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All you need to know
With its pretty pebble beach, brightly-coloured beach huts and views of The Needles, Milford on Sea is every bit the traditional seaside holiday destination, yet is just a quick dash in the car to the majestic New Forest National Park.
On the shingle shores of Poole Bay lies the characterful village of Milford on Sea.
With its brightly-coloured beach huts and strolling promenade, this coastal parish is every bit the traditional seaside holiday destination. On a clear day, you’ll be able to gaze all the way to the chalky sea stacks known as the Needles which stand off the Isle of Wight, and under a blanket of twinkling stars on a dark night you’ll see the distant harbour lights of Christchurch, Poole and Bournemouth.
The best thing about Milford on Sea is the ease at which you can swap the fresh sea air of the Solent for the leafy woodland glades of the majestic New Forest, making it the ideal base from which to explore the many wending ways of Hampshire.
One of Milford on Sea’s most popular local walks takes in a sweeping stretch along Hurst Spit between the saltmarshes and mudflats and the sparkling bay waters. The path leads you all the way to the medieval ramparts of Hurst Castle and the brilliant white cylindrical walls of Hurst Point Lighthouse, which was built in the 1860s.
You’ll have no problem keeping the whole family occupied during your holiday in Milford on Sea with action and adventure to be had on both land and water; from pony trekking and mountain biking to stand up paddle boarding and sailing, be prepared for some fun-filled excursions.
If you’d rather while away the hours and stay busy doing nothing, there are plenty of quiet benches and sun-dappled greens where you can sit and watch the world go by with an ice cream or some fish ‘n’ chips. There is a gentle pace to this charming coastal village, the kind that invites you for a leisurely paddle along the seashore, or perhaps you’d like to chance your arm with the local crustaceans and dangle a crab line off Sturt Pond Bridge followed by a mooch around the pretty high street with its quirky artisan shops, tempting delicatessens, inviting cafés and cosy tearooms.
Milford on Sea is renowned for its hospitality and boasts an array of lovely pubs and sumptuous restaurants, perfect for a lazy lunch or a slap-up evening meal accompanied by a stunning sea view. The village also runs a busy social calendar, the highlights of which include the annual May Day festival, a music and arts showcase, a summer carnival, and an ever-popular seafood week.
Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or roam and explore, you’ll find the best of both worlds when you holiday at Milford on Sea. Have a look at our growing list of Milford on Sea holiday cottages and start planning your seaside escape.
A family run business showcasing the most exquisite gardens, Braxton Gardens is close to the sea and is a chance to relax outside and take in a spot of horticulture as well as having a cup of tea in their conservatory and entirely charming tea room. Cream tea and a stroll around the garden - isn’t that what holidays were made for?
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Braxton Tea Rooms & Garden was a great discovery! Lovely peaceful garden, amazing conservatory complete with vine laden with ripening grapes, plus fab food and friendly staff. Liked it so much I visited again later in the week. One of the highlights of my holiday.
September 2023
Bringing you sea fishing for small groups on the South Coast, Reel Easy Charters is modern sailing on the Solent from Keyhaven in Hampshire to the surrounding area including the Isle of Wight and Alderney. Evolution 33 is their trusty steed, and with more than 35 years of experience you’re in safe hands and excellent company.
Founded by people who are passionate about the beauty and preservation of the New Forest and surrounding area, More Than a Tour brings you a range of all inclusive New Forest tours, designed to show you around just as they would a friend. Walk, kayak and explore on a tailor made trip whether you’re looking for adrenaline, culture, history, or a mix of everything.
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A beautiful formal garden created more than 30 years ago, in the abandoned, walled kitchen garden of Yeatton House. Today it is a plant lovers paradise, packed with unusual and mature flowers, shrubs and trees from around the world.
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Good selection of healthy plants for sale.
July 2018
as guests of Apple court house the gardens were available for us to browse- however, one day we found out someone had opened the gats and entered the gardens for themselves arguing that they had driven from Devon. Wrong time of year to get the advantage of the beauty but could visualise the attraction
March 2019
We were disappointed that it is no longer open.
June 2023
Come and discover this artillery fortress built by Henry VIII at the seaward end of a spit. Commanding the entrance to the Solent, Hurst Castle offers one of the best views in England. It played a part in the imprisonment of Charles I in the 17th century and defended England from invasion threats in the 19th and 20th centuries. With plenty of open space for children to explore and fantastic views of the Isle of the Wight from the top of the Tudor keep, Hurst Castle is a great day out for the whole family.
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Very enjoyable visit to Hurst Castle. We had a return trip on the ferry. Lovely views to the Isle of Wight.
August 2017
Delightful castle to roam around with breathtaking views of Isle of Wight. Lots to look at and enough stairs, tunnels and exhibitions to keep the children interested for a couple of hours. The ferry ride over wasn't too long either - about 15 minutes.
August 2018
We visited on a gloomy and windy day so chose to go by ferry from Keyhaven, as the walk along the shingle bank would not have been kind to our dodgy hips and knees! Hurst Castle exceeded expectations and was well worth the visit, although the combined costs of entry to the Castle, ferry trips and car parking at Keyhaven made it quite an expensive afternoon out.
September 2019
Great day out for all the family. Took the ferry to the Castle as quite a long walk on shingle pathway, was worth the expense for the experience. Lots to see but would benefit from more information boards as little provided unless you take audio tour. Very friendly staff and fabulous tea room, great homemade cakes.
October 2019
We discovered this by accident. A long but enjoyable walk along the gravel spit led us to the castle which from the outside looked very forbidding. Really enjoyed exploring, seeing the huge guns & discovering the history around the place. Was delighted by the Garrison Theatre and the views from the top of the building. Took the little ferry back which was a treat - my feet certainly agreed with that decision! Each individual expense (entry fee, cafe & ferry) was not large but it all added up to a more expensive day than anticipated.
October 2019
Very interesting visit and the ferry ride was lovely.
October 2020
Took the first Ferry over to the castle - not a sailor but was sat at the front and it was very calm and a short distance. Castle has some great views and information both historical and what you could see around you. Walked back along the Spit which was some 2 miles and had lunch at the Lighthouse which was excellent - recommend the cocktails and two of our group were Vegan and the Lighthouse catered with vegan Mains and Dessert. Recommend
September 2021
Well worth the walk along the spit.
April 2022
Enjoyed the great walk from Newhaven along the shingle spit to the castle. Watched the fishermen and boats in the Solent. We decided not to walk back and caught the little ferry after having a coffee at the Castle cafe. A most enjoyable few hours. Didn't do the castle - quite expensive.....a bit annoyed you cannot use their loos - they are for castle visitors only!
May 2023
Worth a visit. Walk to it on the shingle beach and get the ferry back to keyhaven. Would have been good to have the odd guide to help with questions.
August 2023
Spectacular views and great fun crossing on the ferry from Keyhaven
September 2023
A great 'micro' ale pub with an ever-changing selection of craft beers, wines, soft drinks, gins and other spirits. Passionate about local produce, The Wash House works with the best artisan producers and breweries across the New Forest and South Coast.
The Wash House Bar (T:01590 644665) 27 High Street, Milford on Sea SO41 0QF
lovely small wine bar
June 2021
Great little bar ..Friendly staff .Right in centre of village .
June 2021
Great beers and other drinks, nice atmosphere
May 2023
Great beer and fun atmosphere. Very relaxing and welcoming
August 2023
A former 18th Century coaching inn full of character and friendly atmosphere. There’s a large and very pretty beer garden for sunny days, plus a children’s play area. For those who enjoy a pint, there are plenty of locally-brewed beers to choose from, alongside a good selection of wines and hot and cold beverages. Daily specials enhance the popular classic pub bar menu.
The Lazy Lion (T: 01590 641111) 32 High Street, Milford on sea, SO41 0QD
We visited The Red Lion twice and found it to be a welcoming traditional pub with quick and efficient service and a nice cosy atmosphere.
November 2017
Nice friendly village pub. Locals & publicans will make you very welcome. Paul & karen
June 2018
An excellent Sunday roast (best to book). It is obviously used by "the locals" which is a recommendation in itself
September 2018
Had Sunday roast, very disappointed. The potatoes were hard and what little veg they gave us was also hard.
September 2018
Now called The Lazy Lion. We had a very enjoyable family meal; menu is small but nicely varied and the food we had was really good. Staff were friendly and efficient.
August 2019
This pub has been rebadged as The Lazy Lion with new management. It was a nice Gastropub serving good food and with live acoustic music on a Sunday evening. Amazing chocolate ganache dessert that was worthy of an instagram picture!
December 2019
Excellent service. Great quality food and very good value too. We ate here 4 nights out of 7!
July 2020
Very friendly staff, good food, lovely atmosphere. We ate here three times in the week we stayed in Milford.
September 2020
Top notch Sunday roast and a warm welcome from the friendly staff.
December 2020
Lovely food and very friendly staff.
May 2021
Very warm welcome and good food
June 2021
The Lazy Lion is definitely recommended. The food was excellent and the staff very friendly.
July 2021
Excellent dinner and playground was an asset with children. Greeting from the manager/owner wasn't very welcoming.
August 2021
Nice village pub with good food and friendly staff, wednesday is pie and pud day and can recommend the beef and guinness pie
April 2022
We went twice during our stay. Amazing Sunday lunch, and again during the week with our daughter. Friendly staff, excellent food.
May 2022
Friendly service, well presented pub food, attractive indoor and outdoor spaces.
July 2022
had breakfast here on our last morning after cleaning cottage . Lovely food , plenty of choice ,the owner is really friendly .
August 2022
Great meal and service. Highly recommend.
September 2022
Good pub grub and friendly service
August 2023
Friendly pub, lovely decor. Great Sunday roast.
March 2024
Nice reasonably priced food. Very good gluten free options. Toilets could have done with a clean when we visited.
April 2024
Family run café serving delicious breakfasts, light lunches, coffees and cake all in a friendly, stylish environment overlooking the green at Milford on Sea.
The Paddle on the Green 4 Church Hill, Milford on Sea, SO41 0QH (T: 01590 642718)
Lovely coffee! Have been here many times, sitting on a bench on the Green.
April 2023
A unique wine bar and tapas restuarant, which also doubles up as an off-license, speciliasing in qyality wines, beer and spirits. On the edge of Milford on Sea's pretty village green, it's a lovely spot for light lunches, afternoon coffees or post-dinner drinks.
The Cave (T:01590 642195) 2 Church Hill, Milford on Sea SO410QH
brilliant bar with great staff
June 2021
Love this place good food great staff
July 2021
Stopped by for coffee which was very good. The tapas menu had some unusual choices & we regreted not being able to get back there to eat.
April 2022
Great wine and cocktail bar , great atmosphere
April 2022
Nice place for a drink and a snack in the early evening
May 2023
A firm favourite with locals and visitors, Ray’s Italian Kitchen offers morning coffee, brunch, lunch and a la carte evening meals big on flavour and taste. As well as the sophisticated restaurant there’s a deli packed full of delicious Italian treats including a luxury takeaway picnic menu, plus a sun soaked courtyard for al fresco dining in the warmer months.
Ray's Italian Kitchen 11 High St, Milford on Sea, Lymington SO41 0QF (T: 01590 645300)
Very good takeaway pizzas
April 2023
Good atmosphere and lovely staff but disappointing food.
June 2023
Had a lovely meal at this bustling vibrant restaurant
July 2023
Excellent food and service
August 2023
Absolutely lovely food. We had lunch and could not fault it. Very friendly, helpful staff too.
September 2023
A beautiful shingle beach with pretty painted beach huts, plenty of parking, and excellent coastal walks along Hurst spit to Hurst Castle with clear views of the Isle of Wight and needles. The superb Raft Rocks Restaurant is worth a visit with its Art deco style and roof terrace. You can also walk across the wildlife marshes to Keyhaven harbour and (in season) take the boat to Hurst Castle or the Isle of Wight.
Lovely village, plenty of shops and places to eat - no post office though.
June 2017
Fantastic sea location with goods pubs, shops etc
November 2017
Great for a dog walk along the spit to Hurst Castle. Needles Eye cafe is a welcome break, quite good food but very busy and a bit basic.
December 2017
great walking area, small cafe-the needles, children climbing play park- crashing waves over stoned beach
March 2019
Love Milford on Sea so old fashioned hasn't changed much since I use go as a child in the 1960/70s
April 2019
Due to my husband breaking his leg we hired a mobility scooter for our holiday. It was a joy to ride along the front at Milford. Wonderful views of The Needles and lots of benches along the way too. Great access from the car parks. Would be great if the short path from Milford to Keyhaven could be the same good surface. We felt the rough stones would be too hard to ride on.
June 2019
Lovely village with adequate shops on a very pretty green.
September 2019
Good place to go if you have a buggy or wheelchair as there is a tarmac path along the top of the cliffs with great views of the Needles, plenty of parking and a kiosk serving refreshments.
September 2020
One of my favourite places
July 2021
A proper gem. Great location for the new forest. The village is great and was only a short walk from our house. Not too busy or full of holiday makers. We will be back.
October 2021
Beautiful beach with views to The Isle of Wight. Good for swimming, picnics and walking. Very good car parking and public toilets. Lots of good places to eat and drink either next to the beach or in the village, a short walk away
July 2022
Brilliant beach.
September 2022
Lovely quiet location for a beach walk. Great for watching the sea and waves without the crowds.
June 2023
Milford on Sea is a very quintessential English village which has retained all its charm. The seafront is a delight to stroll along and The Needles Eye Cafe produces lovely coffee and lunches which is well worth a visit. A walk around Sturt Pond is also enjoyable and through to the village.
June 2023
A lovely place to stay. So much to see and do locally and within easy reach.
August 2023
Lovely sea walk within 15 minutes of the cottage.
March 2024
A stony beach with sandy areas as the tide goes out, and a great spot to do some fossil hunting. The cliffs are subject to considerable coastal erosion and at times parts of the beach can be cordoned off. The Beachcomber Café on the cliff top is one of the most popular cafés in the region. Plenty of parking in car parks along the cliff top as well as on-road parking.
Super walk, nice and easy and great place for a meal or tea and cake by the car park.
April 2019
A pleasant walk along the cliff top and along the beach. There was less cliff than last time we went to the New Forest.
June 2023
A picturesque, tree-lined beach of shingle, and sand at low tide. Good facilities on the cliff top including an excellent tea room, public toilets, baby change and a children’s play area in the Castle gardens. Plenty of parking and sloping access down to the beach. Highcliffe Castle beach is dog-friendly all year round.
Lovely clean sandy beach and a really i would highly recommend this spot for your car to break down takes the ouch out of waiting for the recovery truck
April 2017
Lovely
April 2019
Very picturesque beach with great access, looks good for a beach day
October 2021
Highcliffe beach, beneath the popular Cliffhanger Restaurant is a part sandy, part pebble beach. The beach has sloping access as well as steps down to the shore from the pay and display clifftop car park. To the east, Highcliffe beach towards Barton on Sea is a part sandy beach at the foot of the second most eroded cliff in England. This side of the beach is dog-friendly all year. However do check the tide times as high tide can make it difficult to walk along the beach.
To the west towards Highcliffe Castle beach, the promenade leads across the top of the small beaches inbetween the groynes with views across Christchurch Bay and Hengistbury Head. Groynes 4-8 have dog restrictions as does the promenade during the summer months, May-September.
A family friendly beach close to Mudeford and Christchurch Harbour with plenty to do for all. For those with disabilities or small children there is a beach level carpark, and to keep everyone safe there is a designated bathing area and a seperate area allocated for watersports, all overseen by lifeguards in the summer months. This pretty sand and shingle beach is backed by trees and countryside and if you fancy some fresh local seafood or simply a coffee, ice cream or a cold drink, the beach is home to the excellent Noisy Lobster, serving breakfast, lunch and supper all year round.
Beautiful beach, lots of sand for youngsters- definitely been high on our favourites list, for more than 30 years and still is now the 'children' are nearly 30! - well worth the drive from New Forest. The Noisy Lobster is great and now has an 'outdoor upstairs' too. The Beach Cafe, half-way along, is excellent too- used to do very good carrot cake! The connecting beach towards Steamer Point is dog-friendly all year which is a bonus. Walking to the quay end, you can catch the ferry to Hengistbury Head which is beautiful beach too and often quieter (top favourite!) Even this last week (JULY 2021) the 'kids' wanted to crab-fish from Mudeford Quay!!
August 2021
Nice beach with good facilities
April 2023