Milford on Sea

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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.

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 couple of B&Bs that can be found within Milford-on-sea including Harvest House. If you would prefer to go self-catering then they're is a fantastic choice in and around Milford including Milford Croft, Windmill Cottage 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, including Ray's Italian Kitchen. If you fancy a tipple and some nibbles, head to The Cave where you will find just that!

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.

Highlights

The Lazy Lion

Enjoy a wide variety of locally brewed beers, a fantastic selection of wines and bubbles or a…

Sea Road

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

South Lawn Hotel

The South Lawn Hotel is positioned between the New Forest National Park and the splendid Hampshire…

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Number of results: 97

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
752 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…
Special Offers
- 15% off all holidays
  Looking for a fantastic UK staycation? In line with the reduction in tourism VAT, Shorefield Holidays are passing on the saving to you! Simply use the discount code VAT15 when booking to receive an additional 15% off any accommodation! Includes hot tub lodges and luxury houses.
  Please note that bookings are for Shorefield Holidays' new-look getaways, without all the usual facilities. All 2020 and 2021 holidays are covered by Shorefield Holidays' Coronavirus Booking Guarantee.
  Terms and conditions apply. The balance of your holiday must be paid in full by 31st March to receive the full 15% off. Any outstanding balance after this time will be increase by the extra 15% in line with the Government VAT rates. For more information, please visit the Shorefield Holidays website.
  More offers like this - Camping, Caravan and Holiday Parks Special Offers
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The Lazy Lion

Milford on Sea

Enjoy a wide variety of locally brewed beers, a fantastic selection of wines and bubbles or a refreshing soft drink and a delicious home cooked meal at The Lazy Lion.
Our warm, bright dining room and bar area is the perfect setting to relax with…

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
17 reviews
Sea Road

Milford-On-Sea, Lymington

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 for the price of 6* during October 2020 to March 2021. 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
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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
1138 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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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
50 reviews
Milford Croft

Milford On Sea
Awards

Other Awards Book Direct 2019
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.
Special Offers
- For the weeks starting 28-Nov, 5-Dec or 12-Dec adiscount of £50 per week given if only two guests stay.
  More offers like this - Holiday Cottages & Self Catering Special Offers
- 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.
  More offers like this - Holiday Cottages & Self Catering Special Offers
- 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.
  More offers like this - Holiday Cottages & Self Catering Special Offers
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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
492 reviews
Harvest House

Lymington Road

Set in mature grounds, with panoramic views across open farmland reaching down to the Solent and the Isle of Wight beyond, this lovely early 1900's rectory offers a chance to unwind in superbly comfortable and tranquil surroundings.

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
73 reviews
The New Forest Paddle Sport Company

Milford On Sea
Awards

Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
Come and experience the Joys of Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Kayaking in a truly stunning location!
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The Lazy Lion

Milford on Sea

Come and stay with us at The Lazy Lion. Our cosy, clean and comfortable bed and breakfast rooms are perfect for a break in the New Forest and near the coast.

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TripAdvisor Traveller Rating
338 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.
Special Offers
- 15% off all holidays
  Looking for a fantastic UK staycation? In line with the reduction in tourism VAT, Shorefield Holidays are passing on the saving to you! Simply use the discount code VAT15 when booking to receive an additional 15% off any camping and touring getaway!
  Please note that bookings are for Shorefield Holidays' new-look getaways, without all the usual facilities. All 2020 and 2021 holidays are covered by Shorefield Holidays' Coronavirus Booking Guarantee.
  Terms and conditions apply. The balance of your holiday must be paid in full by 31st March to receive the full 15% off. Any outstanding balance after this time will be increase by the extra 15% in line with the Government VAT rates. For more information, please visit the Shorefield Holidays website.
  More offers like this - Camping, Caravan and Holiday Parks Special Offers
More Details
The Cave

Milford on Sea
Awards

Visit Britain We're Good to Go 2020
The Cave is a 'must go' meeting place for pre or post lunch or dinner drinks with friends.and family. We also have a varied Tapas menu if you fancy a more relaxed way of dining. Come on down, we promise to make you feel welcome!
Special Offers
- Show us your GNF card and receive 10% off food and drink in the bar ONLY, (not retail shop)
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Live music with Gavin & Chloe

Milford on Sea

Gavin & Chloe will ease you into Sunday evening with there seemless renditions of our favourite tunes across the 80's, 90's, 00's. FREE event

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Halloween at Hurst Castle

Keyhaven, Lymington

Half term Halloween fun at Hurst Castle. With lots of open space for everyone to enjoy it's a great place to blow away the cobwebs! Open every day 10am - 4pm, ferries available from 9.45am at Keyhaven.

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Race 2 of the SUP New Forest Paddle Boarding Winter Race Series

Keyhaven

Race 2 of the winter race series held at Keyhaven Quay run by SUP New Forest and The New Forest Paddle Sport Company.
This series of 4 races over the winter is designed for everyone and anyone to come along and give SUP racing a go in a friendly…

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Duality

Milford on Sea

A relaxing Saturday afternoon of music with Total Voice's singer, Christine Mulgrew accompanied on piano. Diners can enjoy tapas and a wide selection of wine and beers while listening to Christine from 2pm until 4.30pm on Saturday 22nd February.

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Keyhaven Marshes

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…

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Live music with Rich Baxter

Milford on Sea

Rich, our Americana Rock king is back here to keep you entertained just before xmas. FREE entry and guaranteed foot tapping and fun for the duration of the afternoon

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Sunday Music with Emma Hardy

Milford on Sea

Join us from 4pm this Sunday and enjoy local singer Emma Hardy perform an ecclectic mix of popular tunes. FREE event, see you there!

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Live music with Rich Baxter

Milford on Sea

Live music from 4-7pm. Rich specialises in Americana rock and pop styles. Not to be missed. Free entry

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Live music with Darren Vernall

Milford on Sea

Join us between 4-7pm and enjoy the talents of singer/guitarist Darren while he sees us through sunday afternoon.
Free event!

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SUP New Forest Winter Race Series Race 3

Keyhaven

Race 3 of the winter paddle board series run by The New Forest Paddle Sport Company.
Open to all levels of paddle boarders from novice to seasoned racers. Race each other or just the clock!
Run at keyhaven quay meeting at 8:30am for a 9am briefing…

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