Beaulieu National Motor Museum

The National Motor Museum is located in the village of Beaulieu in the heart of the New Forest. There’s so much more to it than their motor museum, though. The museum has over 250 cars, and it is one of the best museums we’ve ever visited. It’s put together really well, and there are many exhibits alongside their cars and other vehicles.

Things to do at Beaulieu National Motor Museum

It is laid out from the past to the future, and they have interactive exhibits which kids will love. You can even see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. It is like stepping back in time, especially in their recreated workshop and stepping on an old London bus. In ‘On Screen Cars’. Kids will love seeing Mr Bean’s mini along with other vintage cars from TV and cinema. ‘World of Top Gear’ is great fun with lots of different creations on display from past episodes. You are allowed to sit in most of them for selfies.

There is a Monorail which takes you from one end of the park to the other. Also included in your ticket is a visit to the Palace house. You can reach this by monorail, walking or taking one of their vintage bus rides. It has been in the Montagu family since 1538, and they are the ones who first set up the motor museum. There’s plenty to see, including a restored Victorian kitchen

Beaulieu has a fantastic outdoor play area that’s always a hit with families. It’s spacious, adventurous and designed for children to climb, slide, balance and explore in a safe, open environment. With wooden structures, bridges, towers and plenty of room to run around, it’s the perfect break between visiting the historic buildings, riding the monorail or exploring the gardens. The play zone blends beautifully into the natural surroundings and gives kids a chance to burn off energy while parents relax nearby. Other things to see include a Secret Army exhibition, Victoria flower and kitchen gardens, plus there’s a mill pond walk with fairies and statues.

The National Motor Museum Trust has announced plans to relocate in around five years, but Beaulieu will continue to offer a strong motoring experience. Many of the vehicles currently on display are owned by the Montagu family or held on long‑term loan, and these will remain on site. Beaulieu has confirmed it will continue running its own motor museum alongside all its existing attractions, including Palace House, Beaulieu Abbey, the monorail, the gardens and the wider grounds.

Important Information

Is there food and drink available?

There is an excellent coffee shop and restaurant on-site serving hot and cold food and drinks. You can picnic in the grounds.

What are the main things to do?

Motor museum with over 250 vehicles including interactive exhibits, adventure playground, Palace house, abbey, monorail, Top Gear exhibition, gardens and more.

What are the ticket prices?

Make sure you purchase your tickets online in advance, as you can make a good saving. Online, an adult is just under £28.35, and a child aged 4-16 is £16.65. Children under 4 are free.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.