THE SOLENT Is a stretch of water approximately 30 miles long and 5 miles wide. It is the channel of water between the Hampshire coast and the Isle of Wight. and ships entering Southampton docks do so through this channel of water. The Solent is famous as a centre of yacht racing and Cowes week is one of the largest sporting events held during the summer in England. Link - http://www.solentwaters.co.uk Link - http://www.soton.ac.uk/~imw/ship.htm Link - http://www.solentforum.hants.org.uk/solentmaps/solent_maps.htm THE NEEDLES A natural landmark at the westernmost point of the Isle of Wight and below are the famous cliffs of coloured sands of Alum Bay. Link - http://www.theneedles.co.uk Link - http://www.theneedlesbattery.org.uk Link - http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-theneedlesoldbattery NEW FOREST An area of outstanding natural beauty created by William the Conqueror in 1079. Ponies, cattle, pigs and donkeys belonging to the `Commoners' graze in the open forest land. There are many designated car parks, where footpaths and bridlepaths will take you to the heart of the forest through beautiful woodland scenery. Link - http://www.thenewforest.co.uk Link - http://www.newforest.hampshire.org.uk Link - http://www.newforestnpa.gov.uk STRATFIELD SAYE The house at Stratfield Saye was constructed around 1630 and was purchased by the 1st Duke of Wellington. Much of the house is dedicated to events at Waterloo and the Peninsular War. Link - http://www.stratfield-saye.co.uk Link - http://www3.hants.gov.uk/localpages/north-east/hook/stratfield-turgis.htm BUCKLERS HARD Is an 18th century village built on the banks of the Beaulieu River in the centre of the New Forest. Warships ships, including Nelson's H.M.S. Agamemnon were built there. A short drive away is the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey. Link - http://www.bucklershard.co.uk/