Experience the best of British heritage just a short hop from Southampton: immerse yourself in motoring marvels at the iconic Beaulieu Motor Museum, featuring hundreds of classic cars and interactive displays, then journey back to the 18th century at Buckler's Hard, a unique shipbuilding village on the Beaulieu River.

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Experience the thrill of motoring history at Beaulieu Motor Museum and the Georgian Maritime Haven of Buckler's Hard.

Motors: Beaulieu Motor Museum

Visitors looking at a light blue 1960s mini and other period cars.

Just a short 30-minute drive from Southampton, prepare for an unforgettable day at Beaulieu, home to the renowned National Motor Museum. Dive into the world of automotive history with over 250 classic and vintage cars, including the legendary Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and outrageous vehicles from Top Gear. You'll not only marvel at these iconic machines but also discover fascinating speed record breakers, delve into British motoring heritage, and enjoy engaging interactive exhibits. It's a truly fun and fascinating experience for all ages!

Towards the Gothic circular corner tower.

Your Beaulieu adventure continues at Palace House, the ancestral home of the Montagu family. Originally a 13th-century gatehouse to Beaulieu Abbey, this historic estate beautifully blends monastic ruins with stunning Victorian Gothic architecture. Explore centuries of history, from the tranquil Abbey ruins to the grand interiors of Palace House and tranquil gardens.

Guests enjoying a ride on a lime green elevated carriage.

Make your Beaulieu visit even more spectacular aboard England's first monorail! This unique ride effortlessly connects the National Motor Museum to Palace House, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire estate as you glide between these incredible attractions. For a touch of nostalgia, a vintage open-top bus also ferries visitors between the two. Palace House itself was a pioneer, becoming one of the first stately homes to open its doors to the public back in 1952.

Red-brick fisherman's cottages along causeway down to the sea.

Buckler's Hard: Boaters

Step back in time at Buckler's Hard, a remarkably preserved 18th-century shipbuilding village on the Beaulieu River, where mighty vessels like Nelson's "Agamemnon" were crafted; explore its unique broad main street, once a bustling construction site, and step inside a Georgian shipwright's dwelling, imagining life during the great age of sail.

Throughout your shore excursion, your knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights into history and culture, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience. We'll conclude our tour with a timely return to Southampton Cruise Terminal.

Pricing

Our prices are based on the vehicle you choose, not the number of passengers. This means the more people in your group, the more economical the trip becomes for everyone! To get a personalised quote, simply let us know your group size and the type of vehicle you'd prefer.

Booking

Ready to book your Southampton Shore Excursion? Just get in touch with your ideal date, group size, and vehicle preference. We highly recommend booking ahead, especially if you're travelling during peak season, to ensure you don't miss out!

The MPV, with driver-guide, comfortably accommodates up to 5 passengers with luggage or up to 8 passengers without luggage.
The London black cab is wheelchair-accessible and permitted in areas restricted to regular vehicles. Accommodates up to 4 passengers with luggage or up to 6 passengers without.
The Mercedes minicoach accommodates up to 16 passengers with or without luggage and includes both a driver and a dedicated step-on tour guide.

For some attractions, tickets need to be purchased in advance. We're happy to offer advice on this.
Food and drinks aren't included, but your guide will be delighted to point you towards some great local restaurants, pubs or cafes where you can grab a bite to eat.

Duration: 5 hours
Type: Shore Excursion
Price: From £500
Languages: English
Pick up: Southampton Cruise Terminal

Attraction tickets are not included in the tour prices and we recommend, where possible, you book them online prior to your tour to avoid queuing on the day.

Pick up: Southampton Cruise Terminal

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National Motor Museum, Beaulieu

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Buckler's Hard

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Drop off: Southampton Cruise Terminal

Our customers say...

"Thank you for running us all over Southern England – Beautiful Country"

JH, Washington, DC

"Chris and the group hit it off very well. His knowledge of history and different areas is excellent. Chris was also very helpful with special needs of the different group members."

DR, Maryland , USA