Ringwood in the New Forest. An Insider’s Guide to the Town’s Vibrant Market and Tourism Offerings
Cuddled along the quiet River Avon, adjacent to the enchanting New Forest, lies Ringwood, a quaint market town in Hampshire. Located northeast of vibrant Bournemouth and southwest of busy Southampton, Ringwood charms visitors with its pretty setting and rich cultural heritage.
The name of the town originates from old English, where “rimuc” signifies “shore”. And “wudu” signifies “wood,” implying that Ringwood could be referred to as a small settlement by the New Forest’s edge.
History
If we delve into history, the town’s foundation dates back to the Anglo-Saxon era, and its existence was acknowledged when King Edgar granted land to Abingdon Abbey in 961 in a place known as Rimecuda. The name of this town developed over time due to folk etymology.
Ringwood’s Natural beauty
The town is renowned for its natural beauty and is nothing short of a paradise for tourists. It boasts long trails, expansive waterfalls, and lakes for hiking enthusiasts. Situated on the bounds of the New Forest, it offers a truly wild habitat teeming with deer, wild boar, and various bird species. Rolling hills, dense forests, and clearings further enhance its beauty.
Tourism spots
In the town, there’s no lack of beguiling spots and attractions to investigate. Here is an organised rundown of a portion of the must-visit places for sightseers:
Ringwood town centre:
Experience the appeal of this notable market town with its curious roads, shops, and neighbourhood diners.
The New Forest:
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the New Forest National Park, known for its ancient woodlands, heathlands, and picturesque landscapes.
Avon Valley path:
The Avon Valley Path, stretching 34 miles alongside the picturesque Avon River, showcases the breath-taking scenery of the surrounding countryside and rural areas.
Serving as a major attraction, it captivates tourists with its serene ambiance and opportunities for leisurely walks amidst nature’s beauty. This scenic route stands as a centrepiece of exploration, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil charm of the Avon Valley.
Moors Valley Country Park
The Park which is cooperatively run by the Dorset Council and Forestry England and situated near the town offers outdoor activities like pedalling ways and hiking trails.
Hatchet pond
Hatchet Pond is a very peaceful and soul-soothing place, nestled in the heart of the New Forest, surrounded by lush greenery and a reservoir of water, offering tourists the charm of enjoying a picnic by its banks. The chirping of birds here provides the heart with a different tranquility and joy, and it provides a chance to observe nature’s beauty and serenity up close.
St. Peter’s and St Paul’s Church
Situated at the core of the town community stands a historic church saturated with extremely old heritage, with its beginnings following back to the 13th century. Visitors are welcome to wonder about the complicated architecture and rich legacy of this revered milestone, which fills in as a demonstration of the getting through craftsmanship and profound meaning of its time.
Fordingbridge Museum
The museum located on the limit of New Forest (run by volunteers), is housed on two floors of an old granary encapsulates the history of Fordingbridge town. Find the immersive parades, snapshots, plans, and documents that display the confined rich history of its development from ancient times to the present, from pieces specifying its role as a crossing point on the River Avon to exhibits highlighting its bustling market heritage, visitors can gain insight into the cultural fabric and significance of this charming locale.
Pubs and restaurants
In Hampshire, the abundance of pubs and restaurants stands as a testament to its rich culinary culture, with locally brewed beers adding a unique touch for tourists. Here, you’ll find American casual dining spots and Italian restaurants offering exceptional cuisine services in abundance, along with several other renowned dining establishments. Some of the popular bar offerings are Sam’s Bar and Grill, Artemio’s Prime & Proper restaurant, and Lakeside Diner.
Culture and Heritage
In Ringwood, different occasions and celebrations praise the neighbourhood culture through customary moves and live exhibitions. Consistently, plans are made for fairs to happen. Individuals here are likewise gifted craftsmen, skilled at creating relics and models from the wilderness mud. Sightseers rush to Ringwood to investigate its set of experiences and neighborhood legacy, experiencing local people who smoothly share their traditions and customs.
These social components add to the special personality of the place, encouraging a feeling of satisfaction and having a place among its inhabitants while inviting guests to encounter its rich legacy first hand.
