Why Ringwood?
The town gets its name either from the Saxon Rimue Wode, meaning the edge of the wood, or from the Doomsday version Rinevede, meaning a ford (vede) over a river (rine). Its history dates back to Saxon times when it was a Royal Manor, with a Church and a Mill. Ringwood Market and Fair date back to the 13th and 14th century when country produce, Forest ponies and cheeses were the staple commodities. Ringwood has a brewery and the many pubs, restaurants and cafés in and around the town provide good and varied entertainment. The Furlong shopping area - which has been developed over the former cattle market - augments the many established shops to provide a diversity of choice for visitor and resident alike.
Image courtesy of Stephen Lane www.photogrange.com
Activities in Ringwood
Make use of the town as a centre for exploring The New Forest and the Avon Valley on foot, on horseback or by bicycle. Enjoy the excellent fishing and water sporting opportunities, or just observe the flora and fauna of the surrounding area. A stay in Ringwood places you at the doorstep of the New Forest National Park, acres and acres of nature, natural beauty and indigenous wildlife.
Image courtesy of Wayne Robbins
Planning your stay in Ringwood
The town offers a varied choice of accommodation, plenty of good restaurants, pubs, and shops. There are numerous attractions like Liberty's Raptor and Reptile Centre, Ringwood Brewery, Ringwood Town & Country Museum, and places of interest within easy reach including the New Forest, the South Coast and the medieval city of Salisbury.
