The Malt Cinema

Film buffs will find proper old-school charm at this independent cinema tucked away in Lymington's town centre. The Malt Cinema operates in what was once a maltings building, and the original character shows through in the intimate screening rooms with their sloped floors and cosy atmosphere.

This isn't your multiplex experience - think carefully curated programming that mixes the latest releases with arthouse films, documentaries, and the occasional classic revival. The single screen means you'll want to check what's on before making the trip, but that's half the appeal. Staff actually know their films and can point you towards something worth watching.

Families will appreciate the relaxed vibe - no corporate stuffiness here - though very young children might find some of the foreign language offerings a bit much. Evening screenings work well for couples staying at nearby parks like Shorefield Country Park or Lytton Lawn, especially when combined with dinner in Lymington's High Street.

The cinema's compact size means tickets can sell out for popular films, so booking ahead makes sense. Allow a couple of hours for the full experience, including a browse around Lymington's independent shops beforehand. It's a lovely counterpoint to beach days and forest walks if the weather turns or you fancy something different from the usual New Forest activities.