Milford-on-Sea to Lymington

The walk: From Milford-on-Sea, this walk goes East along Milford seafront, then out along the shingle spit to Hurst Castle, from where a ferry is taken to Keyhaven. The coast path is then followed down the banks of the Lymington River estuary, to the port of Lymington.

Map

NB The map shows my GPS track, with various diversions and excursions which you may not wish to follow precisely.

Why do it: Impressive, long, shingle spit; formidable Hurst Castle , positioned to protect the Western approaches of the Solent (well worth the entrance fee when open); enjoyable ferry ride; surprisingly remote path along the shoreline, with adjacent nature reserves and lagoons offering good opportunities for birdwatching; views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight and the Needles. Nautical activity on the Lymington River.

Distance: 11.5 miles

Logistics: I took the train to Lymington Town (NB not the harbour), then bus X1 to the start of the walk at Paddy's Gap on the coast at the eastern end of Milford on Sea. I walked back to Lymington Town station.

Challenges: The shingle spit out to Hurst Castle is quite heavy going - you could get the Keyhaven Ferry both ways. If you want to visit the castle, make sure it's open (google it). If the ferry to Keyhaven is not running, you have only two choices: walk back or swim.

Refreshments: Cafes etc at Milford-on=Sea. Small tea shack at Hurst Castle. Plenty of options in Lymington (I had Fish and Chips from Deep Blue in the High Street.)

Nearby Walks

To the East, there is disappointing lack of coastal access until you reach Calshot Spit and Lepe Country Park

To the West, Milford-on Sea to Christchurch

Across the Solent: Freshwater Bay to Yarmouth

Photos