Calshot Castle
A circular Henry VIII-era fort guarding the entrance to Southampton Water, whose interior recreates the Royal Air Force base from around the First World War.
Calshot Castle was built in 1539–1540 as a circular artillery fort by Henry VIII to defend against invasions by France and the Holy Roman Empire. It sits at the end of Calshot Spit, which extends into Southampton Water. In the early 20th century it became a Royal Naval Air Station, and the Schneider Trophy seaplane races were held here in 1929 and 1931. The castle's interior recreates the barracks of that era. It is opened in summer by the local council, admission is cheap, and nearby there are beach huts and a water sports centre.
Opening hours
Summer weekends & holidays 10:00–16:00
Nearby sights
- Lepe Country Park
- Exbury Gardens
- Buckler's Hard
- Beaulieu (National Motor Museum, Palace House & Abbey)
- Hatchet Pond
- New Forest Wildlife Park
- Lymington
- Brockenhurst