Lyndhurst is a small market town located in the New Forest area of Hampshire, England. With its picturesque beech woodland, heathland and rolling hills, it is not hard to see why it is a popular destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The town itself is also full of things to do, from independent boutiques to traditional pubs and cafés, Lyndhurst has something for everyone.
1. Lyndhurst parks and places for a walk on a first date
The New Forest National Park is a great place to explore with your date, with plenty of walking trails and activities to do. A great place to start is at Bolderwood, where you can enjoy an easy stroll around the meadows, woods, and lakes. There are plenty of other walks in the area, such as the Lymington to Lyndhurst Walk, which takes in the stunning views of the Forest and its wildlife. For those who enjoy a bit of wildlife spotting, take a stroll around the Hampshire Wildlife Trust sites at Farley Mount Country Park, Long Down Activity Centre, or Botley Woods. At Long Down Activity Centre, you can also enjoy kayaking and other activities to make your date extra special.
2. Places for a coffee date in Lyndhurst
For a great coffee date, you might want to take a trip to The Juicy Café, tucked away at the historic High Street. This independent café is known for freshly made cakes, coffee, and sandwiches. If you're looking to impress your date, try The Garden Café, located in the grounds of Lyndhurst Library, where you can enjoy a coffee and cake in the outdoor seating area surrounded by the beautiful botanical gardens. The High Street also offers plenty of other coffee shops, cafes and tea rooms, such as The Old Post Office Tea Rooms, serving traditional homemade dishes, and the award-winning Lymington Tea Rooms for a more upmarket experience.
3. Lyndhurst galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
For history lovers, Lyndhurst is home to the New Forest Centre and Museum, which is a great place to explore the history and culture of the area. There is a permanent exhibition in the museum, as well as lots of interactive activities and displays. There are also a few art galleries in the area, such as the Lymington Art Gallery, where you can view and purchase pieces from local artists.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Lyndhurst
If you’re looking to add a bit of culture and entertainment to your date, The Hatchet Inn offers regular live music nights, and the Lymington Centre hosts a variety of comedy and musical acts throughout the year. For a more traditional night out, Lyndhurst is home to the Royal Victoria Country Park, which holds regular theatre performances and shows throughout the summer months.
5. Lyndhurst pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
There are plenty of pubs, bars and restaurants in Lyndhurst, from traditional pubs such as The Hatchet Inn, to more informal eateries such as Suzie-Q Diner, which offers a great selection of classic American dishes. The High Street also offers excellent restaurants, such as the award-winning Spice Merchant, offering traditional Indian cuisine, or the popular Italian eatery, La Rustica.
6. Other date ideas to try in Lyndhurst
For a more active date in Lyndhurst, why not take a bike ride around the New Forest? You can rent bikes from the New Forest Cycling Centre, who offer a range of different trails and routes to choose from. Another great date idea is to visit the nearby Paultons Park, which is home to Peppa Pig World, as well as many other rides and attractions, perfect for a fun day out. For those looking for something a bit more romantic, Lyndhurst is also home to the Highcliffe Castle, an impressive 19th century castle overlooking the sea. The castle grounds are open to the public, and make for a beautiful walk and picnic spot. There are also a number of nearby beaches for you to enjoy together.
