The Isle of Wight is just a short ferry trip away from Lymington. It is a picturesque journey from Lymington to Yarmouth and once there you can walk along the old railway track to Freshwater Bay if you are feeling energetic. Or take your bikes on the ferry and cycle the route. Alternatively, Yarmouth is a wonderful little town to browse around and has some wonderful pubs and restaurants which are particularly good for seafood.

Lymington is less than half and hour’s drive away. Lymington is a sailing town and you can walk down to the Quay and look at the boats. On Saturdays the town comes alive with a wonderful street market – well worth a visit. For more information on things to do in Lymington, visit Lymington.com

Bay Tree Cottage, Lyndhurst is in the heart of the New Forest and Bolton’s Bench is just a short walk away. The New Forest, now a National Park has miles of tracks for walking, cycling or horse riding. You can find a quiet, peaceful spot where you can feel at one with nature. Or have a picnic. For ideas visit The New Forest website

The beautiful village of Beaulieu is just a few miles away. Stroll around the unspoilt village and have an ice cream or visit the National Motor Museum. Included in the ticket price is entry to Palace House, home of Lord Montagu of Beaulieu and to the historic Beaulieu Abbey as well as to the historic village of Buckler’s Hard where naval ships were built in the time of Henry VIII. You can look at the worker’s cottages in the village street. It is in a beautiful spot beside the Beaulieu river and you can take a walk along the path beside the river. There are many special events at Beaulieu throughout the year. In September people from throughout the world come to visit the International Autojumble (www.beaulieu.co.uk) for details of all the events taking place at the Motor Museum.