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While Beaulieu in Hampshire may be more famous for its motor museum, Beaulieu Palace House is an attraction in and of itself. One Christmas a few years ago, my husband and I were excited to attend an after hours event at Beaulieu Palace House, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Wessex Section of the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts’ Club.
Beaulieu Palace House is open to the public most of the year and at Christmas it is beautifully decorated. There are also special events every Christmastime. The dates for this year are 21st December until 5th January, so do visit their website to find out more.
Our Magical Evening at Beaulieu
As we drove up the long driveway in my husband’s 1997 Bentley Turbo R, imposing Beaulieu Palace House appeared out of the shadows. Beautifully lit and decorated, the warm interior beckoned us inside.
It was a cold night, and we hurried across the bridge that spans the now-dry moat. The door was opened for us, and we immediately felt heat of the roaring wood fires crackling merrily in the fireplaces. It was like stepping back in time.
Beaulieu Palace House
Beaulieu Palace House was a gift from King Henry VIII to the Montague Family back in 1538. Created from the gatehouse of Beaulieu Abbey, which dates back to the 13th century, Palace House has been in the family ever since. The house was remodelled extensively in the 1800’s, so is now very much a Victorian country house. The Gothic interior is very grand, but warm greens and reds on the walls make it feel cosy at the same time.
The Christmas decorations are spectacular. Fresh holly adorns the stairs, and one of the Christmas trees is two stories high. You can see the star on top of it behind me.
Exploring Beaulieu Palace House
We were allowed to wander round and explore this beautiful property. There was also a guide, costumed as a Victorian maid, on hand to answer any questions and share facts and anecdotes. Many of the rooms, like the late Edward, Lord Montague’s library below, look as if the occupants had simply stepped out for a few moments.
Displays and exhibits tell the stories of some of the previous occupants of the house. In addition, there is a collection of the innovative and beautiful artwork of Belinda, Lady Montague, Lord Montague’s mother.
There is a Christmas tree in nearly every room, and each of the trees was decorated in a unique style.
This one is decorated in bright reds with Chinese style lanterns. I loved this reception room, with its warm log fire, comfortable chairs and striking artwork.
The Dining Room
Dinner was served in the beautiful dining room with its fan-vaulted ceiling. The room formed part of the original Abbey gatehouse, and dates back to the 13th century.
The dinner was hosted by Lord and Lady Montague, a lovely couple who are passionate about the history of Beaulieu Palace House and their visitors’ experience of it.
The dinner was lovely, with lively, interesting conversation and of course, the celebrations for the 50th Anniversary of the Wessex section of the RREC. It was wonderful to spend time in this beautiful property, all dressed in its finest for Christmas!
Information About Visiting Beaulieu
At Christmas Beaulieu invites visitors to step back in time to a Victorian Christmas with crackling log fires, costumed guides, carol singing and even the chance to watch actors portray a family pantomime rehearsal from years gone by.
Beaulieu Palace House is located in Beaulieu village, Hampshire. Beaulieu Palace House is open daily from 10am every day except Christmas Day. A general admission ticket gives you entrance to the National Motor Museum, The World of Top Gear, Beaulieu Palace House, Beaulieu Abbey, Little Beaulieu and The Secret Army Exhibition. Visit the Beaulieu website to find out more. I recommend pre-booking your tickets.
This post contains my honest opinions and the advice I give to friends. None of our experiences were gifted and we paid all our own expenses to attend the event at Beaulieu. Information is correct to the best of my knowledge at the time of writing and I accept no responsibility for, nor can I be held liable for, your experience of any of these venues. To avoid disappointment, be sure to visit venue websites for opening times, their full terms and conditions, and to check prices, availability and payment terms.
More Stately Homes, Castles and Palaces You May Enjoy
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An Evening at Highclere Castle
A Very Special Visit to Windsor Castle
What a beautiful place. Very lovely.
It really is, Patrick! We had an amazing time.
I can never get enough of historical and beautiful estates like that one, especially when they’re all decked out for the holidays! Thanks for sharing, April. 🙂
Shirley
Thank you, Shirley! I really love them as well 🙂
That looks so pretty! I just love touring old historical estates. Thanks for taking us along.
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, Joanne. Thank you!