Hurst Castle

Hurst Castle sits at the tip of a long shingle spit at Milford on Sea, looking across to the Isle of Wight. Park at Hurst Road East Car Park and walk out along the pebbles – roughly 40 minutes each way at a steady pace. The shingle is hard going for paws, so factor that in and bring plenty of water.

The castle itself was begun in the 1540s under Henry VIII as a coastal defence and substantially modernised by the Victorians. English Heritage looks after it and dogs are welcome on leads throughout. Water bowls are available by the ticket office, guard room and cafe.

An alternative for shorter legs is the seasonal ferry from Keyhaven, which also takes dogs.

Make a day of it

Places within 10 miles you can pair with this one for a longer day out.

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The Lighthouse

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Sea-front bar and restaurant at the foot of Hurst Spit. Dog-friendly outdoor seating with views over the Solent.

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The Pig

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Hollands Wood Campsite

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