Palace House & Beaulieu Abbey
Beaulieu, one of the South of England’s top day visitor attractions, is set in the heart of the New Forest, the UK’s newest National Park. Beaulieu is a guaranteed great family day out with lots for everyone to enjoy including the world famous National Motor Museum, Palace House, home of the Montagu family, and historic Beaulieu Abbey. It is located within easy reach of the popular tourist destinations of Bournemouth, Southampton and Winchester.
Palace House:
Formerly the 13th century Great Gatehouse of Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House is set in glorious grounds and gardens with immaculate spreading lawns and walkways overlooking the Beaulieu River. This charming house, kept in the style of its later Victorian additions, has been in Lord Montagu's family ownership since 1538, when Sir Thomas Wriothesley, later 1st Earl of Southampton, bought the Estate after the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
The monastic origins of the House are evident and, once inside, visitors soon succumb to its friendly atmosphere as they view the many splendid and varied family treasures, portraits, photographs and memorabilia. Above all, Palace House remains a family home still lived in by the present Lord Montagu and his family and much loved by them.
Beaulieu Abbey:
Beaulieu Abbey was founded in 1204 by Cistercian monks on land given to them by King John. Although much was destroyed at the time of the Dissolution of the Monasteries during the reign of Henry VIII, there is still much for visitors to see today. Walk through the serene Cloisters and Herb Garden of this picturesque 13th century Abbey and view a film and an exhibition of the daily life of its Cistercian Monk founders.
Upstairs in the Abbey’s Domus, impressive Wall Hangings depict scenes from the history of the Abbey. Designed and created by Belinda, Lady Montagu using various forms of appliqué, patchwork, quilting, and both machine and hand embroidery on a heavy calico base.
Ghosts
Beaulieu is reputed to be one of Britain's most haunted places and ghosts have been seen, heard and sensed here for over a hundred years. Listen for the sounds of chanting and Brother Augustus's footsteps and smell the fragrance of incense when there is none burning.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
Admission Prices
The inclusive admission price covers entrance to the National Motor Museum, Palace House and Gardens, Beaulieu Abbey and World of Top Gear, plus various rides and drives throughout the year.
| Adults |
£17.00 |
| Senior |
£16.00 |
| Youth |
£10.00 |
| Child |
£8.75 |
| Family |
£46.50 |
| Children under 5 are free. |
Child prices apply to children aged 5 - 12 inclusive.
Youth prices apply to children aged 13 - 17 inclusive.
A family ticket covers one adult and up to four children / youths or two adults and up to three children / youths.
You can come back for FREE if you don’t have time to view everything - please ask at the Motor Museum information desk for your pass, free re-entry is non-transferable and valid for six days following the original visit, except on days of major or separately charged events. Only one free return per person permitted.
Opening times
The attraction is open every day of the year except Christmas Day as indicated below. The last admission each day is 30 minutes prior to closing time.
10.00am - 5.00 pm - 28th September to 28th May
10.00am - 6.00 pm - 29th May to 26th September
Travel directions
Beaulieu is situated in the south of England, in the New Forest between Bournemouth and Southampton, with easy access from London and the Home Counties.
By Road- M27 exit junction2, follow the brown and white tourist signs towards Beaulieu.
Sat nav postcode is SO42 7ZN, however please follow brown signage when in vicinity.
Public Transport
By Bus
Wilts & Dorset buses have a route between Hythe and Lymington which drops visitors in the Beaulieu grounds. For more>
New Forest Tour Bus
From 19th June to 12th September the New Forest Tour bus will be running through the New Forest and stopping off at Beaulieu daily. This hop on/off service gives a tour of the magnificent countryside and calls at lots of places of interest. Click here for details and timetable.
By Rail
The nearest main line station is Brockenhurst. There is a taxi rank at the station, the cost of a journey to Beaulieu by taxi costs approx £20. For more>
By Ferry
Take the ferry across Southampton Water to Hythe, then the 5 mile bus ride to Beaulieu.
Travel by train, ferry or bus for all or part of your journey to Beaulieu and we'll reward you with 20% off our standard admission.
Address:
Beaulieu Enterprises Ltd
John Montagu Building
Beaulieu
Brockenhurst
Hampshire
United Kingdom
SO42 7ZN