apply
  PLUS… If that wasn’t enough, our Privilege Club members will get an extra 10% off and Blue Light holders get an additional 5% off!
  Terms and conditions:
  *Price checks were carried out on over 100 holiday prices in 2019 at full Shorefield rack rate tariff. For new booking only made between the sale dates.
  **Excludes Swanage Coastal Park and camping and touring breaks. The 2022 at 2019 discount offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other Shorefield Holidays promotions, unless specified in these terms. Our Privilege Club members can receive an additional 10% off and Blue light card holders 5% off. The promotion is based upon full rack rate tariffs from 2019 and cannot be measured against any holidays sold at discounted rates. Standard booking deposit rules and balance terms apply.
  More offers like this - Camping, Caravan and Holiday Parks Special Offers
More Details
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
96 reviews
The New Forest Paddle Sport Company

Location:

Milford On Sea
Awards

New Forest Awards New Forest Green Leaf Award 2022
Come and experience the Joys of Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Kayaking on the stunning New Forest Coastline
More Details
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
21 reviews
Sea Road

Location:

Milford-On-Sea, Lymington
Awards

New Forest Awards New Forest Green Leaf Award 2022
This premium modern home benefits from wonderful views and a great location this house is great for families or groups of friends (6 adults and 2 children, see bed arrangement). A short wall away is the busy village with 5 pubs and other places to…
Special Offers
- Book 7 nights or more and get one night free during the period from 1st November 2022 to 25th Feb 2023 (does not include Christmas and New Year). Mention this in the enquiry on Holiday Lettings site for a quote to be amended. *This offer will only be upheld if mentioned at the time of enquiry.
  More offers like this - Holiday Cottages & Self Catering Special Offers
More Details
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
58 reviews
Milford Croft

Location:

Milford On Sea
Awards

Other Awards Book Direct 2019
Awards

New Forest Awards New Forest Green Leaf Award 2022
5 Star bungalow available all year round for up to 6 guests, close to the beach and village. Well furnished with modern appliances secure garden, BBQ, internet access, parking as well as linen and towels provided.
More Details
Jaunt-e Bikes

Location:

Milford on Sea
Awards

New Forest Awards New Forest Green Leaf Award 2022
Engage your sense of adventure and experience the New Forest and its coastline on these fun retro 'Chopper style' rental E-Bikes. Super simple to ride, there’s no need to avoid the hills or limit your journey when you have five power assist modes at…
Special Offers
- Half Day Retro E-Bike Hire Experience, From just £40
  More offers like this - Things to Do Special Offers
- Family Retro E-Bike Hire Experience, just £100 for four people
  More offers like this - Things to Do Special Offers
More Details
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1375 reviews
Hurst Castle & Hurst Castle Ferry

Location:

Milford on Sea

Come and discover this artillery fortress, built by Henry VIII in 1544, at the seaward end of a coastal spit, which was once a prison of Charles 1st. Castle takeaway is open daily. Frequent ferry service from Keyhaven Quay.

More Details
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
382 reviews
Lytton Lawn Touring Park

Location:

Milford On Sea

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.

More Details
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1427 reviews
South Lawn Hotel

Location:

Milford on Sea

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.

More Details
Keyhaven Marshes

Location:

Milford on Sea

3.5 miles (5.6 km)
Along the route there are views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight and the Needles and opportunities to watch the ever-changing bird life of Keyhaven Marshes. The path then cuts inland to follow an ancient highway behind the…

More Details
Sturt Pond

1.9 Miles
This is a great coastal walk from the Hurst Road East car park at Milford on Sea, past Sturt Pond, to Hurst Spit. This is a New Forest Access For All route.

More Details
The New Forest Paddle Sport Company - Online Shop

Location:

Milford on Sea

Although our shop on Milford on Sea High Street is currently closed, our online shop is still available with free delivery!
You can buy fantastic products from our online store, including inflatable and solid starboard Paddle Boards as well as…

More Details
Britannia Thai Milford on Sea - Takeaway Service

Location:

Milford on Sea

Open 6 days a week, closed on Mondays. 15% off for takeaways. Take Away dishes will be available at both restaurants.

More Details
Hordle Cliffs

2 Miles, 2.6 Miles
The Hordle cliffs are just to the west of Milford-on-Sea village centre. There are excellent walks on a sealed surface of fine gravel embedded in tarmac, with wonderful views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight.

More Details
Keyhaven

1.9 Miles
Keyhaven is approached from Milford-on-Sea. It is a small village with a very pretty
harbour. There are easy walks along the sea wall with views of Keyhaven harbour, the
Isle of Wight and Hurst Spit. The area is a good spot for bird…

More Details
The Stables

Location:

Lymington

Converted stable cottage in quiet idyllic setting. Well equipped kitchen, shower, bedroom (twin beds), lounge with sofa-bed, electric wall heaters in each room, plus wood burning stove. Pretty patio garden. Easy parking.

More Details
Solent Way Walk

60 Miles
The Solent Way is a long distance coastal walk, starting from the seaside town of Milford-on-Sea and finishing at Emsworth Harbour. Along the way you can enjoy shingle beaches, exhilarating views, deserted coastal marshes, promenades,…

More Details
Collins & Butler

Category:

Estate Agent

Location:

Milford On Sea

Telephone
01590 643033
Half Day Retro E-Bike Experience

Category:

Cycle Route

Location:

Lymington,

**Experience Duration: Three Hours**
Age 14+
Jaunt-E Super Monkey e-bikes are a little bit special. Be prepared to turn heads; they combine cutting edge e-technology with a large dollop of retro style and iconic 1980's 'Chopper' vibes. So hop…
Facilities

Beyonk Online Booking
- Bookable Product
The Lighthouse

Category:

Restaurant

Location:

Lymington

Telephone
01590 718040
The Gun Inn

Category:

Public House

Location:

Lymington

Telephone
01590 642391