Major exhibition, Lymington Afloat, being launched by St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery to showcase the importance of town’s river

A MAJOR new exhibition exploring Lymington River’s vital role in shaping the town’s social and economic fabric will soon launch.

St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery on New Street is hosting Lymington Afloat from Saturday 14th September until 11th January 2025.

This will delve into how the river has influenced both community and industry, covering its historical significance to its modern-day impact.

A spotlight will be shone on the pioneering work of local marine designers, engineers and builders, from the earliest days to the present.

Visitors are promised they will gain a comprehensive understanding of how the river has been central to Lymington’s development.

Topics covered will range from the flourishing salt industry on its banks to its current reputation for ground-breaking yacht design.

The attraction also supports a two-day Festival Weekend at the end of September, which includes a chance to board historic Second World War vessels.

Having always been regarded as a lifeline for the town, the river has provided sheltered anchorage, facilitated trade routes and driven the maritime economy.

It remains crucial as a hub for visitors, a link to the Isle of Wight and a dynamic natural environment facing the challenges of climate change and increased river traffic.

With much attention focused on the river's final stretch towards the sea, the exhibition will also explore the lesser-known northern waters.

This is where the river rises in the heart of the New Forest and flows through diverse habitats, making it one of Britain’s richest rivers for wildlife.

A St Barbe spokesperson said: “The aim of the exhibition is to celebrate the contribution of the people and marine-related businesses that have spread the reputation of the river and expertise of the marine industries over the centuries.”

The Festival Weekend, on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September, features a number of maritime-based activities around the town.

It aims to encourage more people to get afloat by visiting an historic ship, trying a waterborne activity, or taking a gentle cruise.

There will also be the Town Trail, inviting followers to take advantage of the retail and hospitality businesses in Lymington.

Activities will include a chance to try out indoor rowing machines and an onshore rowing boat simulator with Lymington Amateur Rowing Club at the town quay.

People can visit a Second World War motor gun boat and high speed launch on the Harbour Master’s pontoon, near the Bath Road car park.

There will also be free boat trips, food and demonstrations at the Royal Lymington Yacht Club and Lymington Town Sailing Club.

Further details of the exhibition and Festival Weekend, including the Town Trail map, will be available in St Barbe’s Lymington Afloat brochure, set to be delivered to residents.

The St Barbe spokesperson added: “Lymington Afloat offers a unique opportunity to connect with the town's rich maritime heritage and explore the future possibilities of its relationship with the river.”

For more information visit stbarbe-museum.org.uk