Royal Victoria Country Park

About

Important Information: Royal Victoria Country Park car park is open  – normal hours and parking fees apply. Toilets are accessible too. Visitors should continue to follow the social distancing guidelines. The Cafe is serving takeaway only. For more information please see Royal Victoria Country Park's website.

Rich in history, with a small beach and miles of open fields, Royal Victoria Country Park is a hidden gem on the South Coast.

Walking
The park is very flat and has a network of pathways, which makes it ideal for pushchairs and wheelchairs. The open fields are perfect for picnics and ball games in the summer. The beach offers an alternative walking experience and is as popular in the colder months as it is in summer.

History
What is now an idyllic country park was once the scene of a bustling military hospital. As the British Army’s first purpose-built hospital, Royal Victoria was a unique and ambitious project that changed the face of the medical world. All that remains of the hospital is the Chapel. There is a permanent exhibition in the Chapel and visitors can take tours of its tower, which offers splendid views for miles around. The Chapel can also be hired for special occasions, such as weddings. Further into the park is a cemetery with hundreds of commonwealth war graves, mostly from the First World War.

Play Area and Railway
The play area can be found near the café and has several fully accessible pieces of equipment. This includes special seating for wheelchair users on the zip wire. A miniature railway operates out of the park and runs along a 1-mile scenic route.

Sensory Garden and Pond
Engage the senses in the sensory garden, built to delight through sight, sound and smell in a tranquil setting. Sophie’s Pond can be found near the entrance to the park, where you can sit quietly and watch the many ducks.

Events
The park offers a year-round calendar of events, which includes music, theatre, nature trails, history talks, children’s entertainment and festivals.

Food and Drink
In the café you will find a range of delicious cakes, lunches and snacks, as well as hot and cold drinks. There are picnic tables outside where dogs are welcome with their owners. BBQs with space for between 20 and 100 people are available for hire. A kiosk and an ice cream van provide treats, snacks and drinks.

Shop
The shop is where you can buy gifts, games and toys and dog treats. This is also where you can purchase event tickets and find out more information about the park.

Royal Victoria Country Park is free to enter but car parking fees apply.