On the banks of the Beaulieu River, in the heart of the New Forest National Park, you will find the peaceful haven of Buckler’s Hard. The Maritime Museum and Buckler’s Hard Story give an insight into the history of the village whilst a trip on the river or a walk beside the riverbank provides an opportunity to see some of its abundant wildlife.
Today the Beaulieu River is a mecca for sailors, although traffic is nothing new on the river. In medieval times when the Cistercian monastery at Beaulieu was flourishing, the river was the monks' 'main road'. It provided easy access for produce and goods from the Continent and from other parts of England, as well as an outward route for wool and timber from the Estate.
At the start of the 18th century, Buckler's Hard was little more than a convenient landing place on the Beaulieu River, the 'hard' being one of the few places where gravel stretched down to low-water mark. The 80ft wide street was originally designed to be used for fairs and markets, but developed into a successful shipbuilding yard.
Following a re-display of the upper level of the Maritime Museum in 2010, the middle area of the museum has now undergone a complete refurbishment. The new Maritime Museum offers an interpretation of Buckler’s Hard and the Beaulieu River focusing on its ships, which have been the inspiration for a wealth of art, literature and films.
The riverside path passes through the heart of the Beaulieu Estate and forms part of the Solent Way. The path passes some small creeks notable for plumed reeds, especially the Yellow Flag Iris in summer.
The Beaulieu River and its bank form part of a National Nature Reserve, which is particularly noted for its bird life. The river is an important wetland for waterfowl and supports many rare species including Dark Bellied Brent Geese, Teal, Ringed Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, and four different types of Terns. Other birds that can regularly be seen on the river's edge include Shelduck, Curlew, Redshank and Oyster Catchers
Opening Times & Special Events
The attraction is open every day of the year except 25 December. The last admission each day is 30 minutes prior to closing time.
10am - 5pm March to June, 10am - 5.30pm July to August, 10am - 5pm September to October, 10am - 4.30pm November to February
