Lyndhurst rose to prominence as a destination around the time William the Conqueror declared the New Forest his hunting ground in 1079. It quickly became known as the “capital” of the forest and was the destination of choice for royalty and other members of the the nobility when they visited the country.

The name Lyndhurst is likely to be of Saxon origin, meaning ‘linden wood’. The town received this name due to the abundance of this vegetation in the area. In fact, several specimens of British small-leaf linden can still be found around the village, although most of these stands have long since been destroyed.

There is evidence that Lyndhurst was a Bronze Age settlement (several mound burial sites can be found nearby) and Roman coins have been excavated at some sites. However, it was first notarized as a royal manor, granted to Amesbury Abbey (Wiltshire), in AD 980. Only a hundred years later, William the Conqueror designated the entire area between the River Avon and the River Test (Lower Wiltshire). as his personal hunting ground.

Lyndhurst’s importance grew as it connected many developing towns and cities, including Southampton, Lymington, Ringwood, Fordingbridge, Beaulieu, Romsey and Winchester. The beautiful setting became a magnet for artists and writers eager to share the haunt of royalty and nobility.

Today, Lyndhurst is a popular destination for tourists throughout the year and one of its main attractions is the New Forest Museum, where visitors can learn all about the history of the forest. It is an ideal base from which to explore the New Forest. There’s plenty to see and do, whether you’re interested in horseback riding, biking, or just walking the trails, Lyndhurst is a great starting point.

Located on the A35 in the center of the forest, Lyndhurst does not have a railway station, but can be easily reached by bus from Ashurst or Brockenhurst (both are on the main London Waterloo to Poole line). A one-way system operates around the city.

Accommodation in Lyndhurst hotels is plentiful and caters for all tastes and budgets. The Lyndhurst Park Hotel has perhaps the best location in the corner of the woods and is only a few minutes walk from the main street. For more luxurious accommodation, try the Limewood Hotel with attached spa.

Lyndhurst is a beautiful town and the perfect place to relax and unwind. There are many bed and breakfast guest houses in Lyndhurst (Lyndhurst B&B). Lyndhurst cabins can be rented by the week and sometimes just for a weekend. For those who prefer to be under tarp, campsites can be found at: Acres Down, Denny Wood, Green Pastures, Hill Farm, and Ocknell and Longbeach, all of which offer more self-catering accommodation.