In the heart of the New Forest, Buckler's Hard is more than just a picturesque village. Once, it was a thriving shipbuilding centre where warships for Nelson's fleet at Trafalgar were built. Now, it offers a place to visit from modern life.
I recently spent a few hours there to explore. Read on to find out what you need to know before you go…
History of Buckler's Hard
Buckler’s Hard has a deep history tied to shipbuilding. John, 2nd Duke of Montagu, first planned it as a trading port, but it became a major spot for building ships for the Royal Navy.
Located by the Beaulieu River, this quaint village was once full of activity. Craftsmen built warships used in important battles, such as the Battle of Trafalgar, during the Napoleonic Wars.
The ships made here were known for being sturdy and well-designed, which was important during wartime.
Bucklers Hard Today
Today, you can still see the old Georgian cottages where the shipbuilders lived, and the Maritime Museum in the village tells the story of how Buckler’s Hard was a key player in Britain’s naval history. It's a place where you can walk in the footsteps of 18th-century shipbuilders while enjoying a range of modern amenities.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go:
On Arrival
There’s a car park with plenty of spaces, and you pay before leaving at the ticket machines. (We stayed for about 3 hours, and it cost £4.80.)
I was always under the impression you also had to pay for entry, but there’s no charge unless you want to go to the museum or the river cruise…more on that further down.
The Captains Table
After parking the car, we went to the Captain's Table, a delightful little cafe serving jacket potatoes, paninis, breakfast, afternoon tea, snacks, ice cream and more. There’s indoor seating and plenty of outdoor picnic benches.
Exploring the Village
As you stroll down Buckler’s Hard's main street, you can watch boats glide gracefully along the Beaulieu River. The street itself, lined with period cottages, offers a picturesque view that transports you back to the 18th century.
You can visit some buildings, such as St Mary’s Chapel, a tiny church once the village school. It still has a service every Sunday morning.
Bucklers Hard to Beaulieu Walk
For those who enjoy a bit more activity, there is a scenic 2¼ mile footpath linking Buckler’s Hard to the nearby village of Beaulieu.
This trail passes through the North Solent Nature Reserve, showcasing diverse ecosystems from woodlands to salt marshes, and is a hotspot for birdwatching.
Highlights Along the Way:
- Duke’s Bath House - A historical thatched cottage now available as a holiday rental.
- Beaulieu River Boatyard - A lively hub of today’s boating activities.
- Keeping Marsh - Observe wildlife and plants in a recovering dredged mudflat. Check out the bird hide, which is accessible even during high tides.
- Burnt Oak Copse - Stunted oak trees reflect the challenging salty conditions.
- Bailey’s Hard - Spot the old brickworks chimney, a remnant of the local shipbuilding history.
- Curtle Meadows - Famous as a filming location for 'A Man for All Seasons' due to its unspoiled natural setting.
Finish your walk at Beaulieu Village, a charming place with shops, galleries, and places to eat.
Buckler’s Hard Museum
If you're keen to uncover more about Buckler’s Hard's rich heritage, consider visiting the Buckler’s Hard Museum. There is a small entrance fee, but gaining deeper insights into the village's fascinating shipbuilding history is well worth it.
River Cruise
We didn’t have time to do the river cruise, but we will definitely be back soon. However I did a bit of research, and here’s what you can expect:
- This year (2024) river cruise will operate from 29th March to 3rd November.
- Pay for a ticket via debit/credit contactless card payment aboard the boat.
- It lasts about 30 minutes.
- Here are the sailing times: 11.00, 11.45, 12.45, 13.30, 14.15, 15.00, 15.45, 16.30.
I’ve read many reviews, and the feedback is very positive. I can imagine it gets busy on a hot day in the summer, so give yourself plenty of time to join the queue.
Since visiting I found out you can take longer river cruises and see seals, which I had no idea about. You can read all about it here.
Staying and Dining at Buckler’s Hard
I had no idea you could turn your visit into a longer stay. The Master Builder’s Hotel at Buckler’s Hard is a fantastic choice for a staycation.
It overlooks the Beaulieu River, providing stunning views. The rooms are beautiful, each with a character of its own, reflecting the area's maritime heritage.
Henry’s Pub
I also stopped by Henry’s Pub, located within the hotel grounds, during my visit. We grabbed a coffee and enjoyed the beautiful river views from the pub. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
They offer a good selection of drinks, and the menu has plenty of options if you feel peckish. The setting, combined with good food and the scenic view, makes it an ideal place to sit back and relax.
Hampshire Explorer’s Verdict
Buckler’s Hard is a great place for a day out, offering lots of things to see and do. You can have a fun day spending money at the cafe, pub, and museum, or by taking a river cruise. All these activities are enjoyable, but they do cost extra.
If you want to save money, you can simply pay for parking, which isn't too expensive, and bring your own picnic. There's plenty of beautiful scenery to enjoy for free, and you can walk around the village and nearby paths without spending much at all. Whether you want to treat yourself or keep it cheap, Buckler’s Hard has something for everyone.