Beaulieu Motor Museum

1981 Ford Escort, World Rally winner

Not far from the rather charming town of Lyndhurst lies Beaulieu and the National Motor Museum situated in the New Forest, Hampshire.
The Forest is a rather unique and beautiful place to walk, cycle and, (if your that way inclined) to camp. There's something rather picturesque about seeing horses roam free that gives this National Park a sense of escapism, despite not being far from London or Southampton.
The Motor Museum itself lies in the Beaulieu estate, home of the Montagu family since 1538. Lord Montagu was a lover of cars as well as a British motoring pioneer and it's from him that the collection began. There's plenty of veteran vehicles from the early days of this collection including a De Dion Bouton and a Rolls Royce Silver Ghost. It's important to point out that the Motor Museum is only one feature when visiting Beaulieu - the Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey and Gardens are the other main attractions when visiting the estate.

Ferrari Dino

The National Motor Museum features not only a selection of the aforementioned veteran and vintage vehicles such as the Ford Model T but also more modern cars from the 60's and 70's including the Mini and Triumph Herald. There are also cars from racing including F1 and rally cars along with a number of land speed record vehicles, one of which is the Bluebird. I'm not - but if your a fan of motorbikes then Beaulieu will be up your street as there is quite a collection.
Work was recently completed on a new mezzanine floor which will mean that the museum will be able to hold more cars for future visitors to enjoy. Along with a fantastic library and archive facility (great if you are planning on doing any research), the National Motor Museum is a must if you are a car lover. Of course, there's also the bonus of those lovely surroundings...

Rolls Royce Silver Cloud