8 enjoyable things to do in Lymington

The Georgian market town of Lymington in the New Forest is full of history and traditions and there is still a local market held here every Saturday. The town sits in a prime location with the New Forest National Park to the north and the Solent coastline to the south where you can admire wonderful views of the Isle of Wight. This is a great town to visit on your holidays: here are 8 enjoyable things to do in Lymington.

Swim in the Sea Water Baths

You can the plunge into the oldest open air sea water baths in the UK in Lymington. People have been enjoying swimming in these pleasant waters ever since the baths opened in 1833. The pool has great views of the Isle of Wight and is much cheaper than visiting a leisure centre pool, at £2.50 per adult and £1.50 per child. It stays open between June and September each year.

Explore the New Forest

Lymington is located just south of the stunning New Forest National Park, which is filled with many sights and activities which you and your family can enjoy. Cycling, walking and horse-riding are all popular ways to get out and about in this beautiful scenery. For something a little different, however, why not try taking to the water for some thrills and spills at the New Forest Water Park? You and the kids can try paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding and waterskiiing, or give in to silliness and take a ride on the inflatable banana boat! The water park is situated in Fordingbridge, which is about a 40 minute drive from Lymington.

Admire the Knightwood Oak Tree

For another New Forest activity which is a little more relaxed, head to Knightwood Oak Tree. Also known as the Queen of the Forest, this splendid specimen is the largest oak tree in southern England. You can find it easily just west of Lyndhurst, with a handy car park and a gravel path suitable for wheelchairs. This would also make a nice spot for a picnic.

Discover a secluded beach

Lymington is so close to the sea that it would be a shame to pass a holiday there without spending an afternoon on the beach. Rather than heading to the busy tourist hive of Bournemouth further down the coast, instead try the nearby beach by the village of Highcliffe. You can park the car near the town’s clifftop castle and have lunch in the café in the pretty grounds. Then climb down a steep set of sturdy wooden steps where you’ll find the secluded sandy beaches. Here you can soak up the sun and read a good book in perfect peace and quiet. This is a real hidden gem!

Be inspired at the St Barbe Museum

If you fancy learning more about the history of Lymington during your camping holiday, then the St Barbe Museum is the place to go. The exhibits explore the history of the shore, including the smugglers that used to visit the area. There are activities for children including educational toys and dressing up. The Museum is open daily Monday to Saturday.

Wander the Solent Way

The Solent coastline runs along the Hampshire coast, and you can see much of it by following the Solent Way. This 60 mile footpath runs from Milford on Sea to Emsworth Harbour taking in some spectacular views on the way. It also passes through the New Forest, so you can enjoy woodland as well as the coast. You need not walk the entire route of course, shorter sections make brilliant day walks or strolls.

Make a day of it at Beaulieu

There are a ton of attractions in Beaulieu, famous for being the location of National Motor Museum. Situated next to the pretty village of Beaulieu, the Museum is home to many vehicles from the past, including famous cars from films. However, it’s not just for car fans, there are plenty of other things to see – including pretty gardens, a large country house and a 13thCentury abbey to explore. It’s only a 15 minute drive from Lymington so easily accessible from your campsite.

Get going at Buckland Rings

Buckland Rings is an ancient hill fort which dates from the Iron Age, and is the best preserved example of this type of site in the Hampshire and Dorset area. It’s a wonderful place to explore on foot imagining the lives of the people that once lived here. There are also some good bike trails with dirt jumps nearby for those who are into MTB.

Whether you fancy trying waterskiing, sea-bathing, exploring history or just watching the boats sail from the harbour down the Solent, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Lymington.