Beaulieu’s famous Monorail celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2024!
It’s been over 50 years since the Monorail at Beaulieu was opened in 1974! Many visitors to Beaulieu over the last 50 years will have enjoyed a serene aerial tour of the attraction on our mile-long ‘Skytrain’, taking in sweeping views of the grounds and gardens as well as a birds-eye-view of the National Motor Museum!
The History of the Monorail
In 1974, the Monorail we know and love today was opened by The Wombles (furry, secretive creatures created by Elizabeth Beresford), but this was not the first ‘monorail’ at Beaulieu… a less permanent structure was in place for the opening of the National Motor Museum in 1972 using battery operated mechanics from milk floats! However, soon after, something more permanent was needed and todays Monorail was built. A trip to Butlins at Skegness to see the first commercial monorail system in the UK led to an agreement whereby Beaulieu purchased the same mechanism for our skytrain today!
The monorail today
Over 240,000 visitors take a trip on the Monorail each year on our 2 trains, recently named ‘Monty’ and ‘Mary’. To celebrate their 50th birthdays, the station underwent a refresh for its anniversary celebrations and those visiting noticed a new design on both the outside and inside of the carriages paying homage to the rich history of this family favourite ride. Don’t forget visitors can still enjoy unlimited rides on the Monorail during your visit to Beaulieu, and it’s all included in your general admission ticket! Plus, keep an eye out for Beaulieu Monorail merchandise in our Gift Shop!
Birthday celebrations
We had an amazing day on the 31st July 2024 celebrating the 50th anniversary of our Monorail!
Opened in July 1974, the Monorail has been a family favourite amongst visitors to the Beaulieu attraction and Lord Montagu marked the 50th anniversary in style with a feast of celebrations and special guests. Don’t forget to take your ride on the Monorail when you visit with the family!
The Wombles were among those to return 50 years later, and the day was also filled with family entertainment including jazzy live music and face painting for everyone! Thank you to all those who joined us in the celebrations, and you can read more about the event here.