Top activities to do around Calshot

Are you planning a camping trip at Calshot and are looking to explore the local area? Calshot is a prime location on the shores of the Solent, with beautiful beaches, views of the Isle of Wight and instant access to the water. The campsite at Calshot provides a great base to enjoy a range of activities whatever the weather during your stay, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you fancy testing your climbing skills reaching new heights, or race round the track on the velodrome, there’s truly something for everyone!

Plan an action-packed holiday full of adventure and explore the local area. We’ve come up with a list of our favourite activities in and around our centre. By foot or by car, there’s so much around Calshot to explore and enjoy.

The local area

Brockenhurst – 25 minute drive

Brockenhurst is a small village in the New Forest just a short drive from Calshot. Full of quaint cafes and pubs, it's an idyllic place to wonder round and tuck into some lunch after a morning of activities at Calshot. Brockenhurst is home to donkeys, deer, wild ponies and cows, an abundance of wildlife to spot. Head out for a bike ride across the picturesque forest - the views are unmissable.

Lyndhurst – 22 minute drive

Lyndhurst is at the heart of the New Forest, a beautiful little town full of history. Visit the gothic parish church of St Michael and All Angels or have a wander through the independent shops selling hand-crafted gifts. Wind down after your morning of activities at Calshot and enjoy a walk around Lyndhurst, a circular route with stunning views across the forest.

Walking routes

Beaulieu River

Take a stroll along Beaulieu River. This picturesque walking path will take you alongside woodland, grassland and saltmarsh. This peaceful river is full of wildlife, perfect for bird spotting and exploring different plant species. If you’re up for an adventure, it’s roughly a 2 hour walk from Calshot or a short 15 minute drive.

Lepe Country Park

Lepe Country Park is situated on the edge of the New Forest, hours walk along the England Coast Path from Calshot, or a 10 minute drive. This beautiful country park has superb views of the Solent and Isle of Wight, especially from The Lookout café serving delicious, locally sourced snacks and drinks. The Lepe Loop is a 5 mile coast and countryside circular walk around Lepe and Exbury, or enjoy a nature trail full of activities for little ones.

See Calshot's beach, walks and trails page for more ideas.

Local attractions

National Motor Museum, Beaulieu

If you have a need for speed, pay a visit to the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu. Take a step back in time and see the earliest motor carriages, motorbikes and legendary F1 cars. Explore motoring memorabilia from all around the world. A short 15 minute drive from Calshot, the perfect place to add to your itinerary on a rainy day.

Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway

Stop for a breather after an action-packed day of adventures at Calshot and visit the tranquil Exbury Gardens. These delightful gardens are full of colour, from contemporary blooms to a wildflower garden, there’s something new to see every season. Hop on the steam railway departing from Exbury Central around the Dragonfly Pond and through the Summer Lane Garden. Sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Historical sites

Calshot Castle

Climb to the top of Calshot Castle for vast views of the Solent and across to the Isle of Wight. The castle was built by Henry VIII as an artillery fort in 1539, as part of his chain of defences along the English south coast. Explore the display on Calshot during WWII and its link to the Sunderland Flying Boat. Situated directly next to the activity centre, this is a perfect destination to explore after a few activities.

Palace House, Beaulieu

While strolling along Beaulieu River why not pay a visit to Palace House, a charming Victorian country house remodelled in the 1800s. This heritage site is full of character and treasures, from exquisite artwork to antique furniture, its definitely worth exploring. Keep an eye out for exhibitions at the house and a fully restored Victorian kitchen.

The Calshot campsite is the perfect location for a short stay for caravans, motorhomes and tents, with all the facilities you need. You can even enjoy a warming cup of coffee or a wholesome meal at the Calshot Café. In order to stay on the campsite at Calshot, you must purchase an annual Calshot Camping Access Pass. Once you have purchased your annual pass you will be able to make a pitch booking. Visit our camping page to find out more. Or if you’re looking for cosy group accommodation, why not look at Keymer House - the perfect location for a group of up to 17 people, this self-catered option is a great base for a holiday.