Beaulieu
In the heart of the New Forest lies Beaulieu (pronounced Bewley), originally a medieval abbey with relics of its former gothic glory. However, it also boasts a superb classic car museum, a Victorian palace, a James Bond Exhibition, and extensive gardens. Truly a hit with all the family.
Beaulieu was founded in 1204 by King John for the Cistercian order and the church here still serves the local parish. Much of the original structure was destroyed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the reign of Henry VIII. The remaining buildings were sold to the aristocratic Montagu family in 1538, and the Gatehouse has been home to them ever since. The property was rebuilt in the 19th century but features an exhibition on its former monastic life.
But the main reason people come here is to visit the famous National Motor Museum started in 1952 by the 3rd Baron Montagu. Over 250 classic cars are on display here. Fans of the international hit motoring programme Top Gear will find a special exhibition devoted to the vehicles used in the show’s famous stunts. There is also a collection of vehicles used in the James Bond movies and a section devoted to the secret service in wartime.