Lymington

Lymington has always felt like one of those “must stop” harbours on the Solent – cobbled streets, proper sailor’s pubs, and a river walk that Svea loves. But first you’ve got to get in, and that’s where things get interesting.

The Approach

The entrance looks straightforward on the chart, but it’s one of those places where the tide, ferries, and mudbanks all conspire to keep you on your toes. The green buoys hug so close to the salt marshes you almost feel like you could reach out and touch them, and at low water the mud is only too eager to remind you it’s there.

Both Pete and I have been in and out of Lymington many times however we were still glued to the depth sounder whilst keeping an eye on the ferry chugging out to Yarmouth. We gave it plenty of space, slipped into the channel behind, and let the rising tide take the stress out of it.

Mooring on the Harbour Quay

You could head into Berthon or Haven marina, but if you can get a space on the old town quay, take it. It’s right in the middle of everything – the kind of place where you step ashore and you’re instantly on the cobbles. Svea was delighted not to have a long pontoon walk, and Pete liked the idea of being moored up in the postcard-perfect centre of town.

Facilities are a bit more basic than the marinas, but you trade that for character. Sitting in the cockpit with a glass in hand, watching the world wander by on the quay, feels very Lymington.

Walks for Svea

Straight from the quay, we headed out along the Sea Wall Walk – a flat path that winds its way past the salt marshes. Svea loved it, nose to the ground, ears flicking at the sound of curlews and oystercatchers. The views across to the Isle of Wight are spectacular, and it’s the perfect leg-stretch after a day on the water. Dogs are allowed off lead but must be under control to avoid disturbing nesting, feeding, and roosting birds. 

If you want more of an adventure, the New Forest is just up the road – endless trails through ancient woodland.

Pubs and Food

No shortage of options here. We tried:

• The Kings Head – lively, dog-friendly, and full of character. Svea got plenty of attention under the table.

• The Ship Inn – right on the harbour, ideal for watching boats with a pint in hand.

• The Bosun’s Chair – tucked just behind the quay, with a garden that’s perfect if you’re coming off the boat with a dog in tow.

Morning coffee was at Coffee & Drift, where Svea was welcomed as warmly as we were.

Lymington might make you work a little harder on the approach, but once you’re tied up it’s worth every bit of concentration. If we’d had more time, we would have loved to carry on further up the river to Buckler’s Hard. We’ve both made the trip on previous visits, and it’s well worth waiting for the tides to be right to explore this historic 18th-century shipbuilding village.