A Visitor's Guide To Ringwood, New Forest by:Nick Currer

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Ringwood town used to be an agricultural centre

, but the closure of its cattle market in 1989 significantly reduced traffic to the town and it became less important to surrounding farms. Today, Ringwood provides an attractive destination for tourists wishing to explore the New Forest and an historic market town.

The area of Rimucwude (Rim of the Forest) is first documented in 955 and The Doomsday Book (1086) indicated that there was a church and a mill at Ringwood. However, it was not until 1226 when King Henry VIII granted the Lord of the Manor the right to hold a market in Ringwood on Wednesdays that the town saw a dramatic growth in population and housing.

Through the ages employment was predominantly to do with agriculture and the timber trade. Timber was harvested in the New Forest and taken to mills along the River Avon. It wasn't until the mid 16th Century that it became recognised as the main centre for local produce and the trading of wild new forest ponies. The establishment of the railway in the 19th Century increased trade and resulted in further expansion of the town.

One industry to survive and prosper is the brewing industry. Founded in 1725 mixing the crystal clear waters of the River Avon with malted barley the Ringwood brewing industry continues to produce fine cask ales and services the local Inns and public houses. Many of the existing Inns have been serving the public for hundreds of years.
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Ringwood is an ideal location to explore the New Forest, try your hand at fishing on the River Avon or to simply relax and unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of an historic market town. Located on the western edge of the New Forest, it is only a few miles from Bournemouth's beautiful sandy beaches. It is easy to reach by car (A31) and by train being on the direct route from London to Dorchester.

There are many beautiful places to stay in the area including some exceptional country hotels to enjoy. Tyrells Ford Hotel is one such hotel, set in 8 acres of the beautiful Avon valley, it offers uncompromising service and affordable luxury.

There are many guest houses providing bed and breakfast accommodation in Ringwood (Ringwood B&B). In addition to B&B, Ringwood cottages are available to hire for those more interested in self catering. Ringwood camping can be found at Forest Edge Holiday Park, Red Shoot Camping Park, Shamba Holidays and Oakdene Forest Park all offering further self catering accommodation.

About the author

The New Forest Hotels is a directory linking to all accommodation in the New Forest. Find Ringwood Hotels the easy way and book your stay in the New Forest.

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