Lymington, a picturesque town on the southern coast of England, has captured the hearts of visitors with its stunning sea views and quaint Georgian architecture, earning high praise from Which? as one of the nation’s finest seaside destinations.
The town, overlooking the Needles on the Isle of Wight, may not have a traditional beach, but it more than makes up for it with a charming nature reserve, a secluded lagoon, and a unique seawater bath, according to Surrey Live.
With its enchanting streets filled with hidden shops, inviting pubs, and superb dining options, Lymington is a treasure trove of local delights.
The bustling high street features an impressive array of independent retailers and upscale boutiques punctuated by a historic Saturday market that has served the community since the 13th century.
Visitors can relax at the marina, enjoying the sight of yachts gliding by against a backdrop of the Solent, capped off with delectable seafood. The Verveine Fishmarket Restaurant in Milford-on-Sea, a short distance away, is particularly noteworthy; it doubles as a traditional fishmonger and has won acclaim on TripAdvisor.
Patrons not only hail it as the crown jewel of New Forest dining, but some enthusiasts suggest it stands uncontested as the “best seafood restaurant for 100 miles”, reports the Mirror.
For those who fancy a dip in the sea, Lymington Sea Water Baths is the perfect spot, boasting giant inflatable obstacles.
With swings, slides, and balance beams all under the watchful eyes of lifeguards, it’s a safe and fun-filled location.
Swimming will cost you approximately £4.50 for an adult and £2.25 for a child. Inflatable sessions are available at £18 for both adults and children, and paddle boarding can be enjoyed for £10 per hour.
Nature lovers should make their way to Normandy Marsh, a birdwatcher’s paradise featuring a hidden lagoon that forms part of the Keyhaven Nature Reserve. The marshes were historically significant for salt production and oyster beds in 1132.
AllTrails offers a brief marsh walk, a 2.7-kilometre trail that takes roughly 32 minutes to complete.
This waterside stroll along the edges of Crooked Lake and Normandy Lake can be extended across the waterfront for those desiring a longer walk.
Those joining the walk are advised to stick to the designated paths. It’s also recommended that dogs be kept on leads to avoid disturbing ground-nesting birds.
A 16th-century pub, The Chequers Inn, is located near the lagoon and is about a 35-minute walk away.
The pub serves traditional food, with menu highlights including braised lamb shank in port and honey, Mediterranean vegetarian tart, and chicken breast in Provencale and pesto sauce.