Hurst Spit is a shingle bank that juts into the Solent, linking Keyhaven and Hurst Castle. It has beautiful views out towards the Isle of Wight and along the Hampshire coast.
Hurst Spit Walking to Hurst Castle It is not the easiest of walks. Sturdy footwear is recommended and it is hard going with a buggy. Sailing to Hurst Castle Hurst Castle Hurst Spit separates the sea and the Lymington River Estuary.
To one side it has mudflats and salt marshes.
To the other it has the sea and views to the Isle of Wight and the Needles.
Swimming or using inflatables in the sea here is not recommended as the currents are very strong.
The walk to the castle is about two miles and is part of the Solent Way.
You can pick up the path to Hurst Spit and Hurst Castle from Keyhaven Car Park – just head for the Hurst Castle Ferry and then keep walking.
If you would like to visit Hurst Castle but don’t fancy the walk or have little ones with you, then consider the Hurst Castle ferry.
It is a beautiful 20 minute ferry ride through salt marshes, mud flats and moored boats.
Hurst Castle is an artillery fort that was built in the 16th century by Henry VIII to protect the Solent, Southampton and Portsmouth.
It is one of the best preserved of Henry VIII’s castles and had an active military role until the mid-20th century.
Visit the Hurst Castle website
Further Information
Nearest Town: Lymington, New Forest Opens: Daily Adult Cost Range: Hurst Spit is free but there are various costs for castle entry – please see the websites for details. Where to Eat: Eat at the Hurst Castle cafe or bring a picnic. How Long We Spent There: 4 hours Parking: Pay and display car park at Keyhaven. Wildlife You Might See: Fish, crabs, seabirds and sea creatures. Information Written: January 2023
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: SO41 0TP takes you to Keyhaven Car Park and if you keep driving, Hurst Spit.
Child Cost Range: Hurst Spit is free but there are various costs for castle entry – please see the websites for details.
Free if: Hurst Spit is free. Children under 5 years enter the castle for free.
Facilities: There are toilets and accessible toilets inside Hurt Castle. There are no toilets available for people not visiting the castle. There is a cafe outside the castle that is available to all visitors.
Buggies: Not buggy friendly.
Cost of Parking: From £3 for two hours.
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Before taking part in any activities or visiting any places listed, you should make appropriate checks to ensure high quality provision, a safe environment is provided and to check all these details are up to date before you visit and/or take part. We accept no liability (to the fullest extent permitted by law) for the quality of the activities provided or places listed or for the accuracy of any information given.
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