Buckler's Hard - The Visitor Experience
In the development of the visitor experience at Buckler's Hard, exactly the same principles apply as those outlined in connection with Beaulieu. We try to provide the same warm welcome to facilities designed and maintained to a high standard. The site is smaller, sensitive and attracts a lower number of visitors annually. Once again, five main elements are blended to create the visitor experience.
The Maritime Museum
Opened in 1963, the Buckler's Hard Maritime Museum tells the story of shipbuilding at Buckler's Hard and some of the important ships which were built there. It contains a fine collection of ship models and associated display items.
Historic Cottage Interiors
These interiors, created and installed in 1982, present to the visitor an impression of life in Buckler's Hard village at the end of the 18th century They comprise a reconstruction of the New Inn, a Labourer's Cottage, a Shipwright's Cottage, and the Workroom of Henry Adams, the Master Shipbuilder at that time.
Additional Attractions
Buckler's Hard Village is not an appropriate site for the installation of attractions similar to the Special Features at Beaulieu. The sole additional attraction at present is the "Swiftsure", a river cruiser that leaves the jetty at the bottom of the Village Street at regular intervals throughout the day during the summer season.
Grounds
The Village Street and its surroundings are attractive places for walking and relaxation. A pleasant Riverside Walk runs from the Village towards Beaulieu, and an extra mile of footpath has been added to create a circular route for visitors.
Catering
Catering is available at the Captain Cabin Cafe at the top of the Village Street, while the Master Builder's House Hotel offers a bar, buffet bar, and high quality restaurant for the benefit of guests and day visitors.
Shopping Opportunities
The shop located in the Captain Cabin Cafe stocks a variety of goods to serve both day visitors and local residents. During the main season, an additional Gift shop operates at the entrance to Museum.
In addition to the visitors arriving by road, Buckler's Hard enjoys visits from large numbers of yachtsmen visiting the Buckler's Hard Yacht Harbour or mooring on the River. Associated with the Yacht Harbour, just upstream from the Village are a boat repair facility, a chandlery and a club house.
Buckler's Hard Village is undergoing long-term conservation and restoration. The only source of the capital for this work is visitor income, and it will be many years before the programme is completed.