The Beaulieu is a wonderfully attractive, tidal river tucked away in the New Forest Park. This trail is for the more experienced paddler. This is a tidal trail. Check tide times before you set out. The harbour master will provide you with a map and tide table when you pay your launch fee.
The Beaulieu is a tidal river and, along with the Solent, has the advantage of a double high tide. This corresponds to the ebb being quicker than it may otherwise have been, especially at springs. The section above Bailey’s Hard is not a nice paddle at low tides and may become impassable at the top end of the river.
The Beaulieu River has several areas that are designated SSSI. Please do not land unless you are sure of authorised access.
There are many boats and jetties on the river. Care should be taken to avoid these, and also the river is used by fishermen. Please avoid their lines. When on springs, the tide can drop very quickly and can either carry you further than you want or trap you against obstacles.
Beaulieu River is unusual in that it is one of very few private rivers in the world, with the ownership having been given to the Monks of Beaulieu Abbey back in the mists of time. The rights have now passed to the Montagu family, and their stewardship has ensured that its development has been largely controlled, keeping this a haven.
Buckler’s Hard has been essential to boat production for hundreds of years. The Master Shipbuilder, Henry Adams, and his sons built ships such as Agamemnon, Euryalus, and Swiftsure, all of which fought at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
Liquid Logistics run canoe and kayak courses and trips from here. On the opposite side of the river are Exbury Gardens.
