If you’re spending your holiday in Bournemouth, you’re never going to be short of things to do. Some are close by, while others are special enough to be worth a little more of a journey.
One of the most fascinating destinations is the village and marina of Buckler’s Hard, which played a central part in the growth of the Royal Navy. Like all destinations around the area, Buckler’s Hard can be easily reached from the Bournemouth family hotel Marsham Court.
What Is Buckler’s Hard?
Buckler’s Hard was created in the early 18th century by the Second Duke of Montagu and was briefly known as Montagu Town. He intended it to be a free port for trading with the Caribbean, but instead, it became a centre for shipbuilding. Timber was easily available from the New Forest, while the gravel banks supported slipways.
By the middle of the century, shipbuilding was well underway. Over a sixty-year period, no fewer than 43 Royal Naval ships were built at Buckler’s Hard, including three that fought at Trafalgar. This began to tail off during the 19th century, though Buckler’s Hard retained its links to the navy. During World War Two, it provided the base for hundreds of landing craft for the Normandy Landings.
The village is now mainly focused on tourism, with a museum dedicated to Buckler’s Hard’s history of shipbuilding, as well as having a thriving marina for yachts.
What Can You Do at Buckler’s Hard?
There’s plenty for all the family at Buckler’s Hard. The museum not only follows the history of the ships built there, including the connection with Nelson, but also the history of the people who built them. You’ll find displays of historic cottages, as well as the story of the village through the 19th and 20th centuries.
The picturesque village includes access to the Shipwright’s Cottage, and there’s also a replica of an 18th-century shipwright’s workshop. Or you could take a break with a cruise along the picturesque Beaulieu River.
The kids won’t get bored, either. They can learn nautical skills like tying a bowline or caulking a seam or explore Buckler’s Hard on a quiz trail. And, when you need a break, there are two venues offering meals, snacks, and drinks — or you could bring your own picnic.
Visiting Buckler’s Hard from Marsham Court Hotel
Visiting Buckler’s Hard is a great day out, but there’s plenty for the rest of your holiday in the Bournemouth, Poole, and Christchurch area. Marsham Court Hotel, a friendly 4-star Bournemouth family hotel, is placed perfectly to reach all of them — including Buckler’s Hard. You can get there in around three-quarters of an hour on the main roads or follow the picturesque route nearer the coast.
Marsham Court is perfect for all the family, including any with accessibility needs, who can use our award-winning accessible facilities. And, if your family isn’t all two-legged, we’re a dog-friendly hotel, providing services specially for well-behaved dogs.
Get in touch with us to find out more about how you can enjoy a visit to Buckler’s Hard — and much more — at Marsham Court Hotel.
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