This museum and art gallery is one of the finest in the area, and is a great family destination with hands-on displays and activities for all ages.

Visitors to the museum can explore the histories of the towns, villages and landscape that make the New Forest coast so special.

In addition to its regular local history events and exhibitions programme, St. Barbe offers both self-led and led sessions to schools and groups of all ages

Museum Displays

Visitors can enjoy learning about the New Forest coast through a variety of hands-on activities, including costumes to try on, a smuggler to search, objects to handle and a replica pilot boat.

Local History Programme

The history of the local area is explored through an annual programme of local history events and exhibitions.

Collections

Aspects of life in the local towns and parishes including Lymington, Boldre, Hordle, New Milton, Sway, Barton-on-Sea and Milford-on-Sea, from pre-history to the present day are represented by the museum's collections.

In addition there is an extensive photographic archive.

Local Arts and Crafts

Wonderful displays of local arts and crafts can be found in the 'Old School Gallery'; this gallery is free to enter and all pieces exhibited are available to purchase.

Gift Shop

Visitors to St Barbe will also find a great gift shop with a range of unusual and interesting items including local history books, local produce, a wide range of cards and exhibition catalogues and postcards.

Visitors' Information Centre

The visitors' information centre offers an extensive array of guides, leaflets and information about the local area. Helpful volunteers are at hand to offer guidance.

Opening Times

The museum is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday, including bank holidays (closed on 25th and 26th December, and 1st January)

Admission

There is a small charge to visit the museum; please see the website for details.

St. Barbe Museum & Art Gallery is an independent museum that is governed by a registered charity, Lymington Museum Tust. It works extensively with volunteers and partners to bring the story of the New Forest coast to life, for both visitors to the area and the local community.