Hurst near the idyllic boating resort of Lymington
Lymington is a picture-perfect market town and well known sailing resort. It is perched on a coastal inlet at the southern end of the New Forest. With deep water access to the Solent, it’s no wonder that it’s home to two large marinas, Berthon and Haven and a further two sailing clubs, RLYC and Lymington Town.
The High Street has maintained its classic Georgian looks, with its cobbled side streets and quaint pubs and eateries, it’s a comfortable fit for those looking for a relaxing British holiday cottage break. The town is an excellent base to explore the New Forest and to take a day trip from Lymington Pier to the Isle of Wight by ferry. The town has a new curiosity around every corner, not least the Old Town Quay which still acts as a working port for the local fisherman. This has to be a plus for seafood connoisseurs, as you’ll just know you’ll be eating the morning’s catch for your evening meal.
There’s also the wonderfully peculiar draw of the local swimming pool that happens to be an open-air sea water bath dating back to Victorian times (1883). It’s a wonderful spot that works well in a modern setting as a great summer spot to take the kids. The town has an excellent circular walk that takes in all the main attractions including a large nature reserve, Moses Creek, Eight Acre Pond, the marinas and finally the High Street with its array of independent shops and eateries.
“Lymington has a new curiosity around every corner.”
Lucky Lymington is surrounded in all directions by beautiful countryside, nature reserves, the Solent and several SSSIs. Beyond the town you can travel east to Calshot Spit to see where D. H. Lawrence served part of his early military career and watch yachtsman at play on the waves. The panoramic views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight are incredible. On a different day you could venture west to Hurst Spit with its mysterious fortress of Hurst Castle - perfect for nature lovers and trekkers. The ancient woodlands and heathlands of the New Forest is full of great walks and views, punctuated by chocolate-box market towns and villages for a spot of well-earned lunch. Be sure to include a visit to Beaulieu Motor Museum and Estate during your stay in Lymington. Car enthusiasts will be dazzled by the sheer number of automobiles from throughout the ages on show there. It really is a thrill for ‘petrol heads’ everywhere.
Discover the Georgian town of Lymington Lymington is also within 18 miles driving distance of Christchurch, Bournemouth and Southampton if your curiosity is piqued by larger towns and cities. Whilst the latter two will offer a real contrast to the slumber of beautiful Lymington, they have their own points of appeal that are worth investigating.