Bucklers Hard
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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 where ships for Nelson's fleet at Trafalgar were built.
Today, the village continues to thrive, unspoilt by the passage of time.
As you stroll along the new 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. Historic displays in the Labourer's and Shipwright's cottages show how the village would have looked in the early 1800s and the New Inn, you can hear residents from the time gossiping about local matters.
A new exhibition tells the remarkable story of the P&O liner, SS Persia and its links with Rolls Royce and the Montagu family. In December 1915, the ship was torpedoed by a German U-Boat in the Mediterranean. On board were Lord John Montagu and his personal assistant Eleanor Thornton, the model for the iconic Rolls Royce mascot, the Spirit of Ecstasy. John Montagu survived but Eleanor perished.
Following the world's deepest salvage operation of its type, several of the ship's artefacts, entombed since its sinking nearly one hundred years ago, will be on display for the first time. Included in the exhibition are items from the passengers' personal belongings such as clothing, shoes, pipes and pens. Also, a number of the ship's effects from the Dining area and Mail Room, including many Christmas gifts on their way to India. Visitors will also see the door to the Bullion Room which the salvage team had hoped would reveal the fortune in gold and jewels which, it was believed, was on board at the time the ship sank.
In its more recent history Buckler's Hard and the Beaulieu River played an important role during WWll. Sections of the 'Mulberry Harbour' were made here and hundreds of craft sailed from the Beaulieu River in the D-Day landings. A film presentation tells the story of Buckler's Hard at war.
Stroll along the pathways beside the Beaulieu River, or join the River Cruise, operating between Easter and October, which transports you on a tranquil journey along the River, revealing the abundant wildlife that inhabits its riverbanks.
Buckler's Hard is a place for relaxation as well as exploration. Refreshments are to hand at the Captain's Cabin Tea Rooms and The Master Builder's House Hotel, overlooking the River.
Current admission charges to Buckler's Hard are: Adult £5.90, Concessions £5.50, Children (5-17) £4.30 and a Family Ticket for 2 Adults + 3 Children or 1 Adult + 4 Children is £17.50.
River Cruise: Adult £4, Concessions £3.50, Children (5-17) £2.50 and a Family Ticket (2 Adults + 2 Children) £12.
A new annual pass for just £10 per person, entitles you to unlimited free visits to the village, as well as 10% gift purchases from the Maritime Museum shop.
Visit http://www.bucklershard.co.uk/for more information.
