Events

Saturday 13th – Sunday 14th June:
The Buckler’s Hard Wartime Weekend

Step back in time this June as the historic riverside village of Buckler’s Hard hosts a free wartime heritage weekend commemorating the extraordinary role the Beaulieu River and surrounding New Forest played during the Second World War.

Across Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June, visitors will be able to explore a programme of talks, an exhibition, military vehicles, and a display, all set within one of the most atmospheric wartime locations on the south coast. From the quiet waters of the Beaulieu River came secret preparations for D-Day, naval operations, covert training and military innovation that helped shape the course of the war.

Discover the remarkable story of how the entire Beaulieu River was requisitioned by the Royal Navy during the conflict, transforming this peaceful corner of the New Forest into a hive of military activity. Learn about the Special Operations Executive’s nearby training school, the local airfields that filled the skies overhead, and the men and women from the area who served on land, at sea and in the air.

Visitors will also have the rare opportunity to step aboard HMS Medusa, a surviving World War II Harbour Defence Motor Launch which will be moored on the river for the weekend. Alongside this will be guest speaker talks, exhibitor stands, wartime displays, military vehicles and demonstrations from the Portsmouth Model Boat Display Team..

The event will also mark the launch of a brand-new exhibition exploring the wartime history of the Beaulieu River, bringing together stories, photographs, artefacts and research that reveal just how important this area became during Britain’s fight for survival.

Whether you are passionate about military history, interested in the New Forest’s hidden wartime past, or simply looking for a fascinating free day out in a beautiful setting, Buckler’s Hard Wartime Weekend promises something for all ages.

The event takes place from 10am to 5pm on both days and admission is completely free (car parking charges apply).

Full details of speakers, exhibitors, vehicles and attractions will be announced over the coming weeks. Please save the date and help spread the word.

Saturday 20th June:
Traditional Ship and Boatbuilding Craft Day

See real traditional wooden ship and boatbuilding crafts demonstrated in the historic 18thc shipbuilding village of Buckler’s Hard. Historic sailmaker, rope craft, blacksmith, shipwrights, sawyers, tool specialists and more. Come and learn how to make a ‘treenail’ or use a Ships Capstan, how ships were built and the materials used.

10am – 5pm. FREE event.

Event kindly Sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights