Lymington is a port town, just inside the estuary of the Lymington River, where it opens out onto the Solent. So the yachting marina is nicely tucked away from the worst of the Channel’s weather, and has views across to the Isle of Wight. Lymington isn’t as grand as some of its New Forest neighbours, it’s Georgian, but in miniature, with low-rise townhouses and modest sized housing. It’s also welcoming, with a great array of pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants. Some folk searching for the best places to stay in Lymington will be on the hunt for a dry bed for a few nights, but for many visitors this is the perfect New Forest base. Our Gurus’ recommendations include a great value B&B in town, a couple of foodie favourites, and a romantic hideaway.
Lymington is a proper yachtie haunt, and one of the pleasures of staying here is strolling along the marina’s edge on a sunny evening admiring all the boats. If you pop across to the Isle of Wight — there’s a car and pedestrian ferry that leaves from the opposite side of the river — you’ll see the yachts in action, crossing the Solent, and sailing around the island. Inland are the charms of the New Forest, with the opportunity for pony spotting, trail rides, rambling, and visits to Brockenhurst, and Beaulieu for the motor museum, and Buckler’s Hard for the pub, and history of boat building.
It may be small, but this is a very popular destination especially during the peak summer months. If you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Lymington in July or August, do your research and book well ahead.