Top 7 Castles around New Forest

The New Forest area offers a rich tapestry of historical sites, from ancient fortifications to medieval abbeys and Victorian mansions. You can explore Tudor artillery forts like Hurst Castle and Calshot Castle, the Gothic Revival architecture of Highcliffe Castle, or the serene ruins of Beaulieu Abbey. The region also features sites like Richmond Market Town and Castle, Bowes Castle Ruins, and Egglestone Abbey Ruins, each offering a unique glimpse into centuries of history.

Yes, several castles in and around the New Forest boast stunning coastal views. Hurst Castle, an artillery fortress built by Henry VIII, offers spectacular panoramic views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight, including the iconic Needles, from its Tudor Keep. Highcliffe Castle is magnificently situated on a clifftop with direct beach access and superb views across to the Isle of Wight. Calshot Castle also guards the mouth of Southampton Water, providing coastal perspectives.

Many historical sites around the New Forest are family-friendly. Richmond Market Town and Castle, Bowes Castle Ruins, and Egglestone Abbey Ruins are all noted as family-friendly in the komoot community. Hurst Castle offers an adventurous ferry ride and plenty of space to explore its military history, while Highcliffe Castle has beautiful gardens and beach access. Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House also provide a comprehensive historical experience that can engage various age groups.

The New Forest region is ideal for outdoor activities. Near many of these historical sites, you can find excellent opportunities for cycling, running, and mountain biking. For example, you can explore various road cycling routes, running trails, or MTB trails. Many castles, like Hurst Castle, are accessible via scenic walks, such as the two-mile walk along the shingle Hurst Spit.

Yes, there are options for free entry. Bowes Castle Ruins, an English Heritage-owned site, is free to enter and can be visited during daylight hours. Similarly, Egglestone Abbey Ruins, also managed by English Heritage, offers free entry between 10 am and 6 pm.

Hurst Castle is uniquely situated at the end of a shingle spit. It is accessible either by a leisurely ferry ride from Keyhaven or by a two-mile walk along the shingle Hurst Spit. This makes the journey to the castle an adventure in itself, offering scenic views along the way.

Highcliffe Castle stands out for its unique architecture. It is a magnificent Grade I listed mansion built in the Romantic and Picturesque style, incorporating large quantities of carved medieval stonework salvaged from ruined Benedictine abbeys in Normandy, France. This gives it a distinctive, older appearance than its actual age. Hurst Castle also retains much of its 16th-century Tudor fort appearance, later strengthened with 19th and 20th-century additions.

The castles around the New Forest are steeped in history. Hurst Castle famously served as a prison for Charles I in 1648 before his execution and played significant roles in both World Wars. Calshot Castle, another Tudor fort, has been utilized through various wars up to World War II. Beaulieu Abbey was founded by King John in the 13th century and later largely ruined during the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII.

Absolutely. Beaulieu Abbey & Palace House is a significant historical estate. While not a traditional castle, it originated as a Cistercian Abbey founded by King John. Visitors can explore the preserved foundations of the Abbey Church, a tranquil cloister, and the Beaulieu Palace House, which was converted from the abbey's inner gatehouse. It offers a deep medieval religious history and a unique architectural transformation.

Visitors appreciate the blend of rich history and natural beauty. Many enjoy the opportunity to explore ancient ruins and fortifications, imagining themselves back in time. The picturesque settings, such as the clifftop location of Highcliffe Castle or the spot above the River Tees for Egglestone Abbey Ruins, are frequently highlighted. The komoot community has shared over 13 photos and given more than 45 upvotes, indicating a strong appreciation for these historical and scenic locations.

Yes, both Hurst Castle and Calshot Castle are prime examples of coastal defense. Hurst Castle, built by Henry VIII, was strategically placed to guard the entrance to the Solent, and its exhibitions detail its extensive military history through various wars. Calshot Castle, completed in 1540, also served to guard the mouth of Southampton Water and now houses a museum showcasing its combat role up to World War II.

Yes, amenities like cafes and pubs are available near some of these locations. Richmond Market Town and Castle is situated in a town with plenty of cafes and shops. While specific details for every castle's immediate vicinity are not always available, towns and villages like Beaulieu, Highcliffe, Keyhaven, and Milford-on-Sea, which are close to these sites, offer various amenities for visitors.