In the heart of the glorious New Forest, Beaulieu is a magical place, combining the charm of an ancient Abbey, the grace of a classical stately home and the celebrated National Motor Museum which are all included in the excitement of a modern visitor attraction. Ride on the high level Monorail or climb aboard the replica 1912 open top London bus for a fun way to see Beaulieu’s sights.

The world-famous National Motor Museum has over 250 vintage, veteran and classic cars from some of the earliest examples of motoring to legendary World Record Breakers like Bluebird and Golden Arrow.  There are cars from every motoring era, ‘TV Star’ cars like Mr Bean’s Mini and Del Boy’s Reliant Regal and rare motoring oddities such as the giant orange on wheels. ‘Wheels’ is a pod ride that takes you on a fascinating voyage through 100 years of motoring and Jack Tucker’s Garage recreates the sights, sounds and smells of a 1930’s country garage.

The Museum’s latest exhibition, ‘Autoglym Art of Custom’, showcases the art of custom, taking cars and bikes on a creative journey from ordinary to extraordinary, to produce a one-off concept design. This striking and innovative display features vehicles from humble beginnings that you'll not easily recognise once transformed into these works of art, and include amongst others, a 1961 Volvo Amazon 'Rainbow Chaser', a 1980s 2CV 'Picasso's Citroen' and a 1990s Bentley Mulsanne 'Mentley Insanne'.

2008 is the centenary year, celebrating the birth of Bond creator, Ian Fleming. In the popular James Bond Exhibition, you can see several new exhibits including the Aston Martin Volante from 'The Living Daylights', and the Ford driven by Daniel Craig in his first incarnation as Bond in 'Casino Royale'. A selection of magnificent memorabilia includes Jaw's shirt from 'The Spy Who Loved Me' and Odd Job's bowler hat as seen in 'Goldfinger'.

Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538, was formerly the 14th century Great Gatehouse of Beaulieu Abbey and is set in glorious grounds and gardens overlooking the Beaulieu River. History comes alive with real Victorian characters and tales from the butler, cook and housemaids give a fascinating insight into the workings of a Victorian household, showing their life ‘Upstairs and Downstairs’.

The 13th century Abbey founded in 1204 by King John, was the largest Cistercian Abbey to be built in England. Much of it was destroyed on the orders of Henry Vlll at the time of the Reformation but two of the buildings, plus the Cloister have survived. A video presentation and exhibition tells the story of the Abbey and the daily life of its Cistercian monk founders.

The Secret Army Exhibition tells the story of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) which trained secret agents at the Beaulieu ‘Finishing School’ during World War ll.Some 3,000 agents were trained at a number of large country houses scattered across the Beaulieu Estate before being parachuted into occupied Europe to work with Resistance groups

If you want to get in the driving seat, put your foot down and take the chequered flag on the Go-Karts (seasonal). Budding young drivers can take to the road on Dipstick’s Driving Circuit in mini motorised vehicles while younger visitors can get physical on the Mini Motor Play Trail with its Veteran Bus climbing frame, swings and Little Tykes ride-on-cars.

There is also a packed calendar of special events for visitors to enjoy in 2008 including; BoatJumble on 27^th April, Motormart AutoJumble on 17^th and 18^th May, Motorcycle World on 5^th and 6^th July, International Autojumble on 13^th and 14^th September and the Fireworks Spectacular on 25^th October as well as Brum weekend on 31^st May and 1st June and the military vehicle show Trucks and Troops on 24^th to 26^th May.

Beaulieu, John Montagu Building, Beaulieu,  SO42 7ZN
24hr Info. 01590 612123    Tickets: 01590 612888
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Open Every Day (except Christmas Day) from 10am

Beaulieu is a little over two miles from its sister attraction of Buckler's Hard, the unique and picturesque village where warships for Nelson’s navy were built. Visit the historic cottage displays recreating 18th century life, take a delightful riverside walk or enjoy a cruise on the tranquil Beaulieu River. Gift shop and Captain’s Cabin Café. Open every day (except Christmas Day). Telephone 01590 616203 or visit www.beaulieu.co.uk/bucklershard