Lymington Market & Artisans Market

Approximate Journey Time: 50 Mins

Time at Destination: 4 .5 hours

Comfort Stop: No

Drop off Point: Outside Waitrose

Enjoy a relaxing day in Lymington, a picturesque harbour town filled with coastal charm. Your journey includes a scenic drive through the beautiful New Forest National Park, where free-roaming ponies and ancient woodland create a wonderful start to the day. Once in Lymington, wander the historic High Street, browse independent shops and the lively market, or enjoy coffee by the marina. With gentle walking, pretty views, and a peaceful seaside atmosphere, it’s a perfect destination for guests seeking an easy, enjoyable outing.

Enjoy the Artisans Market in the church hall of St Thomas the Apostle, with a wonderful variety of stalls and activities. Highlights include Morris dancers, live singers, and the bell tower open for visitors, with the chance to try your hand at hand-bell ringing. Browse an excellent range of crafts, gifts, and great-value produce, along with homemade refreshments, a children’s craft area, and an extensive plant stall. And with even more attractions still being added, it promises to be a vibrant and enjoyable day for all.

Accessibility

The town includes a few steeper sections that some wheelchair users or passengers with mobility aids may find challenging. The cobbled area by the Quay is uneven, though it’s a short stretch and can easily be avoided if preferred. Accessible toilets are available in central locations.

The coastal town of Lymington has a rich maritime heritage dating back to the Norman period. Once known for its salt industry, which thrived for centuries along the nearby marshes, Lymington later grew into an important shipbuilding and trading port thanks to its sheltered harbour.

By the 18th and 19th centuries, the town had become a fashionable destination, attracting visitors for its sea-bathing, markets, and elegant Georgian streets. Today, Lymington is celebrated for its pretty marinas, historic High Street, and strong connection to the New Forest National Park, which has shaped the area’s culture, economy, and landscape for generations.

The parish church of St Thomas Church is one of the town’s oldest landmarks, standing at the top of the High Street for more than 800 years. Originally built in the 13th century, the church has evolved over time, with additions from the 14th, 17th, and 19th centuries, giving it a mix of architectural styles.

Key features include its striking tower, added in the 1600s, and beautiful interior elements such as carved woodwork, stained glass, and historic memorials to prominent local families and seafarers. For centuries, the church has been at the heart of community life — from maritime blessings to civic events — and remains an important symbol of Lymington’s long and proud history.