Sunday 19th October 2025 09.30am at Keyhaven
Following visits last season to Lepe and the Coast Guard JRCC, without boats involved, we have arranged an early Autumn visit to Hurst Castle. In contrast, this one does involve a boat ride, the ferry from Keyhaven and return!
Completed in 1544, Hurst Castle has a wealth of history including smuggling, imprisoning King Charles 1 and later for those spreading the Catholic Faith. It was also of great strategic importance during the wars with France in 1792 and of course the later two world wars.
The Castle has undergone considerable change over the centuries with upkeep always a challenge. It was just a few years ago that part of the Castle exterior crumbled and the subsequent shoring up changed the shoreline creating a new Island.
The day starts at 9.30am at Keyhaven car park, ready to leave on the 10.00am ferry (£8ph return).
We will then be met at Hurst by our guide for a personal tour of the Castle. There is a café on site for the basics and a limited supply of baguettes so you may wish to bring your own packed lunch.
There will be a charge for admission of £8.50 less discount, but free for English Heritage members. The tour cost will be covered by NYC.
In preparation you can view the website at: https://www.hurstcastle.co.uk
Members to make own travel arrangements. Please note car parking up to £7 all day.
Email speakers@newburyyachtclub.com by Wednesday 1st October latest to confirm your place(s).