New Milton is located close to the coast and lies between the scenic resort of Barton and the New Forest. It`s also worth noting New Milton is anything but new.
This country town can be a lively place, especially during the summer months and is not short of great character and charm. Surrounded by tranquil country lanes, its an easy and pleasurable drive from the New forest if a day at the coast takes your fancy. With a wide array of shops, pubs and restaurants, its a town that offers something for everyone whether on holiday in the area or just visiting for the day. New Milton can also be an ideal base from which to explore the rest of the New Forest if the appeal of a coastal stay is more preferable..
As previously stated, New Milton wasn`t established in modern times so is not a new town as such, the history of the area is mentioned in the Domesday book and beyond. Evidence of Roman occupation has also been found to prove life did indeed exist in this important area of the South Coast.
Things To See And Do In New Milton
- New Milton combines the luxury of having a thriving town centre along with the advantage of a superb stretch of coastline that extends to Barton on Sea. The Forest Arts Centre has its home in this town and there are a broad selection of activities to be found at New Milton Recreation Centre.
- For motorcycle fans, the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum is located on the B3055 between Hinton and Bashley Cross roads. Its a short drive just outside New Milton.
- The magnificent New Forest is just minutes away where you can take advantage of the marvellous scenery and fantastic walking opportunities. For those who prefer to get on a bike, the B roads are safe to ride on but beware of significantly increased traffic during Spring/Summer. There are a multitude of cycle tracks within the New Forest for safer riding and a chance to immerse yourself in this beautiful National Park. Several horse riding schools are also available close to New Milton if jumping in the saddle is a favourite pastime.
- New Milton offers a pleasant recreation ground with a childrens’ playground and skate park. Lymington and New Milton Football Club can be found at Fawcett`s Fields, whilst Fernhill is home to the local Cricket Club. The main railway station of New Milton connects the town with Bournemouth, Southampton and London.
History Of New Milton
Rapid development in the district in the 20 years following the Great War attributed to the speedy growth of New Milton.
Prior to this development it was just a little village with a small gathering of houses clustered around the Parish Church. Aside from this, there were just a few newer buildings built near to the Railway Station which had been opened in March, 1888. Before the station was built, anyone wishing to travel to New Milton by train had to get out at Holmsley Station and hire a horse conveyance to complete their journey.
The George Inn was situated in the old village, and wasn`t the large building that can be seen there today. It was a little place set back from the road and seats were placed outside so the local drinkers could enjoy their ale in the open air watching the world go by. The little Post Office at the time happened to be the only one for miles around. For some 90 years it served the public in that capacity before sadly closing down.
The initial founder of New Milton was a Mr Hugh Wyeth, a brewer by trade who came to the area from Winchester in 1888. He had very big ideas and decided to construct a number of buildings, namely the Milton Hotel, a shop and Milton Hall. He was also responsible for drawing out the plans for the general development of the district and expanding New Milton.
New Milton became an Urban District in 1926, but after 5 years of efficient administration, a re-organisation of boundaries came along. Despite public meetings of protest and appeals to the Ministry of Health, the change became effective in April 1932. Along with other neighbouring districts the town was merged in the Borough of Lymington.
New Milton offers a wide selection of accommodation including the nearby 5 star hotel Chewton Glen, various other exceptional hotels, comfy B&B`s, campsites and holiday parks if you are seeking to visit or holiday in the area.