C
2008, www.the-new-forest-national-park.co.uk
Home
About the Forest
New Forest Wildlife
Camping & Caravanning
Visitor Centres
Home   ~   About the Forest   ~   New Forest Wildlife   ~   Camping & Caravanning   ~   New Forest Visitor Centres   ~   Places of Interest  ~  Links
Places of Interest
Liberty's Raptor & Reptile Centre
Rockbourne Roman Villa
Highcliffe Castle
Highcliffe Castle, located on Rothesay Drive, Highcliffe, just off the A337 heading towards Lyminton from Christchurch in Dorset, is a beautiful Grade l listed building that was built by Lord Stuart de Rothesay between 1831 and 1835 (follow the brown road signs). The castle is open daily from 1st February till 23rd December, 11am till 5pm and is definately worth a visit. The picturesque gardens and grounds, the stunning architecture and the castles history all adds to its charm. See the amazing stained-glass window and the restored areas of the castle, which are open to the public. Also available on-site is a small car park, tearooms, gift shop, toilets and the cliff-top walk with wonderful views of Christchurch Bay and the Isle of Wight.
Rockbourne's Roman Villa history spans the period from the Iron age to the 5th century and is the largest known villa in the area. Take the A338 to Fordingbridge and from the high street follow the signs through to Sandleheath (then follow the brown road signs to the Roman Villa). Visitors can walk around the Villa remains and the museum which houses many objects found on-site and shows what life was like in the Villa 1600 years ago. The site includes bath houses, farm buildings, living quarters and beautiful mosaics. The Villa was discovered by a farmer in 1942. Open April to October between 10.30am and 6pm.
The Liberty's Raptor and Reptile Centre houses a large collection of Birds of Prey and various reptiles, located at Crow Lane near Ringwood (just off the A31). Follow the brown road signs on the B3347, Ringwood to Christchurch road, turn into Moortown Road and then into Crow Lane. The Centre, named after its American Bald Eagle (Liberty), has indoor and outdoor flying areas, a reptile house, a cafe, gift shop and a large car park. Bird, Reptile and flying displays are held throughout the day. Open daily from March to October between 10am and 5pm. Open weekends only from November to February between 10am and 4pm (closed Christmas and New Year).