A mini guide to
Beaulieu and Lymington: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Brockenhurst to Beaulieu
Beaulieu says Brockenhurst is the nearest main line station, about seven miles away, with a taxi rank; you can also hire a bike.
Check winter openings
Exbury Gardens and their steam railway close for the winter from 31 October apart from Christmas events. Check before you go.
Free parking at Beaulieu
Beaulieu's car parks are free and hold up to 1,000 cars, with a separate car park for disabled visitors near reception.
Over to the Isle of Wight
From Lymington Pier, Wightlink's ferry takes foot passengers to Yarmouth, so a day trip to the island works without a car.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Beaulieu and Lymington?
Beaulieu and Lymington is in The New Forest, England. The National Motor Museum and Beaulieu Abbey, Buckler's Hard, Exbury Gardens and the harbour town of Lymington. Nearby stops and stations include Lymington Town and Lymington Pier, Beaulieu Road, New Forest Tour (summer).
How long do I need in Beaulieu and Lymington?
A full day for Beaulieu; half a day each for Buckler's Hard and Lymington. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include National Motor Museum, Palace House, Beaulieu Abbey. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Lymington Town and Lymington Pier (South Western Railway); Beaulieu Road (South Western Railway); New Forest Tour (summer) (Open-top bus). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 12 places to eat and drink in and around Beaulieu and Lymington, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 4 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Beaulieu and Lymington accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Beaulieu and Lymington
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Buckler's Hard
Georgian hamlet on the Beaulieu River where ships for Nelson's navy were built; museum and reconstructed cottages.
Palace House
Montagu family home at Beaulieu, where costumed guides show what life was like in Victorian times; included in the Beaulieu ticket.
Beaulieu Abbey
Ruins of a Cistercian abbey founded by King John in 1203 to 1204, with the cloister and a herb garden.
Photo credits
- Lymington: Charlesdrakew (talk), Public domain, source
- Buckler's Hard: Photograph by Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net)., CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Palace House: David Gearing, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Beaulieu Abbey: Adam lebaigue, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst: Michael Garlick, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring The New Forest