The Kings Head – Raised terrace with Mediterranean vibes in summer, great views and food, very popular so booking recommended.

The Mayflower – Pub with good food and a large garden, has an outdoor bar in summer, family-friendly.

The Fisherman’s Rest – Low-beamed pub with great food and atmosphere, good for groups and families, serves local produce and has top Sunday roasts.

The Elderflower – Fine dining on the Cobbles, known for locally caught fish, featured on TV, booking essential.

Lanes of Lymington – Just off the High Street, fine dining using seasonal produce, run by head chef Peter who also offers cookery classes.

Rivaaz – Award-winning Indian at the top of the High Street, busy and friendly, a regular spot though New Forest Tandoori is preferred for takeaways.

The Ferryman – Near the ferry on the far side of town, serves very good food and is usually quieter than central restaurants.

Verveine – Quirky restaurant at the back of a fishmonger’s, outstanding fish tasting menus, very limited seating so book early.

The Jetty – By a lagoon in Mudeford, impressive food and views, catch of the day is always excellent.

The Pig – Converted hunting lodge restaurant, all food sourced within 25 miles or grown on-site, superb, book well in advance.

Fleur-de-Lys – Historic thatched pub in the middle of the New Forest with high quality food and a charming garden for alfresco dining.

New Forest Tandoori – Great Indian food in an open kitchen, favourite is king prawn, garlic, chilli masala, located in Pennington, no delivery.

Mr Pinks Fish & Chips – Best option for fish and chips, located in Milford-on-Sea, perfect followed by a short drive to the beach.

Wok Inn – Extensive Chinese and Thai takeaway with open kitchen, preferred for Chinese dishes, Thai can be too sweet, delivery available.

Hurst Castle – Artillery fort built by Henry VIII, located at the end of Hurst Spit next to the lighthouse, fantastic views.

Beaulieu Motor Museum – Great for families, hosts classic car and bike events in summer, located in the picturesque village of Beaulieu.

Buckler’s Hard – Historic site on the Beaulieu River where Nelson’s fleet was built, includes hotel, restaurant, museum and boat trips.

Lymington Sea Food Festival – Annual event in mid-July showcasing New Forest cuisine, held on the green in town.

Milford on Sea – Pebble beach with great views of the Needles, walkable to Hurst Castle.

Highcliffe Castle – Grade 1 listed mansion near a sandy beach with wheelchair access and a cafe.
Mudeford – Sandy beach famous for pricey beach huts, short ferry ride gives access, good food options nearby.

Sandbanks – Beautiful beach, very crowded in summer and hard to park.

Waitrose – Stanford Road, Lymington.
Hoxton Bakery – High Street, Lymington, good bread and pastries.

Setley Ridge Farm Shop – Lymington Road, Brockenhurst, for local New Forest produce.

Co-op – Ampress Park, Lymington, open 24 hours with fuel.

Waitrose Boots – Stanford Road, Lymington, open late.

Boots – 89-90 High Street, Lymington.

Co-op – Ampress Park, Lymington, 24 hour shop and fuel.

Shell – 33 Milford Road, Lymington.

Rownhams M27 – Motorway services between Junction 3.

Sea Water Baths – Lymington Lido with 200 metre inflatable obstacle course.

Pirate Boat Trip – Puffin Cruises offer a pirate-themed mini expedition for kids.

Town Quay – Popular crabbing spot, kits and bait sold nearby.

Peppa Pig World – Part of Paultons Theme Park near Romsey, 70+ rides and attractions including Peppa Pig themed rides.