About This Attraction
Buckler’s Hard village
Step back in time to the tranquil, idyllic village of Buckler’s Hard. Once the construction site for Nelson’s fleet, this historical, ship building village is located on the edge of Beaulieu river. Take a stroll along the quaint high street and while away the hours watching boats bobbing along the river.
Buckler’s Hard is the perfect location for relaxation or if you’d prefer to stretch your legs, there’s a picturesque 2 mile footpath running between Beaulieu and Buckler’s Hard.
Buckler’s Hard museum
Buckler’s Hard was originally a free port for sugar trading that developed into a thriving naval shipbuilding village. A key attraction for any shipbuilding enthusiasts, the Buckler’s Hard museum is packed with 18th Century artefacts, models and historical stories.
Discover fascinating recreations of a typical labourer’s home and a shipwright’s cottage as you learn how villagers once lived. Visitors can also see artefacts from shipwrecks, Nelson’s childhood, and Sir Francis Chichester’s daring sailing trip around the world.
River cruise
Between Easter and October visitors are welcomed on board the Buckler’s Hard river cruise. Set sail and feel your worries melt away whilst learning about the history of this unspoilt river. During your cruise, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the variety of wildlife that call Beaulieu River home.
Shipwright’s cottage
Shipwright’s were skilled craftsmen who excelled in building impressive wartime ships. Guests can now delve deeper into the life of shipwright Thomas Burlace and his family by exploring a reconstruction of his cottage. With free entry and features like the family’s bible and luxury decorated tableware, this is an experience not to be missed.
For young guests
Buckler’s Hard promises to be a day out for the whole family and there is plenty to keep little ones entertained. They’ll love climbing hills and running free in the large open areas of natural beauty, perfect to burn off any restless energy. In addition, the impressive boats travelling along Beaulieu River are sure to draw their eye.
Buckler’s Hard museum is also the ideal expedition for curious young minds. With interactive exhibits, they’ll learn to tie a bowline, caulk a seam and more. There is even a quiz trail designed to engage kids. They’ll love exploring with Bailey and Buckle, the shipyard cats, to discover more about Buckler’s Hard.
Other attractions
After exploring Buckler’s Hard village and museum, guests can visit St Mary’s Chapel. The Chapel was once used as the village school but is now a peaceful retreat for quiet and respite. What’s more, St Mary’s chapel hides a secret history. Visitors can take a peek through the viewing window positioned next to the altar to see a hidden cellar that may have once been used by smugglers.
Eager to learn more? Jump back in time to the 1700s when Buckler’s Hard was a well-known ship building village. Guests can now see a recreation of the timber framed shipwright’s workshop used to build the HMS Agamemnon in 1781.
For more information and up to date ticket prices and opening hours, visit the official Buckler’s Hard website today.
Open daily from 10am. Last entry to the car park is 5pm. Exit gates are locked at 8pm. The Buckler’s Hard Museum, Shipwright’s Cottage and Shipwright’s Workshop will be closed from Monday 28th November 2022 to Sunday February 5th 2023.
Entry to the village is free (a parking charge applies). A small admission charge applies for the Maritime Museum and River Cruise. See the Bucklers Hard website for current prices.
