#Landmark
HMS Mastodon, Exbury Gardens
HMS Mastodon was a naval land base that was used extensively during the build-up to D-Day in 1944. Hidden away in a secluded estate on the banks of the Beaulieu River, New Forest
HMS Mastodon as it was known during the Second World War was located within the Exbury Estate. The estate is accessible to members of the public but is subject to an entrance fee. The grounds around Exbury House offer numerous walking trails that also lead to the banks of the Beaulieu River. The grounds are a wealth of trees and plant life that would have been present during the wartime use of the estate.
The estate was owned by the Rothschild family.
In May 1942, the house and estate was requisitoned by the Ministry of Defence and became a naval facility. It is here that plans were formed around Operation Neptune, the naval aspect of D-Day set for June in 1944.
HMS Mastodon was one cog in the wheel of several facilities linked into the planning. It was designated as the head Quarters for Landing Craft.
As you follow the walking trails towards the Beaulieu River you will eventually come to the Arromanches Plaque and the LST & Landing Craft memorials that are placed on the riverbanks.