Sitting on the southern edge of the beautiful New Forest National Park between Southampton and Bournemouth, Lymington is an ancient seaport brimming with maritime history.
Once a major source of warships for the English navy and a famous salt exporter, today, Lymington is a vibrant harbour town featuring 2 marinas filled with boats, yachts, and sailing clubs. In its narrow cobbled streets you’ll find picturesque period cottages and houses, an open air market dating back to the 13th century, and plenty of pubs and restaurants.
Lymington’s the perfect base for a day out or trip away with plenty of things to do in town, and in its stunning surrounding areas. Read on to find out what this colourful Georgian town has to offer.
Lymington travel links
Lymington is well-connected by public transport. There are 2 stations, Lymington Town and Lymington Pier.
How to get there by train - In under 2 hours, you can get to Lymington from London Waterloo with SWR. Go direct to Brockenhurst and change trains here to get to Lymington in under 8 minutes. From Bournemouth and Southampton, it takes around an hour to get to Lymington with a quick change at Brockenhurst.
Ferry links - You can get regular ferries from Lymington to the Isle of Wight in 40 minutes with Wightlink.
Bus services - local bus links are run by Morebus - find out more.
Things to do in Lymington
There’s plenty to do in Lymington. Although you can enjoy some of the town’s highlights with a day trip, it’s worth extending your stay to make the most of Lymington and its nearby hotspots including New Forest National Park and Isle of Wight.
Here are some ideas for things to do in Lymington to add to your itinerary.
Do some water activities - Head to the Lymington Sea Water Baths, one of the country’s oldest sea-fed swimming pools which includes an inflatable obstacle course - perfect for a family day out. You can also take fishing trips, try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, and hire speed boats.
Head to Lymington Nature Reserve - Renowned for its rich and varied birdlife, this one’s worth taking a trip for if you want a peaceful walk among nature. The reserve covers nearly 500 acres between the mouth of the Lymington River and Keyhaven. On your stroll, you may spot the likes of brown hare, barn owls and black-tailed godwits.
Learn about Lyminton’s history - While you’re in town, visit St Barbe, a dynamic local history museum. There are various exhibitions, talks, and events showcasing the best art from across the region.
Visit Woodside Park - This park makes for a perfect family day out, popular for its free leisure facilities where you can play rugby, cricket, football, tennis and croquet. There’s also a skatepark and children’s play area. This park’s a great spot for a picnic - enjoy a bite to eat amid the beautiful rhododendrons and rose gardens.
Do a town tour - Lymington Town Tours takes you on a walk to discover Lymington’s fascinating history with various routes and themes. Most walks last around 90 minutes where a guide will talk you through the town's buildings, interesting characters and more.
Shopping in Lymington
You’ll find plenty of unique and interesting shops in Lymington. Its high street is lined with independent shops and boutiques selling the likes of unique crafts and gifts, clothes, shoes and jewellery.
Lymington’s market is a must-visit, open every Saturday from 8 am to 3 pm on the Georgian high street. You’ll see around 90 stalls selling locally-made artisan products, furniture, fresh fruit and vegetables, jewellery and more.
Where to eat in Lymington
You’ll be spoilt for choice with places to eat in Lymington.
For a quick bite, coffee & drift is a decent option serving buddha bowls and artisan coffees. You could also visit Lounges - a family-owned coffee shop on the high street serving freshly made lunches and homemade cakes. Café Aroma is a popular spot on the high street, renowned for its mouth-watering breakfasts.
For dinner try Spanish restaurant Brisa, independent pub and kitchen The Townhouse and cosy Mediterranean restaurant The Hidden Yard.
If you’re after food with a view, you’ll see stunning scenes across the Solent at Haven Bar & Restaurant. The Mayflower’s also worth considering - it’s one of the biggest eateries in Lymington, placed by the Town Sailing Club and Royal Lymington Yacht Club.
Hotels in Lymington
There are heaps of options for hotels in Lymington.
If you’re after a boutique stay, the 5-star Britannia House - which overlooks the waterfront - is an award-winning bed and breakfast. Alongside the riverbank, If you’re planning on visiting the New Forest while you’re in town, The Old Mill is an old water mill conversion that sits just outside of Lyminton by the national park.
If you’re holidaying on a budget, there are still plenty of nice places to stay, including the Passford House Hotel, the New Wheel Inn and the Walhampton Arms.
