Beaulieu Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and accommodation in Beaulieu, a charming village in Hampshire, England with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Beaulieu

Nestled in the heart of the New Forest, Beaulieu is a charming village in Hampshire, England. The name “Beaulieu” means “beautiful place” in French, and this picturesque village certainly lives up to its name. Beaulieu is rich in history and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking for a unique and memorable experience.

This travel guide will provide a comprehensive list of things to see and do in Beaulieu, including attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking and biking routes, food and drink, accommodations, and cultural customs.

List of Places to Visit in Beaulieu

Beaulieu boasts a range of attractions for travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top places to visit in the village.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Beaulieu is home to several museums and historical sites that highlight the village’s rich past.

  • Beaulieu Abbey: Founded in the thirteenth century, this magnificent abbey ruins feature stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Palace House: Built in the late 19th century, this stunning house is still inhabited today and is open to visitors. It’s filled with family portraits, treasures, and art, and set in beautiful gardens.
  • National Motor Museum: This museum is one of the most popular automotive museums in the world, featuring over 250 vehicles from different eras, including motorcycles.

Natural Attractions of Beaulieu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Beaulieu is located in the heart of the New Forest, which offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views.

  • The New Forest: This national park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including free-roaming ponies, deer, and birds. Visitors can explore its many trails and picnic spots.
  • Beaulieu River: Enjoy an idyllic boat ride down the tranquil Beaulieu River and soak in the beautiful views of the river banks and wildlife.
  • Buckler’s Hard: Take a stroll down this historic maritime village, which dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can learn about the village’s shipbuilding past, and explore the Maritime Museum.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beaulieu

Beaulieu offers plenty of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.

  • The Solent Way: This long-distance coastal path is ideal for hikers and cyclists alike, offering stunning views of the Solent and Isle of Wight.
  • The New Forest Loop: This 100-mile loop is perfect for cyclists and takes you through the heart of the New Forest, with ample opportunity to stop off at pretty villages along the way.
  • Beaulieu Heath Walk: This walk offers stunning views of the New Forest heathland and its ancient oaks, and can be enjoyed on horseback, by bicycle, or on foot.

Best Things to Do in Beaulieu: Activities and Tours

Beaulieu offers a range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Beaulieu.

  • Paultons Park: This family-friendly amusement park is home to over 70 rides, including Peppa Pig World, for the little ones.
  • Horse Riding: Take a ride through the beautiful New Forest on horseback and enjoy the fresh air and stunning surroundings.
  • Segway Tour: Experience the New Forest in a unique way, by gliding on a Segway through the woodland.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beaulieu

To maximize your time in Beaulieu, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary.

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Beaulieu Village, Visit The Abbey
Day 2 Visit National Motor Museum, Take a Walk on Beaulieu Heath
Day 3 Enjoy a Boat Ride on Beaulieu River, Visit Buckler’s Hard
Day 4 Cycle The New Forest Loop
Day 5 Take a Segway Tour of the New Forest
Day 6 Visit Palace House and explore its beautiful gardens
Day 7 Experience horse-riding in the New Forest

Food and Drink Scene of Beaulieu

Beaulieu is home to a variety of culinary experiences, from traditional British fare to international cuisine. Here are some dishes and drinks you must try when visiting.

Must-Try Dishes

  • New Forest Venison: Sourced locally, venison dishes are popular in many restaurants here.
  • Beef Wellington: A traditional dish consisting of beef tenderloin, mushrooms, and pastry.
  • Pork Pie: A classic English snack made with pork and a crispy pastry shell.

Local Beverages

  • Gin: Try the locally made gin, especially with fruity flavors such as elderflower or orange.
  • Cider: Made from locally pressed apples, cider is a popular drink in Beaulieu and throughout the UK.
  • Real Ale: Sample some of the locally brewed beers, which are traditionally made using only natural ingredients.

Where to Stay in Beaulieu: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Beaulieu offers a variety of accommodations options to suit travelers’ needs and budgets. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Beaulieu.

  • Montagu Arms Hotel: This luxurious hotel is set in stunning gardens and offers a spa, restaurant, and bar for guests to enjoy.
  • Beaulieu Hotel: This charming hotel is located within the New Forest and offers traditional rooms and a restaurant serving locally-sourced cuisine.
  • The Master Builder’s House Hotel: Set on the beautiful Beaulieu River, this stunning hotel features traditional rooms and a riverside bar.

What to Buy in Beaulieu: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Beaulieu offers a selection of unique and locally-made souvenirs to bring home.

  • New Forest Gin: Purchase a bottle of local gin to take home and enjoy.
  • Local Honey: In addition to its gin, Beaulieu is known for its honey, which is produced from the bees that make their homes across the New Forest.
  • Forest-Inspired Goods: From pottery to clothing, various outlets are selling merchandise inspired by Beaulieu’s natural surroundings.

Local Culture and Customs of Beaulieu

Beaulieu has a rich culture and customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are some things to keep in mind.

  • English Etiquette: When in England, it is customary to follow English etiquette which is to be polite, respectful, and formal in your interactions.
  • Respect for Nature: The New Forest is an important natural reserve, and visitors are advised to enjoy it responsibly and avoid any damage.
  • Driving and Traffic: In the UK, driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Visitors who prefer not to drive can take public transportation to explore the area.

Best Time to Visit Beaulieu

Beaulieu is a year-round destination. The summer months bring long days and warm weather, making it the perfect season for outdoor activities. However, autumn and winter provide great opportunities to experience the peak season attractions at a quieter time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beaulieu

To ensure a positive experience while visiting Beaulieu, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do:

  • Explore the New Forest: The New Forest is a breathtaking natural reserve which you must explore while visiting.
  • Visit Local Attractions: Take advantage of the museums and historical sites that are available to visitors in Beaulieu.
  • Try Local Food and Drink: Have a taste of traditional food and locally brewed beers and ciders.

Don’t:

  • Harm Nature: The New Forest is protected by law, and visitors should respect the natural environment and keep it clean.
  • Littering: Littering is illegal and visitors should always find a bin and dispose of their waste properly.
  • Noisy Parties: Visitors should be respectful to the locals and avoid noisy and disruptive parties.

Safety and Health

Beaulieu is a safe place to visit, but like anywhere else, visitors should take certain precautions to ensure their health and safety.

Safety in Beaulieu

  • Road Safety: Foreign visitors must be aware that the UK drives on the left-hand side of the road, and traffic may be more congested on smaller streets.
  • Watch for Wildlife: While driving or walking through the New Forest, please be mindful of any wandering ponies or other wildlife.

Health in Beaulieu

  • Medical Services: In case of medical emergencies, the village has some pharmacies and GP practices. However, visitors are advised to have their travel insurance with them to avoid additional charges.
  • COVID-19 Precautions: Visitors should follow the advised COVID-19 protocols, which include wearing masks, washing hands regularly, and avoiding unnecessary travel.

Getting to Beaulieu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Beaulieu is easily accessible by car, train or even bus from London or other nearby cities.

Airports Near Beaulieu

The nearest airport to Beaulieu is Southampton International Airport, which is about 23 miles away. Visitors can also use London Heathrow airport, which is 90 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Beaulieu

National Express and Bluestar are two popular bus operators that serve Southampton and other nearby cities. Buses stop at Beaulieu High Street, which is within walking distance of the main attractions.

Other Options

Visitors can also take the train to Beaulieu via the Brockenhurst Station, which is about five miles away.

How to Get Around Beaulieu

Beaulieu is a small village and can easily be explored on foot. However, visitors can rent bicycles, cars, or even horse-riding trips to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Beaulieu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Beaulieu is a great place to start your exploration of the South of England. Bournemouth, Lymington, the Isle of Wight, and other South Coast destinations are all just a short drive away from Beaulieu.

Conclusion

Beaulieu is a charming village filled with stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. This travel guide provides a comprehensive list of attractions, restaurants, accommodations, must-see locations, and other travel tips that visitors can use to plan their perfect trip to Beaulieu. With adventure, relaxation, culture, and beauty guaranteed, there’s no reason not to put Beaulieu next up on a bucket list.

Buccleuch Cottages in Beaulieu. They probably take their name from the Duchess of Buccleuch who owned the Beaulieu Estate in the early 18th century. Buccleuch Cottages in Beaulieu. They probably take their name from the Duchess of Buccleuch who owned the Beaulieu Estate in the early 18th century. Beaulieu Palace House Beaulieu Palace House