Beaulieu National Motor Museum

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Suzy McCullough

Things to do at 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.

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 Beans’ 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 Victoria kitchen

Coming in Spring 2020 – Little Beaulieu. There will be a magical wooden palace which will be a fantasy play area filled with fun features to try and secret passageways to discover. Plus a climbing wall, rope maze room, wooden cars, zip wire and more. I think this will replace the current play area. Beaulieu Abbey can be explored near the house. It is mostly a ruin but there’s plenty to look around. 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.

Important Information Beaulieu National Motor Museum

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 coming in Spring 2020, 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 £20 and a child 5-16 is just under £10. Children under 5 are free.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.

Is there parking?

There is free parking.

When are they open?

Beaulieu is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day. For up-to-date opening times and dates please follow this link.

Dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas on a lead. They are not permitted indoors.

Are they accessible?

Information on accessibility Beaulieu is committed to providing the best possible access for every visitor