On the banks of the Beaulieu River, in the heart of the New Forest, you will find the peaceful haven of Buckler’s Hard. Originally called ‘Montagu Town’ by John 2nd Duke of Montagu, Buckler’s Hard developed as a thriving shipbuilding village. Ships for Nelson’s fleet at Trafalgar were built at Bucklers Hard including his favourite, HMS Agamemnon. Today the village continues to thrive, unspoilt by the passage of time.
The ‘Maritime Museum & Bucker’s Hard Story’, with its reconstructed 18th century cottage interiors, will give you an insight into the history of the village and the river on which it stands. A new exhibition from May 2008 tells the remarkable story of the P&O liner, SS Persia, its links with Rolls Royce and the Montagu family and its sinking by a German U-Boat during WWI. Visitors can also enjoy a trip on the river or a walk through the woodlands to see some of the abundant wildlife and to take in the peace and natural beauty of the Beaulieu Estate.
By visiting Buckler’s Hard, you are contributing to its upkeep.
Open every day from 10am. Exit 2 M27.
