Stately homes often conjure up images of stuffy old buildings, busloads of old people, and bored kids being dragged from room to room by their parents. And there’s no doubt that we’ve all visited our fair share of those.
Campbell’s Blue Bird
Fortunately, though, the former Lord Montagu, ancestral owner of Beaulieu in England’s New Forest was a savvy man. While many stately mansions struggle to attract visitors, Lord Montagu, who passed away in 2015, helped Beaulieu become the ideal family day out, thanks in large part to his hobby. The avid car buff’s sizable collection is on display to the public at the site’s National Motor Museum, and what a collection it is. See more than 250 vehicles and bikes, from 19th century penny farthings to top of the range Formula One racers. Many are in working order, so you never know what you might come across being driven around the property grounds. Other vehicles in the collection include Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Sir Donald Campbell’s magnificent Bluebird, the vehicle that set a new World Land Speed Record in 1964.
Elsewhere in the grounds, The World of Top Gear takes you behind the scenes of Britain’s best-loved car show with a display of their more…eclectic… creations.
But remember, this is also a stately home so let’s leave the cars and talk about the house itself. Palace House has been home to the Montagu family since the 16th century. Still a family residence, the rooms open to the public offer a fascinating look into the history of the Montagus. If you’re lucky, you can also catch one of the daily musical performances by members of staff.
Once you’re done browsing the portraits, the formal gardens and the remains of Beaulieu Abbey provide opportunities for peaceful strolls and country picnics.
Finally, don’t forget to wander down to the village of Beaulieu where tourists, locals, and New Forest ponies all mingle.