Located at the heart of the beautiful, historic coastal market town of Lymington, St Barbe is both a dynamic museum and highly regarded art gallery that appeals to both locals and New Forest visitors. The museum explores the history of Lymington and the New Forest Coast, inspired by local pride, and supported by the local community, its collections and colourful, hands-on displays offer a fascinating insight into the area for all ages. Since the St Barbe Galleries opened in 1998 they have established a reputation for hosting one of the best exhibition programmes in the region. The gallery specifications enable us to show works from national collections and this has resulted in major exhibitions that have drawn acclaim from across the UK.
Had a short visit to this museum, would loved to have stayed longer but teen son had other ideas..... Exhibits change regularly so check the website to see what's on. Exhibits of mechanical works which were quite fascinating. Really wanted to try the cafe but see first paragraph. The entrance ticket lasts all day, and there's a separate exhibition of local history. Staff at entrance desk were very helpful and informative.
This is the most engaging and inspiring museum that I've taken my 6 year old in ages - London attractions included. There is so much interaction, it would motivate almost any child (or visitor!) to remain curious about the possibilities being presented long after the visit. Nice one!
What a glorious museum . Friendly staff, clean and well maintained. Lots of interactive things for the children to do and with information clearly displayed and easily absorbed. Honestly a delight !!! I came with my children aged 24 and 21 and we loved it !!! Wish I had grandchildren to bring too as such fun for them. Cafe had good choice and all delicious - clean with friendly staff . 10/10 all round
A really lovely museum and cafe and the staff were so friendly and helpful. We visited yesterday to see Steve Poole's "Uncommoners" photographic exhibition which is absolutely stunning with a range of fascinating subjects giving such an insight into the life of the New Forest.
We love this place - and are happy to drive for two hours to reach it! The exhibitions are imaginatively curated and beautifully presented - and the cafe is a little gem. Really lovely staff, too.
A very interesting museum about the local history, dating back millennia.
On-site services
Live performances
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Restaurant
Toilets
Discounts for kids
Family discount
Good for kids
Has changing table(s)
Kid-friendly activities
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Had a short visit to this museum, would loved to have stayed longer but teen son had other ideas..... Exhibits change regularly so check the website to see what's on. Exhibits of mechanical works which were quite fascinating. Really wanted to try the cafe but see first paragraph. The entrance ticket lasts all day, and there's a separate exhibition of local history. Staff at entrance desk were very helpful and informative.
This is the most engaging and inspiring museum that I've taken my 6 year old in ages - London attractions included. There is so much interaction, it would motivate almost any child (or visitor!) to remain curious about the possibilities being presented long after the visit. Nice one!
What a glorious museum . Friendly staff, clean and well maintained. Lots of interactive things for the children to do and with information clearly displayed and easily absorbed. Honestly a delight !!! I came with my children aged 24 and 21 and we loved it !!! Wish I had grandchildren to bring too as such fun for them. Cafe had good choice and all delicious - clean with friendly staff . 10/10 all round
A really lovely museum and cafe and the staff were so friendly and helpful. We visited yesterday to see Steve Poole's "Uncommoners" photographic exhibition which is absolutely stunning with a range of fascinating subjects giving such an insight into the life of the New Forest.
We love this place - and are happy to drive for two hours to reach it! The exhibitions are imaginatively curated and beautifully presented - and the cafe is a little gem. Really lovely staff, too.
A very interesting museum about the local history, dating back millennia.
