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Lepe Country Park
Lepe
Beaulieu
Hampshire
SO45 1AD
About
Lepe Country Park has something for everyone. The long stretch of shingle beach is popular with kite surfers and wind surfers, families and holidaymakers. From the shoreline you can look across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. Watch yachts, ferries and cargo ships on their way to and from the harbours and marinas dotted along the south coast. The country park is ideal for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, families and dogwalkers. Come here to play in the adventure playground, fly kites on the cliff top, and explore the wild corners of the reserve.
Walking at Lepe Country Park - Lepe Loop and coastal walks
The Lepe Loop is a five-mile waymarked circular walk that covers coast and country. It takes about two hours at a leisurely pace. The terrain is rough in parts so walking boots and sensible outdoor clothing are recommended. Dogs are welcome in the country park, and although there’s no access to the family beach between April and September there is an alternative route along the coast.
Lepe Point Nature Rerserve
Lepe Point nature reserve is the perfect spot to enjoy coastal and river views. The meadows and woodlands are protected habitats for wildlife and well worth visiting. Head to the pond for dragonflies and damselflies, pop into the hide for a spot of birdwatching and traverse the boardwalk for all the other wildlife this wonderful location has to offer.
The history of Lepe
Lepe has played a fascinating role in our nation’s history. The site played a vital role in the D-Day landings, the cold war and was once a hot spot for smugglers. Visit the website for details of historical events, talks and trails.
Sensory Cottage Garden
Engage the senses in this special garden, built to delight through sight, sound and smell in a tranquil setting. Its features include a bug hotel, a pond and water feature, bog garden, a wildflower garden and a pergola for climbing plants. Different paths take visitors around, so they can enjoy the abundance of flowers like lavender, hydrangeas, azaleas and petunias.
Lepe's children's play areas
There are play areas for children of all ages, from a brightly coloured space for toddlers and small children to an adventure playground for older, more energetic children looking for large structures to climb on.
Events at Lepe Country Park
With its country/coast location, abundance of wildlife and rich history, it’s unsurprising that Lepe holds so many events. Natural trails, seashore safaris, talks about D-Day – there's always something of interest for all ages and interests.
Food and Drink at Lepe Country Park
A trip to Lepe isn’t complete without visiting The Lookout. Here is where you’ll find the restaurant and a kiosk, serving a variety of hot and cold foods and drinks. Treat yourself to The Lookout’s signature dish: Bowman beer battered fish with chips, peas and homemade tartare sauce – perfect after a day on the beach.
There are BBQ sites to hire too. The large BBQ is suitable for groups of up to 60 people and the small BBQ is ideal for parties of up to 12 people. The BBQs can be found near the cliff top car park, not far from the children’s play area.
Lepe Shop
A small shop based in The Lookout sells essential beach and souvenir items.
Lepe country Park is free to enter but car parking charges apply all year.
Opening Times
| Open (1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024) |
|---|
* October – April:
Car Parking is open from 7am until 7pm
Lookout is open from 9am until 4pm (hot food until 3pm)
April – October:
Car Parking is open from 7am until 10pm
Lookout is open from 9am until 5pm (hot food until 4pm)
Map & Directions
Video
- Hidden Histories: Lepe Country Park
