The Palace House and National Motor Museum at Beaulieu are one of Hampshire’s most popular visitor attractions. But what does it take to keep this well-oiled machine ticking over? Viv Micklefield went to investigate
Beaulieu means beautiful place and walking through this New Forest estate’s historic grounds it certainly lives up to its name. The current Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, or ‘Lord M’ as he’s affectionately referred to by those working here, is a direct descendent of William the Conqueror and since the 1950s has invited the public to visit his ancestral home. Now best known for its collection of over 250 vehicles that celebrates the story of motoring on British roads, around 400,000 visitors a year descend from far and wide. Besides vintage cars, the museum features vehicles which have starred in popular television series and films, including James Bond, Top Gear and Only Fools and Horses, as well as the latest superbikes, and plenty more. However, keeping everything ticking over, takes a well-oiled team.