The eleventh century name of Ringwood was "Rincevede" which seems to have meant a ford or "wade" (vede) over a river or watercourse (rine). The modern spelling of the name has suggested to many people the idea of a place ringed by trees, and either meaning is valid, since the River Avon is still much in evidence, though bridged, and the growing population has pushed the encircling trees further from the centre of the town. Monmouth House near the Market Place is said to have lodged James, Duke of Monmouth after the battle of Sedgemoor. A weekly market is held on Wednesdays in the Market Place and the town celebrated the 750th anniversary of the Market Charter in 1976.

Tourist and Other Information sources

Local Tourist Information	Local Information Point	Local Council
Visitor Information Centre, Main Car Park, Lyndhurst, Hampshire SO43 7NY Telephone: (023) 8028 3914, (023) 8028 3444	Ringwood Library, Christchurch Road, Ringwood, Hampshire BH24 1DW Telephone: (01425) 474198	New Forest District Council, Appletree Court, Lyndhurst, Hampshire SO43 7PA Telephone: (023) 8028 5000

Parking in Ringwood

Public car parks for long stay (situated between A31 and The Furlong) including Coach and lorry park plus 2 short stay car parks: The Furlong, situated between Meeting House Lane and the Furlong; and Blynkbonnie, situated between Christchurch Road and Bickerley Road. Access via Christchurch Road. All parking is free.

Refreshments

Variety of pubs, and places to eat in the High Street.

Access by Public Transport

Public Bus Services operate to Ringwood from Bournemouth, Southampton, Salisbury and Winchester.