A word of warning; if you’re only coming to Lymington for the weekend, you’ll need to do some serious planning – there are only 24 hours in a day, after all. As well as the picturesque town and quay itself, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do near Lymington. Whether it’s coastal walks or cars, beaches or bathing, there’s something for everyone.
The other bit of good news is you’re well served when it comes to places to stay; Forest Lodge in Lyndhurst is just a 20-minute drive away; it’s a beautiful Georgian townhouse with tranquil, comfortable rooms where you’ll soon drift off to sleep after a busy day. Within a similar distance and travel time from Lymington is Beaulieu Inn, a former coaching inn, while another ten minutes down the road and there’s a trio of options.
Whether it’s country spa hotel chic or the boutique cosiness of shepherd huts you’re after, Moorhill House, Burley Manor and Burley Huts are just 27 minutes away. Last, but not least, is the country house splendour of Bartley Lodge, just half an hour away.
The ‘bad’ news is, however, that even once you’ve chosen your base, you then need to narrow down what you’re going to do during your visit. Let us try and help…
Yes, it may seem obvious, but when there’s an incredible 219 square miles of forest, pasture and heathland to explore right on your doorstep – whether that’s by foot, bicycle or horseback. There’s also a myriad of activities such as kayaking, archery and bushcraft at places like New Forest Activities.’Bored’ is not a word in the vocabulary of folk ‘round here…
Located on Hurst Spit, this artillery fortress was built for Henry VIII between 1541 and 1544. It’s a real trip through history; walk in the footsteps of Charles I and take in the spectacular views of the Isle of Wight, or enjoy some bird spotting – keep an eye out for the myriad of species that call the spit home.
Just want to feel the sand or shingle between your toes and look out over the water at the Isle of Wight? No problem – there’s a host of beaches within easy reach of Lymington, including Lepe Beach (check out the old D-Day defences), Avon Beach (lovely sand and a great restaurant!), Barton on Sea (great for fossils) and Milford on Sea (excellent for swimming, water sports, walking, fishing and bird watching).
Established in 1833 and restored in 2010, the Lymington Sea Water Baths is the oldest lido in the country. It’s pretty big – 110 metres long, and is filled with filtered sea water. Whether you want to swim or simply clamber over the inflatable obstacles, it’s a lovely pool.
Fans of Springwatch – you’ll love this beautiful coastal reserve which is home to a plethora of wildlife. Go in Spring to see arriving migrants such as wheatear, swallow and terns; winter means large flocks of brent geese, wigeon, pintail, waders.
A rambler’s paradise, this 60-mile stretch of coast may be too much in one sitting, but there’s a great and very manageable 10-mile stretch from Lymington to Beaulieu.
Right in the centre of Lymington, this local history museum and art gallery is home to a rolling programme of events and exhibitions. The galleries showcase the best art from across the region including exhibitions by nationally renowned artists; there’s also a shop and cafe.
If you’re a petrolhead or live with one, this fantastic museum has to be on the to-do list during a stay in Lymington.
Well worth the 25-minute drive, there are more than 280 vehicles that celebrate 140 years of engineering excellence, as well as temporary exhibitions and World of Top Gear.
If this doesn’t get your own internal engine running, nothing will.
Lymington Beaches, Lymington Cycle Hire, Lymington Cycle Routes, Lymington Fishing, Lymington Golf, Lymington Shopping, Lymington Taxis, Lymington Walks, Lymington Wedding Venues, Lymington Hotels
Sign up for the latest news, events and best rates
