Have you ever dreamt of living in Fordingbridge or the New Forest?

If you are moving to Fordingbridge, it could suit you very well.

Fordingbridge is one of those places that feels quintessentially English. A small historic town with oodles of riverside charm, abundant access to nature, great local amenities and a real community feel.

What more could you ask for? Good schools might be at the top of your list; Fordingbridge has those too!

No matter why you are thinking about moving here –  with family, retiring to a quieter life, or simply curious about what the town offers, there is much to discover.

Our guide gives you the latest facts and practical insights about the town and the beautiful area it sits within.

Overview: What Fordingbridge Is Really Like

Fordingbridge is a small but attractive riverside town in Hampshire, right on the edge of the stunning New Forest and near the borders of Dorset and Wiltshire.

Its population is around 6,200 resident,s just big enough to feel lively, but small enough to know your neighbours.

Life here blends historic character with modern convenience: independent shops, traditional pubs and cafés, leafy parks, and plenty of outdoor space.

The town’s centre remains friendly and walkable, with community events and groups keeping things social year-round.

If you want to visit larger towns and cities, Southampton, Ringwood, and Bournemouth are all within easy reach of Fordingbridge by car or by train.

History & Identity

Fordingbridge has deep roots going back to the Domesday Book, originally known simply as “Forde.”

The town grew up around a river crossing, and its seven-arched medieval bridge over the River Avon remains its iconic landmark.

Although it was once a bustling market town and even associated with smuggling lore in centuries past, today Fordingbridge is mostly known for its traditional charm, history, and community spirit.

You can find out more about the town’s interesting history via the Visit Hampshire website.

Schools & Local Services

Many families choose to move here because the local education options are solid, with several “Good” rated schools (including Fordingbridge Infant and Junior Schools.

Older children in the town and surrounding areas generally move on to Burgate School & Sixth Form.

There’s also a range of nurseries and pre-schools available for younger children.

The town’s facilities also include a park with children’s play areas, a pavilion and a skate park, public sports fields, and community spaces maintained by the local council.

There is more information about services on the Fordingbridge Town Council’s web pages.

Community & Lifestyle

Fordingbridge may be small, but it punches well above its weight in community life:

• Clubs and social groups — from football and badminton to rotary and fitness classes — help you meet people and stay active.
• Local markets and independent shops give the High Street a unique character not found in many bigger towns.
• Events like village markets, fairs, and seasonal community gatherings keep things fun year-round.

This isn’t a transient commuter town — it’s a place people set down roots.

You can check out local clubs, social groups and societies when you visit the Town Council’s website here.

Outdoor Life & Green Space

There is so much to do when you move to Fordingbridge and if being close to nature matters to you, the town delivers:

• The River Avon offers scenic walking routes and waterside leisure.
• The Avon Valley Path is a long-distance walking trail that passes directly through the area — perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
• Just a short drive away is New Forest National Park, with endless heathland, forests, and wildlife to explore.

Whether you love cycling, walking, picnics by the water, or exploring nature with the family, the outdoor opportunities here are hard to beat.

Transport & Connectivity

Everyone enjoys a day away from time to time. Some locals need to commute for work. Thankfully, Fordingbridge is well-connected for a rural town:

• The A338 gives direct road access north to Salisbury (around 12 miles) and south to Ringwood and Bournemouth.
• Rail services are not in town itself — the nearest station is in Salisbury (about a 20-minute drive), offering access to numerous locations up and down the UK.
• Local bus routes link Fordingbridge to surrounding villages and towns.

Plus, Bournemouth Airport is under half an hour away by car, making travel beyond the region straightforward for business or holiday flights.

Property & Cost of Living

Property in Fordingbridge varies from charming period homes to modern family homes.

Detached houses tend to dominate the market, while smaller homes and cottages offer options for first-time buyers or downsizers.

House prices here typically sit above the national average but are generally more affordable than larger towns in the Southeast, thanks to the town’s rural feel and strong demand linked to its natural setting and community vibe.

If you are unsure of what you can afford, take time to check out popular online property sites such as Rightmove and Zoopla.

Things to Do & Nearby Attractions

There’s more here than meets the eye:

• Fordingbridge Museum − local history and community events.
• Breamore House − a stunning Elizabethan mansion with gardens and exhibitions nearby.
• Countless walking, cycling and picnic spots in the New Forest National Park.

And if you’re happy to venture a bit further, spots like Paultons Park (family theme park) and the Beaulieu Motor Museum are accessible day trips.

For a list of the 20 top attractions in the area, go to the Komoot website.

Healthcare & Amenities

Healthcare provisions when living in Fordingbridge is reassuringly strong for a small town, giving residents reliable access to everyday medical support as well as more advanced treatment when needed.

The town’s GP surgeries are usually the first port of call, offering everything from routine health checks and vaccinations to chronic condition management and minor procedures.

For anything requiring specialist input, residents typically travel to Salisbury District Hospital, around a 20–25-minute drive away. It’s a well-regarded hospital with an excellent reputation for its specialist departments, surgical expertise, maternity services, and emergency care.

Fordingbridge also caters well to those who prefer a more holistic approach to wellbeing. The town has a growing network of alternative and complementary therapy practitioners, offering options such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, physiotherapy, massage therapy, and other holistic treatments.

Overall, whether you’re looking for day-to-day medical support, specialist treatment, or wellness-focused therapies, Fordingbridge offers access to a broad range of healthcare options, giving residents confidence that all aspects of their wellbeing are covered.

Is Living in Fordingbridge Right for You and Does it Tick Your Boxes?

Fordingbridge suits people who want:

✔ A relaxed, close-knit community
✔ Easy access to nature and outdoor life
✔ Good schools for families

✔Excellent healthcare provision.
✔ A quieter pace without total isolation

If you thrive on big city buzz, this might feel a bit too peaceful for you; however, for most residents, that’s exactly the charm.

Planning Your House Move with RH Pardy

Once you’re ready to make the move to start living in Fordingbridge, choosing a reliable removals company is the best way to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

Look no further, R.H. Pardy Moving & Storage Ltd is a name on which you can depend.

As proud members of the British Association of Removers (BAR), we work to the highest industry standards, giving you complete peace of mind on moving day.

Whether you’re planning a small local move or a full household relocation, our team provides a professional, well-priced, and fully managed service tailored to your needs.

To get your move underway, call 01202 499390 or complete our quick online contact form.

We’ll be delighted to help you settle into Fordingbridge minus the stress!