Fordingbridge Bike Hire
- Discover
One of the many appeals of visiting the New Forest is unearthing hidden treasures every time you return. Fordingbridge is one such delight; known as the northern gateway to the New Forest, it’s a small riverside town on the banks of the River Avon and at the northwest fringe of the National Park.
While there have been people inhabiting the area since Neolithic times, Fordingbridge’s own history properly begins in the 11th century. It was recorded in the Domesday book, with the name evolving from `Forde’ and `Bridge’.
The seven-arched Great Bridge, built in Medieval times, is upstream from the ford and is a popular feature of the town.
Fordingbridge, which was once an industrial town and commercial centre, boasted a myriad of trades including textiles, brickmaking and pottery. Whilst not technically an ‘industry’, it was also noted for its smuggling – infamous Captain Diamond, the `Smuggler King’ spent much of his time here in a local hostelry.
Happily, such characters have since been replaced by walkers and tourists.
In 1866, Fordingbridge acquired its railway station, while the by-pass, constructed in the mid-70s, diverted much of the heavy traffic from the town centre and the narrow mediaeval bridge.
Fordingbridge is twinned with Vimoutiers in Normandy – and the town is also home to Fordingbridge Turks FC. Established around 1868, it is one of the oldest football clubs in England.
For a small town, there’s plenty to see and do in Fordingbridge, whether it’s a slice of history or some fresh air you’re after. Head to King’s Yard for The Fordingbridge Museum, which houses local history exhibits – it’s also where you’ll find the Visitor Information Centre, packed with great ideas.
If it’s historic churches, then head just off the high street and seek out the parish church of St. Mary. Largely built in 1150 it has some typical Norman characteristics. Take a short drive and you’ll find Breamore church, which is believed to date back to Saxon times. Also not far from Fordingbridge is Alderholt Mill. Alderholt Mill has been home to a mill since the 14th century. After falling silent in the 1940s, the mill was restored in 1987. It is now a bed and breakfast, open for cream teas, bread, flour etc, at weekends.
If you’re more of an active type, there’s plenty of fishing to be done at the Riverside Park (you can access a day permit from the Visitor Information Centre), or simply head off for one of the many forest and riverside walks which are on the town’s doorstep.
Artists feature largely in Fordingbridge’s (short) list of famous residents; Welsh portrait artist Augustus John lived in Fordingbridge from 1927 until his death in 1961, while Paul Kidby, best known for his artwork featured in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series of books, lived and worked in the town.
So you’re sold on a visit to Fordingbridge. Great. Now you just need somewhere to stay; well the good news is that the New Forest Collection has plenty of places nearby, whether it’s for a bite to eat or somewhere to rest your head.
Burley is under 20 minutes away – so choose from Burley Manor or our boutique Burley Huts. If Lyndhurst is your preferred destination, head for Bartley Lodge or Forest Lodge, which are both under half an hour away. And if you’re over that way, dive into The Drift, our rustic and relaxed award-winning pub and restaurant.
Ashurst, Barton-On-Sea, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Lymington, Lyndhurst, New Forest, New Milton, Ringwood, Milford-On-Sea, Minstead
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