Military Attractions in the New Forest
The New Forest, famously created by William the Conqueror for medieval hunting, has long been associated with the military. Hurst and Calshot castles have defended the western Solent from attack, Buckler’s Hard was where Nelson’s fleet was built, and Lepe Country Park saw the famous D-Day Mulberry Harbours launched from its shores.
Broadlands
Broadlands, the home of Lord and Lady Brabourne by descent from PM Viscount Palmerston and the Earl Mountbatten, is open to the public by guided tour only. The Mountbatten Exhibition depicts the life and times of Lord and Lady Mountbatten. Limited tours, which include items normally
available by appointment, are offered on certain days.
Romsey
Hampshire
SO51 9ZD
Buckler’s Hard
Historic shipbuilding village near Beaulieu where ships for Nelson’s Navy were built in the 18th Century. See the Nelson display in the Maritime Museum and take a cruise on the river.
Buckler’s Hard
Beaulieu
SO42 7XB
Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway
A 200 acre oak woodland garden famous for the Rothschild collection of rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias. During WWII Exbury House was requisitioned as HMS Mastodon, and helped in
D-Day. Beaulieu River views and Arromanches plaque.
Exbury
Southampton
SO45 1AZ
Calshot Castle
A Tudor castle with a prominent location at the entrance to Southampton Water, with views across the Solent. The Castle is adjacent to Calshot Activities Centre. Former RAF flying-boat base.
Calshot Spit
Fawley
SO45 1BR
Hurst Castle
A Tudor castle where Charles I was imprisoned in 1648. The Victorian wings hold a large collection of guns and exhibitions. Fantastic views of
the Solent. Approach by foot or ferry from Keyhaven.
Lepe Country Park
Explore extensive remains of key D-Day embarkation point. Sections of Mulberry Harbour were made and launched from here. Beaches and cliff-top walks, Solent views, children’s play area and café.
Exbury
Southampton
SO45 1AD