Key Haven Marshes & Hurst Castle (12 miles/Moderate)
Details
Metropolitan Walkers is part of the Ramblers, Britain's walking charity. All welcome for 3 'taster' walks, after which please join the Ramblers - info on the Met Walkers website
This circular walk begins in Lymington and heads toward Hurst Castle, passing through the beautiful Lymington and Keyhaven Marshes Nature Reserve. The route offers excellent coastal views across to the Isle of Wight, along with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Upon reaching Keyhaven, we’ll wait for the ferry to Hurst Castle. The ferry costs £4 for a single trip or £7 return. Those who prefer not to take the ferry can walk along the shingle spit instead (an additional 2 miles), which we’ll all do on the return journey.
At Hurst Castle, Heritage Open Day events will be taking place, with free entry. While specific activities can't be guaranteed, stunning views of the Needles and the surrounding coastline are almost certain — weather permitting. The castle was built by King Henry VIII in the 1540s to defend the Solent and the important naval port of Southampton. Over time, it was expanded and used in various military roles, including during the Napoleonic Wars and both World Wars. We plan to spend around 1–1.5 hours at the castle, depending on our progress.
The return walk follows the scenic shingle spit back to Keyhaven, then continues through the marshes along a slightly more inland route, completing the loop back to Lymington.
Bringing a packed lunch is recommended, although there’s a small café near Hurst Castle. Pub stop at the end!
Travel: Take the 9:03 from London Waterloo (9:10 from Clapham Junction), change at Brockenhurst (arr. 10:38, dep. 10:54 on a Rail Replacement Bus), arr. Lymington Town 11:04. Buy a return to Lymington Town.
Grading: Moderate.
For an explanation of the gradings, please see the FAQ - please consider both the length and grade when choosing a walk.
Finish point: Lymington Town
More info: https://www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/group-walks/key-haven-marshes-hurst-castle
Key Haven Marshes & Hurst Castle (12 miles/Moderate)