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Escape to the beauty spot of Buckler’s Hard, where history and stunning scenery come together for an unforgettable trip out in the New Forest countryside.
Once a bustling shipbuilding village where ships for Nelson’s Navy were built, this charming village is now a peaceful haven. Relax with a cuppa and a slice of cake, take a ramble beside the Beaulieu River, or delve into the village’s history in the Maritime Museum.
In the Buckler's Hard Museum you will discover the fascinating story of the village and the ships it built. Listen in on conversations between villagers of the past in the 18th century New Inn and follow the stories of the 19th and 20th century residents in an exhibition about village life.
Between Easter and October, take a cruise on the Beaulieu River. This 30 minute voyage gives a close-up view of the wildlife along the banks of the river and tells rich tales of its past. If you’re lucky you might even spot a seal!
For visitors who are yearning for even more history, you can take a trip back in time at the Shipwright’s Cottage, or explore the Chapel of St Mary’s, with its smugglers’ cellar beside the altar.
After working up an appetite, there are plenty of places to stop for that long-awaited coffee with a friend. Tuck into an afternoon tea or a light lunch from the Captain’s Table, or enjoy a pint and a meal at The Master Builder’s House Hotel.
The village is an ideal destination for walkers and cyclists, who can enjoy the scenic 2 mile footpath between Beaulieu and Buckler’s Hard.
Entry to the village is free (a parking charge applies). A small admission charge applies for the Museum and River Cruise.
Buckler's Hard village is free to enter. For those arriving by vehicle, a parking charge applies, which helps maintain this heritage site. If you wish to explore the Maritime Museum or River Cruise, a small admission charge applies.
Parking Charges
Up to 3 hours - £5
Over 3 hours - £7.50
(Annual parking pass available - please visit bucklershard.co.uk)
Maritime Museum
Adult: £5.90
Child (5-17): £4.00
Senior (60+): £5.40
Family (1A+4C or 2A+3C): £16.00
River Cruise (Easter - October)
Adult - £7.00
Child (5-17) - £6.50
Senior Citizen - £5.00
Family (1A+4C or 2A+3C) - £20.00
By Road From London take the M3, then the M27 westbound, exiting at Junction 2 on to the A326. Follow the brown and white tourist signs for either Beaulieu or the National Motor Museum. At Beaulieu Village, follow the brown and white tourist signs to Buckler’s Hard. The approximate travel time from London is 2 hours. By Rail Take the train from London Waterloo to Brockenhurst. From there, a short local taxi ride will get you to Buckler's Hard.
* Open daily from 10am. Last entry to the car park is 5pm. Exit gates are locked at 8pm.
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