Get ready for the most wonderful time of the year at Beaulieu, as the attraction comes to life with Christmas sparkle from 18th December to 2nd January*, with seasonal decorations, Christmas trees and crackling log fires all part of a festive day out that all the family will enjoy.
Take a trip back to 1889 as you step inside the Montagu family home of Palace House to experience a traditional Victorian Christmas. As the costumed servants busily prepare for the family’s Christmas meal, talk to these characters about life in a 19th century country house and find out how this grand occasion was celebrated over a century ago.
In every room, admire glittering Christmas trees festooned with eye-catching traditional decorations, with a towering 20ft-tall tree as the impressive centrepiece in the main hall. Look out for the tree decorated in a luxury chocolate theme by chocolatiers Charbonnel et Walker.
In the Lower Drawing Room, let the pianist and singers fill you with cheer as they perform uplifting carols, then warm away the winter blues next to roaring log fires.
The festive fun continues with Little Beaulieu, a wonderful play area that is the perfect place for younger visitors to burn off steam during the festive season. Accessible in all weathers, it is the ideal time to explore, with a special Christmas feel over the holidays. While kids wear themselves out, parents can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or even a mince pie in the family-friendly outdoor seating area.
For those that truly believe, you may even catch a glimpse of Father Christmas before the big day. Rumour has it that he is out and about in the Beaulieu grounds, driving a vehicle from the National Motor Museum’s collection – make sure to wave to him as he drives past.**
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a Yuletide trail, so pick up an activity sheet and be guided on a festive adventure. Make sure to stop at the National Motor Museum and see its Christmas tree decorated with toy cars. The trail will take you past brand new exhibition Bond in Motion – No Time To Die, featuring the iconic cars, gadgets and costumes from the latest 007 film. Then hitch a ride on the Veteran Bus, complete with Christmas decorations.
All Christmas holiday activities are included in the Beaulieu admission ticket, which also includes World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, the Secret Army Exhibition, Beaulieu Abbey and its grounds and gardens. To book your tickets and for more information, visit www.beaulieu.co.uk.
Looking for Christmas gift inspiration? Why not treat your friends or family to a memorable day out at Beaulieu with a gift voucher, available to buy in pairs or for a family. Or for something a little more personal, head to the Beaulieu gift shop. From model cars and motoring mugs, to stunning jewellery, scarves and festive fare, you’re sure to find plenty of goodies to tempt and inspire you. Plus don’t forget to take a look at the range of Bond in Motion – No Time To Die merchandise available to purchase.
Tickets are also on sale for the new Artisan Collective Christmas Fair taking place from 10th – 12th December. This festive gift and food wonderland will help you to get into the Christmas spirit, with delicious artisan food and drink, seasonal gifts, gourmet street food and live music, all set in the heart of the Beaulieu visitor attraction. Visit www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/artisan-collective-fair for ticket options and more information.
* Please note, the Beaulieu attraction will be closed on Christmas Day.
** Up until Boxing Day 26th December. Appearances of Father Christmas are subject to weather conditions and unfortunately, due to safety precautions, he cannot offer personal meet-and-greets.