If you are looking for a new destination to visit. How’s about taking a trip along Beaulieu River. With a 5 knot speed limit, the speed of your vessel will set the pace for an enjoyable day in the Hampshire countryside.

Take a look at our guide below to ensure you make the most of your visit.

Buckers Hard Yacht Harbour

Where to moor

If you are visiting Bucklers Hard, you are able to visit as a short stay guest between 12-3.30pm only at Beaulieu River, Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour.  Radio Beaulieu River Radio on VHF channel 68 or call 01590 616200 as you approach the marina.

The Master Builders (right) within Bucklers Hard

What to see and do

Bucklers Hard 

Built as Montagu Town in the 18th century by the second Duke of Montagu who envisaged a free port for the import and export of sugar from the West Indies.

When that venture was abandoned, the area was renamed Bucklers Hard and started to build ships including those built for Nelson’s fleet at Trafalgar.

Today, the village continues to thrive, unspoilt by the passage of time; As you stroll along the nearby Woodland Walk you will discover how the local timber at Buckler’s Hard was used in the 18th and 19th centuries to construct ships for the British Navy.

Visit the Maritime Museum which tells the story of this unique village, bringing to life the characters who lived here at the time of Henry Adams, the Master Shipbuilder at Buckler’s Hard between 1744 and 1805.

Bucklers Hard is a museum and it does charge an entrance fee.

Adjacent is the Master Builders a wonderful pub where you can enjoy a lovely meal inside or out. They also have accommodation.

Beaulieu Village and the Montagu Arms

Beaulieu Village

Carry on along Beaulieu River until you come to the village. It’s a lovely place with a fantastic pub and Michelin restaurant in the centre. Visit the Montagu Arms bar or restaurant and you will not be disappointed. Keep your eyes open for the wild horses, donkey’s and pigs that are free to roam the New Forest.

The village is a great stop if you are interested in bird watching. Local varieties include the Dartford Warbler, European Honey Buzzard and the Hobby.

A little further afield

National Motor Museum Beaulieu 

The National Motor Museum has over 250 vehicles telling the story of motoring from World Land Speed Record Breakers to Formula 1. Enjoy a ride around the exterior of the museum on the Monorail or aboard the replica 1912 open top London Bus.

Visit the World of Top Gear where the cars are parked in the condition they finished their challenges in. World of Top Gear has exhibits from both the presenting era of Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May  and fresh new exhibits from Matt LeBlanc, Chris Harris and Rory Reid. But will they offer clues as to who is the face behind the Stig’s Mask? You’ll have to visit to find out!

Included in your visit to Beaulieu is entry into Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538, and Beaulieu Abbey with its exhibition and film of monastic life. Visit the Secret Army Exhibition, telling the story of wartime Beaulieu and the training of secret agents.

To visit the National Motor Museum you would be best to moor at Hythe (which is free under MDL Freedom Berthing) and catch the bus which should take you to the door.

The Steam railway at Exbury Gardens

Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway 

There is something to delight everyone at Exbury, from the world-famous displays of rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias, to riverside walks, the steam railway, tea rooms, play area and art exhibitions.

Come and discover the magic of the gardens with over 20 miles of pathways, three woods and parkland to explore, there are surprises around every corner.

Although near the river, the best way to get to Exbury from Beaulieu would be via public transport. If you are visiting during the summer, moor up at Bucklers Hard, Lymington or Hythe and catch the beach bus. Which is an hourly bus that links Lymington to Hythe Ferry via Beaulieu, Bucklers Hard, Exbury Gardens and Lepe beach. For further details visit www.thebeachbus.info.