Netley Abbey

Netley Abbey is a dramatic 13th-century ruin managed by English Heritage, set beside Southampton Water near Winchester. The roofless walls and stone arches have long drawn walkers, history fans and dog owners looking for a proper outdoor day out with a romantic edge. Dogs on leads are welcome to explore the site alongside you, though English Heritage asks visitors to keep to the clearly defined paths around the ruins.

The stonework is uneven and falling masonry a fact of life at a romantic ruin, so sticking to marked routes makes the visit safer and more relaxed for everyone. There's no climbing on the structure and that rule extends to four-legged companions too. Limited car parking is available on site; overflow parking is at Abbey Hall Recreation Ground, a five-minute walk away.

The ruins are open daily from 10am to 4pm, with free admission. It's a compact visit that pairs well with other Solent-side attractions and gives you a short, atmospheric walk without the logistics of a full-day expedition.