The New Forest destination lauded for its picturesque palace, renowned motor museum and stunning river has been dubbed of one of the top UK villages for a winter getaway
A picturesque spot on the fringes of the New Forest has been crowned one of the top “prettiest villages for a cosy winter getaway”. Beaulieu, a “quintessential English village” in Hampshire, was bestowed this honour by National Rail, who described it as an “absolute gem”.
The village is lauded for its array of attractions, including a magnificent palace and motor museum, and a delightful river.
Beaulieu Palace is recognised as one of the UK’s ten ‘Treasure Houses’, marking it as an “architectural masterpiece” surrounded by “beautiful parklands and gardens”. The house, which has been the Montagu family residence since 1538, overlooks the Beaulieu River millpond. It’s hailed as a “fine example of a Victorian country house”, adorned with family heirlooms, portraits and memorabilia.
One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor: “Fabulous and interesting especially when decorated for Christmas. Plenty to see and do, very worthwhile visit.”, reports the Express.
Another enthused: “Really excellent house full of historical memorabilia and family links to the owners and their forbears. Everything well displayed and the staff on hand helped bring things to life.”
A third reviewer posted: “Beaulieu Palace is maintained in splendid condition, with well-informed and costumed staff to explain how the house operated in yesteryear and exhibits from the generations who lived there bringing each room to life.”
At Beaulieu, guests can purchase a single ticket granting entry to both the Palace and the National Motor Museum. The museum boasts “one of the finest collections of cars, motorcycles and motoring memorabilia in the world”.
Beaulieu National Motor Museum holds a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, with one visitor commenting: “What a glorious place! Absolutely brilliant collection of cars in lovely grounds. My children (10 year old car enthusiast and a 3 year old) were kept entertained all day.”
Close by, situated along the banks of the Beaulieu River, lies the 18th century shipbuilding settlement of Buckler’s Hard, renowned for constructing warships for Nelson’s Navy.
Guests can explore the museum which recounts the tales of the vessels and the village’s inhabitants, or stroll down the main street to observe boats sailing on the waterway.
There’s also a picturesque, two-mile walking trail to discover, and tourists can embark on a cruise along Beaulieu River. One holidaymaker remarked: “A smashing place overlooking the river. Plenty of quaint old cottages from its shipbuilding past to walk around. And we also had a delightful trip on the boat down the river.” Another described it as like “stepping back in time”.