On the banks of the River Avon lies the attractive market town of Fordingbridge, known locally as the “northern gateway to the New Forest”.
Once a bustling centre for cloth and brickmaking, Fordingbridge’s industrious past also includes a more colourful chapter as a smugglers’ haunt, one of the town’s more infamous rascals being Captain Diamond, the ‘Smuggler King’, a frequent denizen of the local hostelries. These days, you don’t have to be a rum-runner or a brandy-bootlegger to enjoy a sumptuous lunch in one of the town’s lovely pubs.
Fordingbridge’s most iconic landmark is its medieval ‘Great Bridge’ spanning the River Avon with its seven graceful stone arches. Take a stroll along the willow-wept riverbank and you’ll see a bronze statue of renowned post-impressionist painter and former resident Augustus John.
History lovers will enjoy a visit to the Fordingbridge Museum on Kings Yard which houses an impressive collection of antiquities and delves deep into the town’s illustrious past. Just off the bustling high street - with its artisan shops, tearooms, galleries and boutiques - lies St. Mary’s Church which, despite its restoration during the 19th century, still retains many of its impressive Norman features. It’s here, in the leafy shade of the churchyard, that you’ll find a memorial to James Alexander Seton, the last person to be killed in a dual on English soil.
There is plenty to do both in and around this much-loved riverside town, enough to occupy the whole family. The children’s play area and memorial gardens provide a lovely picnic setting, and if you fancy your chances with the local trout, fishing passes are available for purchase at the riverside kiosk. Another popular haunt for anglers - particularly those who enjoy, or would like to learn, the noble art of fly fishing - are the lakes at Rockbourne Trout Fishery, set in fifty-five acres of secluded woodland. Nature lovers will relish a trip to Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, a haven for all sorts of enchanting wildlife.
Walkers will be captivated by The Avon Valley Path which provides beautiful sweeping views of the river and the opportunity for a gentle detour across the wildflower meadows to the working mill at Alderholt for a traditional cream tea. Another great way to explore the towpaths and woodland trails of this gorgeous corner of Hampshire is by bicycle; the cycle centre at Sandy Balls can kit out the whole family and send you peddling on your merry way. Make a splash at the New Forest Water Park with its inflatable assault course and exciting variety of watersports, or venture into the woods to try your arm with medieval woodland weaponry and learn ancient bushcraft techniques under the watchful eye of the instructors at Insight Activities at Featherdown Farm.
After all that action and adventure, you’ll no doubt be in the mood for something a little more sedate, so why not head for the Roman Villa at Rockbourne, or Breamore House, an Elizabethan manor where you can discover more about Fordingbridge’s rich and fascinating history at the countryside museum.
You’ll have no problem keeping the whole family entertained when you holiday in Fordingbridge. Have a look at our list of holiday cottages in Fordingbridge and start planning your New Forest escape.
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