1 Palace Ln, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst SO42 7YG
Beaulieu Abbey
Beaulieu Abbey, grid reference SU389026, was a Cistercian abbey in Hampshire, England. It was founded in 1203–1204 by King John and populated by 30 monks sent from the abbey of Cîteaux in France, the mother house of the Cistercian order.
Location
About
Beaulieu Abbey is a magnificent historical landmark located in the New Forest National Park of England. This 13th-century abbey is a must-see destination for anyone who is interested in history and architecture. The abbey has been beautifully preserved, and it offers a glimpse into the life of medieval monks who once inhabited it.
The history of Beaulieu Abbey dates back to 1204, when King John granted the land to the Cistercian monks. The abbey was built over the next few decades and became a thriving community of monks who devoted their lives to prayer, study, and manual labor. However, the abbey's peaceful existence was interrupted by the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, which led to the destruction of many monasteries across England. Beaulieu Abbey was no exception, and it was abandoned and fell into disrepair.
Today, visitors to Beaulieu Abbey can explore the ruins of the abbey church, cloister, and refectory. The site is beautifully maintained, with manicured lawns, gardens, and a museum that tells the story of the abbey and the monks who once lived there. Visitors can take a guided tour of the abbey and learn about its history, architecture, and significance.
One of the highlights of a visit to Beaulieu Abbey is the abbey church. The church is a magnificent example of medieval architecture, with soaring arches, intricate carvings, and stunning stained glass windows. Visitors can walk around the nave and transepts of the church and admire the craftsmanship that went into its construction.
Another highlight of the site is the cloister. This tranquil space was once the heart of the abbey, where the monks would gather to read, meditate, and pray. Today, the cloister is a peaceful oasis, with a central garden surrounded by covered walkways. Visitors can stroll around the cloister and imagine what life was like for the monks who once lived there.
The museum at Beaulieu Abbey is also well worth a visit. The museum tells the story of the abbey and the Cistercian order, as well as the history of the local area. Visitors can see artifacts from the abbey's past, including medieval pottery, sculptures, and documents. There are also interactive exhibits that bring the history of the abbey to life.
Beaulieu Abbey is set in a beautiful location, surrounded by the lush greenery of the New Forest National Park. Visitors can take a stroll around the grounds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There is also a tearoom on site where visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake.
Overall, Beaulieu Abbey is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religion. The site is beautifully preserved and offers a glimpse into the past, with its stunning medieval architecture, tranquil cloister, and museum. It is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the New Forest National Park.
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Things to do nearby
Beaulieu Abbey is a historical landmark located in the New Forest National Park, Hampshire, England. The abbey was founded in 1204 by Cistercian monks and has since become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Visitors to Beaulieu Abbey can enjoy the rich history, breathtaking scenery, and many other fun activities in the surrounding area.
If you are planning a trip to Beaulieu Abbey, there are plenty of things to see and do nearby. Here are some of the top places and activities to consider:
1. Beaulieu National Motor Museum: The Beaulieu National Motor Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. The museum has an impressive collection of over 250 vehicles, ranging from vintage cars to modern supercars. There are also interactive exhibits, a Top Gear exhibition, and a monorail ride through the grounds.
2. Buckler's Hard: Buckler's Hard is a historic village located on the banks of the Beaulieu River. The village was once a shipbuilding center and is now a museum that tells the story of its shipbuilding past. Visitors can explore the shipwright's cottage, see the restored shipbuilding tools, and take a boat tour of the river.
3. New Forest Wildlife Park: If you are interested in seeing some of the native wildlife of the New Forest, the New Forest Wildlife Park is the perfect place to visit. The park has over 150 animals, including otters, wolves, and deer. There are also daily animal talks and feeding sessions.
4. Lymington: Lymington is a charming town located just a short drive from Beaulieu Abbey. The town has a bustling marina, independent shops, and plenty of restaurants and cafes. It's a great place to stroll around and soak up the atmosphere.
5. New Forest: The New Forest is a beautiful national park that covers over 500 square kilometers of woodland, heathland, and grassland. There are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore, as well as horse riding and wildlife spotting opportunities.
6. Palace House: Palace House is an impressive stately home located in the heart of Beaulieu village. The house was once the gatehouse to Beaulieu Abbey and has been home to the Montagu family for over 400 years. Visitors can take a tour of the house and see the family's impressive art collection.
7. Exbury Gardens: Exbury Gardens is a stunning 200-acre garden that is famous for its collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias. The gardens also have a steam railway that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the grounds.
Overall, there is plenty to see and do in and around Beaulieu Abbey. Whether you are interested in history, cars, wildlife, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the New Forest, there is something for everyone. So why not plan a visit to this fascinating part of Hampshire and discover all that it has to offer?