From wrecked Armada ships to the colourful forest folk that ran the eighteen century smuggling gangs. Burley villagers were major players in hiding and distributing contraband landed from Christchurch right along the coast line to the Beaulieu river. Visit Bucklers Hard near Beaulieu for a taster of the time of smuggling and the golden age of maritime trade. Call in at the Master Builders for lunch.
Quayside
Mudeford Quay. A favourite crabbing spot for children, take the short ferry ride over to the sandbank, a happy colony of multi coloured beach huts. Drop in to the Beach Café for lunch or a sun downer. Great beach walks, picnics on the dunes, super views to Isle of Wight from the top of Hengistbury Head. Windsurfing tuition from Ocean Sports on the Christchurch side of the spit. Boat trips from the quay.
Cakes with a view
Highcliffe Castle beach. Un spoilt tree lined beach, cliff top café in the Castle grounds serving excellent cakes. Take either the steps or staggered ramps down to the beach. Mainly shingle with sand at lower tide.
Messing about in boats
Keyhaven, a small fishing hamlet and nature reserve so bring the binoculars. An idyllic location to explore the coastal paths and to enjoy the panoramic Solent views. Small passenger ferries leave the little harbour in season for Hurst Castle and Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight. For bigger car ferries, drive the short distance to Lymington for the 30 minute crossing to the Isle of Wight. Take a stroll along the Solent way from Keyhaven round to Lymington Marina, lunch at the Haven, renowned seafood specials (subject to their boats catch!!) Great for tea time too.
Lots more to choose from, just give us a call 0845 680 0173
