For centuries Ringwood has been the traditional market town of the New Forest and the Avon Valley with its Market Charter dating back to 1226. Ringwood still has a lively Wednesday morning street market and has remained a delightful, unspoilt small historic town with both quaint and modern shops, street entertainment, restaurants, pubs and cafés. 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).
Whichever you prefer, either would be correct, for Ringwood stands on the western edge of the beautiful New Forest at a crossing point of the River Avon. It is the 'gateway' to the New Forest.

The Church of St Peter & St Paul (built 1853-55, Grade II* listed) is the third building on this site, a church at Ringwood being mentioned in the Domesday Book. it contains many memorials from earlier times, including a brass to John Prophete, Rector of Ringwood, who died in 1416, and an unusual thirteenth century double piscina. Most recent additions include a "new Forest" reredos. The tower ring has eight bells. The Jubilee Lamp which stands in the middle of the market square was erected by public subscription in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee and was restored at the time of the present Queen's Silver Jubilee.

Monmouth House

Monmouth House in West Street bears a plaque recording its historical links with the Duke of Monmouth. It was here that Monmouth, the illegitimate son of Charles II, was held after his abortive rebellion of 1865, and from where he unsuccessfully wrote to to his uncle James II begging for mercy.

Meeting House

Opposite the Visitors Information Centre is the Meeting House. Built in 1727, it is a fine example of a non conformist chapel complete with box pews. The Meeting House is now run as an exhibition centre and local history museum, with many old photographs of places mentioned in the Town Trail. During the summer, coffee is served every morning except Sunday and Monday. website

Shopping
From country clothes to antiques, food & drink, art galleries and speciality shops, all can be found in this attractive market town.

Walking
From a gentle stroll through to the Forest or on the Town Trail to a full days walking expedition.

Cycling
Country lanes or New Forest tracks all offer sightseeing at a gentle pace.

Water Sports
The numerous man made lakes provide opportunities for Sailing, Water Skiing or a fun family outing.

Fishing
Exceptional game or course fishing, large variety of fish species can be found in the Rive Avon and in well stocked lakes.

Horse Riding
Riding through the Forest is very popular, for both experienced riders or beginners.

Eating Out
Cafés and local restaurants provide a choice of English and Foreign cuisine. You will find good food, win bars, bistros, sandwich bars and coffee shops in the town.

Accommodation
Small hotels, bed and breakfast accommodation and campsites are all available in and around the town.