Tuesday 31 July 2012

Simply Japanese - A Great Day Out For All Japanese Motoring Enthusiasts Sunday 5th August 2012

On Sunday 5th August, all owners of Japanese vehicles have an opportunity to display their motors in the picturesque grounds of the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu for Simply Japanese, another in Beaulieu’s popular range of Simply rallies.



Last year, Beaulieu welcomed around 400 Mazdas for its inaugural, and highly successful, Simply Mazda event. In response to demand, this year Simply Mazda has evolved into Simply Japanese, broadening the range of vehicles that can join the rally.

All Japanese marques, of any age or model, are welcome, from Honda, Nissan and Toyota, to Lexus, Subaru and Mazda. Owners can display their vehicles in the parkland, take part in the event activities, and enjoy all the delights of the Beaulieu attraction, including the National Motor Museum’s exciting BOND IN MOTION exhibition, which showcases 50 original vehicles from the James Bond films and behind-the-scenes footage from some of the most thrilling vehicle stunt sequences.

 

1982 Honda GL1100
Throughout the day visitors will be given the opportunity to vote for their favourite vehicle on display in the People’s Choice Awards. In the afternoon a cavalcade of the most popular vehicles will take place around the Beaulieu attraction, and the winning vehicle and runner up will be announced in a prize-giving ceremony. The winning vehicle owner will receive a coveted special 60th anniversary edition Beaulieu Trophy, with the runner up receiving a bottle of Beaulieu Bubbly.

For entrants arriving on the day in their Japanese vehicle and participating in the event, individual ticket prices are £10 per adult and £5 per child.

Book advance tickets online at www.beaulieushop.co.uk or on telephone number 01590 612888, which you can also call for information on group/club entry. For all enquiries regarding Japanese marque-related trade stands, telephone 01590 614614.

Entry into the Beaulieu parkland with your Japanese vehicle is from 9.30am when refreshments will be available.

All other visitors who wish to see the event, but not participate in a Japanese vehicle should enter Beaulieu via the Main Reception at normal attraction admission prices from 10am.

Admission to the event includes entry to the whole Beaulieu attraction; the National Motor Museum and BOND IN MOTION, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, Beaulieu Abbey, and Palace House and gardens.

Simply Japanese is part of a growing calendar of Simply rallies which has rapidly expanded to include a wide variety of themes covering many makes and models. All Simply rallies are run and organised by Beaulieu and take place in the grounds of the National Motor Museum. Another new addition to the Simply rallies for 2012 is Simply 4x4 on 12th August. For more information please visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk

This event is sponsored by specialist motor insurance broker Adrian Flux.


www.treasurehouses.co.uk

Summer Holiday Workshops At The National Motor Museum

Throughout August at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, visiting families can join in a series of fun, drop-in creative activities on a theme inspired by the museum’s latest exhibition BOND IN MOTION. You’ll be able to find out more about Special Agents using vehicles and caravans to inspire your creative skills while you join in.  The activities,sponsored by the Caravan Club and Shell Art Collection, will be available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7th – 30th August, 12.00 – 4.00pm.

Young visitors and their families can enjoy activities, such as designing a ‘secret society’ badge, and ‘Motoring Posters’, with an opportunity to design a poster of your favourite car, caravan or character, or why not design your own Special Agent poster. The ‘Car Construction Challenge’ is fun for all the family and offers the chance to build a caravan fit for a Special Agent, using Meccano - and then test it to the limit!

Come along and find out more about the wonderful Motoring Collections housed at Beaulieu and visit the BOND IN MOTION Exhibition while you enjoy creating your own artwork and vehicles.

The activities are included in the price of your entrance ticket to Beaulieu, adult £20, child (5-17) £9.95 or £52.50 for a family ticket (2 adults +3 children or 1 adult + 4 children).
No booking is required, just drop-in and join in the exciting sessions.

Visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk for more details about these activities.

Friday 27 July 2012

Harewood: Making Summer Easy - The 7 Weeks of Summer Membership Offer

For the first time, Harewood is offering a 7 week summer membership, which allows you and your family free entry to the grounds from July until Sunday 3rd September and either free or discounted admission to Harewood’s range of fun family events.

Tire little ones out with fresh air and fun in Harewood’s extensive gardens and grounds, the House both upstairs and downstairs, the renowned Bird Garden and Penguin Pool, and the terrific Adventure Playground.  Or make the most of the members’ discount in the family friendly facilities, which include the refurbished Courtyard Cafe, Captain Finley’s Fish & Chip Stall and the newly-stocked Harewood Courtyard Shop.  Plus there’s free entry to many of Harewood’s events which include the energetic, Olympic-themed ‘Games in the Park’ and the famous ‘VW Festival’, the largest family-friendly VW event in the North of England.  This exclusive summer membership also includes reduced admission fees for Outdoor Theatre, including family-fun The Twits and Sword in the Stone, and Peel Heritage’s mesmerising rendition of Black Beauty, as well as the Drive-In Movie night which features the classic, ‘The Italian Job’.  It’s a great opportunity to make the most of all that Harewood has to offer this summer, makes sense on the pocket and gives you a stress free schedule of activities and entertainment to keep children of all ages happy this summer.

Prices are as follows:

Family (2 adults, 3 children) - £50, Additional Child - £10, Adult - £20 (for giftaid prices see the website.)

Visit http://www.harewood.org/harewood-card/renew-membership
Or call the Box Office on 0113 218 1000 for details.

Wednesday 25 July 2012

Cannonball 2000 To Make Dreams Come True At Beaulieu

On Sunday 29th July Cannonballers in a variety of prestige cars, will gather at the James Bond – Bond in Motion exhibition at the Beaulieu Motor Museum to provide a fun-filled dream day out for beneficiary children and their families from charity Dreams Come True (www.dctc.org.uk) ahead of the first ever Cannonball 2000 event from 5th – 9th September. 

Cannonball owners will showcase a variety of cars to the Dreams Come True children and their families a few weeks prior to embarking on a 2,000 mile journey over five days from London to Paris, via Barcelona, Monte Carlo and Milan, raising funds for Dreams Come True one of the chosen charities of Beaulieu Motor museum.
 
The Cannonball 2000 Dreams Come True James Bond event is open to members of the public visiting Beaulieu Motor Museum on Sunday 29th July.  Some of the cars on show from the Cannonballers will include a Maserati Gran Cabrio, Ferrari 458 Italia, Ferrari California and an Aston Martin DB9, alongside a variety of cars seen in the James Bond films, giving the Dreams Come True children a wide variety of supercars to explore and enjoy.

Bond Stunt Driver Ray Deehan will meet the children to talk about stunt driving, car chases and film sequences.   Children will enjoy lunch and be able to meet model Katie Green and her partner Nathan who will attend in their Aston Martin DB9 along with Dreams Come True supporters TV presenter Melissa Porter and model, muse and TV presenter Hofit Golan.

Dreams Come True, Cannonball 2000’s chosen charity, helps children from 2 to 21 with life threatening and long-term illness by providing each child with an unforgettable experience creating wonderful memories to share with loved ones and friends. Part of Cannonball 2000’s fee goes directly to Dreams Come True and the open day at Beaulieu will provide additional fundraising as well as enabling the children to have fun with a variety of prestige and vintage cars.

Cannonball 2000 making Dreams Come True

Cannonball 2000 is a five-day road trip billed as ‘the motoring lifestyle event of 2012’ and living up to its strapline, it has already attracted an impressive line-up of vehicle entries. Ranging from the rare to the exotic with entries such as a DeLorean DMC 12 (film fans will recognise from Back to the Future films) and a Lamborghini Gallardo LP570 Performante, the Cannonball 2000 is guaranteed to turn heads on its route across Europe.

From the official formation grid start at the London Hilton Park Lane Hotel on 5th September, the Cannonball 2000 is the ultimate lifestyle event - combining the exhilaration and thrills of a driving event with the very best clubs, bars, hotels and restaurants in each destination.

The event has secured sponsorship deals with well-known consumer brands, exclusive bars and lifestyle products such as Brand Hatton, Amika Mayfair, Rock Star energy drink, Bobby White London and Muc Off.  

The inaugural event has attracted Cannonballers from all walks of life and corners of the globe, including TV personalities and a former world boxing champion. The 2012 event is already fully sold out, but with 2013’s event planned to be longer, more daring and more spectacular, places are likely to fill fast. For more details visit www.cannonball2000.com

For regular updates on Cannonball 2000 visit: www.cannonball2000.com, or follow on Twitter @cannonball2000 and Facebook at: www.facebook.com/cannonball2000rally

Tuesday 24 July 2012

Harewood Goes Urban for the Olympics 11th to 12th August 2012


Games in the Park’ events have been taking place around the region this summer to celebrate all things Olympic.  Games in the Park is part of ‘Imove’, Legacy Trust UK’s celebratory programme for Yorkshire and part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad.
Legacy Trust UK is an independent charity set up to create a lasting cultural and sporting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by funding ideas and local talent to inspire creativity across the UK.
Games in the Park at Harewood House in August is a chance to see Harewood as you’ve never seen it before.  Freerunning@ is an extraordinary freerunners’ outfit that will show you some of the most extraordinary stunts using the landscape and architecture of Harewood.  It’s perfect for teens to get their blood racing, and includes urban performances from this top freerunner group showcasing their energetic choreography which combines acrobatics and martial arts.

http://www.youtube.com/share_popup?v=hRV3AGkGsA4  You can even have a go yourself with our Freerunning@ workshops (pre-bookable).  Check the website for times of performances.

The event also boasts a combination of traditional games with contemporary culture and dance, mixing family-friendly activities, poetry workshops, storytelling and performances from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance.

Ticket details are as follows:
Adult: £10.00, Senior Citizen: £9.00, Child: £6.00, Family: £30.00, Student: £6.00.
(Family Ticket = 2 adults and up to 3 children (aged 4-16). Children under 4 are free.)
Tickets for this event include entrance to the Grounds and this event is free to Harewood Members.
Become a member and enjoy either an annual membership, or enjoy a ‘7 Weeks of Summer’ membership.  Visit visit www.harewood.org/membership.

Monday 23 July 2012

Norfolk and Norwich Festival

A stretch of North Norfolk’s stunning wild coastline is to be transformed for an extraordinary outdoor adventure as it becomes the setting for one of the UK’s biggest cultural events over the next few weeks. 

A series of awe-inspiring sculptural installations will punctuate a three mile path on the Holkham Estate for Walking – a major collaboration between the Norfolk & Norwich Festival and the internationally acclaimed artist Robert Wilson - from 20 August to 2 September.

Participants will be offered the once in a lifetime opportunity to experience a series of magnificent sculptural and sound installations as part of London 2012 Festival – the spectacular 12-week nationwide celebration running from 21 June until 9 September 2012 bringing together leading artists from across the world with the very best from the UK.

Walking will also offer visitors will also have the chance to view this stunning landscape from a fresh perspective while escaping the pressures of day to day life.

Wilson has used choreography, painting, sculpture and video for a number of celebrated collaborations with Philip Glass on the operatic masterpiece Einstein on the Beach, which first premiered in Avignon France in 1976 and was recently revived for The Barbican in London, also as part of the London 2012 Festival.

Now the pioneering American director is turning his creative talents to Walking in collaboration with
Dutch visual artist Theun Mosk and theatre maker Boukje Schweigman, who wowed audiences with the world premiere of their physical theatre piece Mirror at this year’s Norfolk & Norwich Festival.
On arrival at Holkham, participants will be asked to hand over mobile phones and other possessions so they can totally switch off from any distractions, enabling them to reflect on the beauty of the surrounding landscape and dramatic skyline.

Visitors will set off on a slow paced walk along the carefully selected path which winds through meadows, woodlands and dunes as well as a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
The stage will be set for those who choose to venture along the route and into sculptural installations which rise out from the landscape evoking images of ancient civilisations and alien worlds.
Participants will initially encounter an imposing open air courtyard standing in distinct contrast to its natural environment.  A path of white stones will tempt onlookers to explore this intriguing space and discover the mysteries inside its monumental walls. 

Further along the route, a cone can be seen in the distance pointing towards the heavens – inviting explorers to step through its circular doorway into this intriguing haven.

The experience of these mysterious structures will be further enhanced by ambient sound installations enabling each walker to create their own unique narrative.

Mid route, participants will be able to sit back and relax in specially designed chairs while listening to sound composed by Tom Waits.

The installations are not only intricately designed to give participants a fresh perspective on what to some is a familiar landscape but the route also goes through an area which is not usually accessible to the public, creating yet more unknown vistas.

Walking producer Kate Harvey said: “In an era of 24-hour news channels, when time and attention are dominated by an overload of information from emails, phones and the internet, Walking provides a unique liberation from the stresses and strains of everyday life. For a brief 4 hour period we invite you to leave your pressures behind, free your senses and experience the world in a new dimension.”
A native of Waco, Texas, Robert Wilson was educated at the University of Texas and arrived in New York in 1963 to attend Brooklyn's Pratt Institute before receiving international recognition for his works, many of which examine our perception of time and space. Walking premiered at Oerol Festival in the Netherlands in 2008.

“It’s very curious when you do Walking. One’s perception is altered. We did it on the island of Terschelling off the coast of the Netherlands. Local people, who knew the landscape, heard things they had never heard before, began to see things they had never seen before. Some went two or three times. All the senses are heightened in one way or another. It’s theatre, but not as you know it,” said Robert Wilson, who will be visiting Holkham for the launch of Walking.

A team of production crew, engineers and labourers will be based on site over the next month constructing the installations and work has already begun on the two larger structures – the enclosure and the cone.

More than 12 tonnes of steel will be used to construct the first installation – a 20 metre by 20 metre and 5 metre high enclosure - along with 1,200 bunches of willow, 176 sheets of plywood and 80 tonnes of sand. The cone will be made out of a specially designed timber frame which is clad in clay.
Materials for all the installations have been sourced from local firms, including Arc Fabrications and A & W Cushion Ltd and the project has also benefitted from donations of plant machinery and tools from companies such as May Gurney, Hewden and tool hire company GAP Group.

Kate Harvey said: “We have decided to use local firms as far as possible to keep the benefits of the project within the region. We are receiving a lot of help and support from local companies who are interested and excited in being involved in such a high profile project with an international artist. We hope this will leave a legacy of collaboration between the Norfolk & Norwich Festival and local firms, many of whom do not traditionally work within the arts.”

Norfolk & Norwich Festival’s production team has worked closely with Natural England and the Holkham Estate from the outset to ensure that plans did not impact on the delicate balance of the natural environment.

Sarah Wilson, Natural England’s area manager for Natural England Norfolk and Suffolk said: “Natural England has been pleased to work with the Norfolk and Norwich Festival organisers of this exciting cultural event, so that visitors can enjoy the wonderful scenery and unique location of ‘Walking’ while minimising any possible impacts on the natural environment”

Walking  has been funded by Legacy Trust UK and supported by the Foyle Foundation, was commissioned by Norfolk & Norwich Festival.

Norfolk & Norwich Festival’s Artistic Director William Galinsky said: “Walking has provided a fantastic opportunity for Norfolk & Norwich Festival to get involved in London 2012 Festival - the biggest Arts Festival the UK has ever seen. We not only get a unique event in which internationally renowned artist Robert Wilson responds to our gorgeous natural landscape but Walking will also give us an opportunity to build on Norfolk’s cultural reputation and show that we can do amazingly unusual and fantastic things in this area.”

Ruth Mackenzie, Director, London 2012 Festival and Cultural Olympiad, said: “Norfolk & Norwich Festival has secured the UK premiere of this exceptional piece by one of the world's great artists. Walking is one of three pieces for the London 2012 Festival by Robert Wilson – a first for a festival in the UK”

Helen Lax, Regional Director, Arts Council England, East, said ‘Walking promises to be one of the most exciting and thought-provoking events of the summer. It is a celebration of a stunning part of our region, allowing audiences to take time to appreciate the beauty of the North Norfolk coast. We are also pleased to see Norfolk and Norwich Festival programming work both outside of the Festival period, and in new and unexpected places, in celebration of this Olympic year.’

Legacy Trust UK is creating a lasting impact from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games by funding ideas and local talent to inspire creativity across the UK.

Dugald Mackie, Chair of Legacy Trust UK, said: “The benefits of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be felt not just in London but throughout the UK. The Games are a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase the East of England to millions of people across the world. We believe that projects like Walking will inspire and encourage people to get involved and will help leave a lasting legacy for the region.”

David Horton-Fawkes, Estates Director, Holkham said:  “Holkham is delighted to support this groundbreaking event which will challenge perceptions of the nature and  environment and will enhance people’s respect for this area outstanding beauty.

A second London 2012 Festival project from the Norfolk & Norwich Festival Out of the Water by Helen Paris and Caroline Wright and featuring music by Jocelyn Pook will take place at Holkham from August 25 - 27.

Tickets for Walking cost £15 and concessions £5 - available to under 25s, full time students, those in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance or income support.

Tickets are available through our website: www.nnfestival.org.uk or by phone 01603 766400 or in person at Norwich Theatre Royal.

Skyfall Bikes On Display In Bond In Motion

SKYFALL © 2012Danjaq LLC and United Artists Corporation...

Two Honda CRF250R motorcycles that feature in the opening sequence of the 23rd James Bond film, Skyfall, shot in Istanbul and Adana, Turkey, plus the unmodified, original machine, are now on display in the BOND IN MOTION exhibition at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu.

One is a Turkish police bike that Patrice, played by Ola Rapace, seizes after a policeman crashes. The other is a Turkish merchant’s bike that James Bond, Daniel Craig, uses to pursue Patrice. Both bikes feature extensive modifications courtesy of Skyfall’s Special Effects coordinator, Chris Corbould, and his award-winning team.

Beaulieu’s Commercial Director Stephen Munn explained: “We are delighted to have these new vehicle additions to BOND IN MOTION; the exhibition features vehicles spanning five decades, from the early Bond films to the most recent. These bikes from Skyfall bring the display right up to date. The exhibition, which opened in January, has proved a great hit with Beaulieu’s visitors and these new exhibits make this unique exhibition unmissable for vehicle and Bond enthusiasts alike.”

BOND IN MOTION showcases 50 of the best-loved and most iconic Bond vehicles – some never publicly displayed before - in celebration of the 50th year of the James Bond films.

The exhibition features a whole range of vehicles which have appeared in Bond films over the 50 years including cars, boats, motorbikes, jets and many more. This collection of iconic movie vehicles includes the Aston Martin DB5 from GoldenEye, the 1937 Phantom lll Rolls-Royce from Goldfinger, the Lotus Esprit S1 affectionately nicknamed ‘Wet Nellie’ from The Spy Who Loved Me.

BOND IN MOTION is on display until the 6th January 2013 and can be seen as part of a visit to the whole Beaulieu attraction.  For further information visit www.beaulieu.co.uk

Skyfall is due for release in the UK on 26th October.

Monday 16 July 2012

Summer at the Treasure Houses of England - Great Days Out

Forget old-fashioned images of historic houses - today’s enigmatic Treasure Houses present something for everyone with a wealth of entertainment from special exhibitions, superb shopping and afternoon tea to children’s play areas, discovery tours and activity days. Discover Capability Brown landscapes and contemporary sculpture gardens while the kids amuse themselves in spiraling mazes.

Presenting a spectacular schedule of summer events, from live theatre performances, free runners, drive –in movies and historical characters, to dressing up boxes and quiz trails – not to mention an array of wildlife, farm animals, cycle trails and walking paths - expect an animated and action-packed experience for all the family.

The Treasure Houses of England are a spellbinding storybook spanning nine centuries, presenting visitors with a living history of England through the ages amidst beautifully scenic backdrops that have featured in TV and films such as ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘Sherlock Holmes’.

For a distinctive summer’s day out, take a trip to the houses for a magical mix of things to see and do – here’s just a few highlights:

 

Beaulieu’s popular drop-in summer workshops for younger visitors take place on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout August.  Supported by the Caravan Club and linking in with the attraction’s BOND IN MOTION exhibition, the workshops will be on a Special Agent theme with poster and badge making, and model building with Meccano.

 


Families can hear about the daily life of people who lived and worked at Blenheim Palace in the 1920s, through the eyes of Mrs Crumpet the ‘Head Gardeners Wife’ with costumed entertainment ‘Stories from the Gardens’ bringing history to life over the summer holidays (21 July – 31 August).  Expend their energy with Blenheim Palace’s Active Spring Kids Camp (30 July - 3 August, 9am to 5pm, 7 to 16 years) where a variety of activities include archery/swing building, team building/adventure games, survival skills/cooking and more.   Take a trip by train to The Pleasure Gardens, where a bevy of exotic butterflies await.  Muddle round the Marlborough Maze, or let the kids loose on the action-packed Adventure Playground.


Burghley’s Garden of Surprises combines fun and history, featuring a moss house, the swivelling Caesar busts, basins of water, jets and a mirrored maze – all designed for optimum enjoyment for all ages.

 







Embark on a family adventure at Castle Howard for a magical and memorable day out.  Jump on the land-train and go wild down at the Lakeside Adventure Playground where 17-high energy, confidence-building pieces of equipment will amuse and entertain kids and adults alike.  Catch Castle Howard’s boat and set sail across the Great Lake to spy the wildlife and discover the parkland with their new illustrated trail and Geoffrey the Lion. And don’t miss their Get Active Weekend (26 – 27 August) to get stuck in to a range of new activities for all the family from weird and wonderful bikes to archery and climbing.
 

Visit Chatsworth this summer for a season of family fun in the house, garden, farmyard and adventure playground.   Children and adults can explore the new Climbing Forest in the adventure playground, meet lots of friendly animals and enjoy an array of free seasonal activities in the farmyard.

 



 

Harewood invites visitors into its beautiful Bird Garden to see many species of rare and exotic birds from all over the world, including penguins, flamingos and parrots. Follow up with a spell in the Adventure Playground and climb, clamber, slide and swing your way around. Inside the house, play dress up in servants’ clothes and step back to Victorian times or discover the hidden delights behind the cupboard doors…
From a fun children’s quiz to Horrible Histories written by Terry Deary – Hatfield House presents an eclectic mix of entertainment. Bloody Hollow is an exciting adventure play area featuring a rope bridge, aerial runway and a tree house, plus all the favourites such as swings, springies and a seesaw. Don’t forget to have a tractor ride and meet all the animals at Hatfield Park Farm.


 Holkham Hall’s Bygones Museum houses a vast collection of more than 4,000 fascinating exhibits ranging from mechanical toys and agricultural tools to vintage cars and massive steam engines dating from the Victorian period to the mid-1900s.  Outside, hit the cycle park to explore even more of the estate – and new for 2012 – both adults and youngsters can savour the experience with a recumbent (lie back cycle) or scooter!  Don’t miss Holkham’s watery world too with leisurely lake cruises and boat hire, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try water zorbing to really get your heart racing.  Then schedule in a visit to the beach at Holkham - one of the largest Nature Reserves and most unspoilt and beautiful stretches of sand in the country.


At Leeds Castle, dive into the The Knights’ Realm Playground - a huge adventure playground built entirely in wood. Climb the Maiden’s Tower, scale the Revetment Wall, joust along an aerial runway, cross the perilous bridge between the New Castle and Gloriette and explore the Secret Tunnels. Slides, bash bags and rope walkways all add to the fun.  Throw into the mix a Toddlers' Play Area, spiralling Maze and underworld Grotto, Turf Maze and daily falconry displays (except Tuesday’s & Thursday’s) – and Leeds Castle ensures a formidable formula of fun for all the family.

Boasting 30 acres of serene formal and natural garden environments – the Abbey Gardens at Woburn Abbey include everything from manicured lawns and colourful flowerbeds to peaceful woodland glades and ponds teeming with life.  Discover the bog garden - a recent addition with its carnivorous plants, the romance of the recently restored Doric Temple and watch the recreation work in progress on the rockery and grotto.  Offering free children's activities such as quiz booklets to help them discover lots of fun facts; they can also take part in free entertainments in Woburn’s gardens, including storytelling, and art and craft activities (21st July to 5th September).



The Treasure Houses of England (THE) is a consortium of 10 of the country’s finest palaces, historic houses and castles. Unique in character, each property has its own magical blend of magnificent architecture, fabulous surroundings, world class collections and family attractions to enjoy.

For more information visit www.treasurehouses.co.uk

Simply Bond on Sunday 29th July at Beaulieu


Aston Martin DB5 from 'Goldeneye' at Beaulieu
Simply Bond on Sunday 29th July at Beaulieu, a special one-off event connected to the BOND IN MOTION exhibition at the National Motor Museum. If you own a vehicle of the same make and model as one that has appeared in any of the Bond films, then bring it down to Beaulieu for a thrilling once in a lifetime experience.

Enjoy a drive through the beautiful New Forest before arriving at Beaulieu to display your vehicle in the attraction’s picturesque parkland. Let your car become the star, and take the opportunity to view the range of vehicles on display. Simply Bond is open to any model of vehicle which has featured in a James Bond film, from a glamorous Aston Martin, Lotus or Rolls-Royce, to a more everyday BMW, or Renault. To find out if your vehicle has appeared in a Bond film, visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk and click on Simply Bond, where you will find a full list of eligible vehicles.




Beaulieu visitors can vote for their favourite vehicle on display, with the winner receiving a People’s Choice special edition Beaulieu Trophy, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Beaulieu attraction. The winning vehicle will lead a cavalcade of 20 vehicles selected from all Simply Bond participants through the grounds of the National Motor Museum.


BMW R1200 Motorcycle from Tomorrow Never Dies
Visitors can also see BOND IN MOTION on show in the National Motor Museum until December 2012. The largest exhibition of Bond vehicles staged anywhere in the world, it showcases 50 genuine vehicles from the Bond films as part of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the James Bond films. Some of the best-loved and most iconic vehicles are on display, including ‘Wet Nellie’ the Lotus Esprit S1 from The Spy Who Loved Me and the Casino Royale Aston Martin DBS stunt car which rolled seven and three quarter turns to claim a Guinness World Record. View film clips and behind-the-scenes footage from some of the most memorable vehicle stunts in the film series.

For entrants arriving on the day in their Bond vehicle and participating in the event, individual ticket prices are £10 adult and £5 child. Book advance tickets at www.beaulieushop.co.uk or by telephone on 01590 612888, which you can also call for information on group/club entry. For all enquiries regarding trade stands, telephone 01590 614614.

Entry into the Beaulieu parkland with your Bond vehicle is from 9.30am when refreshments will be available in the Brabazon Restaurant.

All other visitors who wish to see the event, but not participate in a Bond-featured vehicle, should enter Beaulieu from 10am, via the Main Reception at normal attraction admission prices.

Admission to the event includes entry to the whole Beaulieu attraction; the National Motor Museum, BOND IN MOTION, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, Beaulieu Abbey, and Palace House and gardens.

Simply Bond is a one-off addition to a growing calendar of Simply rallies which has rapidly expanded to include a wide variety of themes covering many makes and models. All Simply rallies are run and organised by Beaulieu and take place in the grounds of the National Motor Museum. The newest additions to the Simply rallies for 2012 are Simply Japanese on 5th August and Simply 4x4 on 12th August. For more information please visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk
This event is sponsored by specialist motor insurance broker Adrian Flux.

Thursday 12 July 2012

The Right Honourable David Cameron MP Opens New Visitor Centre at Blenheim Palace on 6th July 2012

·         The 11th Duke of Marlborough,
The Right Honourable David Cameron

In the largest development for over 200 years at Blenheim Palace, Friday 6th July 2012 marked the formal opening of a stunning new visitor centre at the World Heritage Site in Oxfordshire. The East Courtyard Visitor Centre was officially opened by The Right Honourable David Cameron, MP for Witney, and Prime Minister.

The new visitor centre is part of a major project that commenced in December 2011 to improve the retail and catering facilities in response to the dramatic increase of visitors to the Palace following the introduction of the ‘free Annual Pass’ ticket offer in 2009. Blenheim Palace now receives an additional 200,000 visitors per year, reaching an annual footfall of over 550,000.

The extensive redevelopment project, led by the Blenheim Estate Construction team, involved the covering in of the former Palace laundry drying yard in the East Courtyard to create a new retail area and visitor reception facilities, and converting the old laundry, which in the recent past has been used as a storage space, into new and expanded toilet facilities.

The East Courtyard Visitor Centre will include a dedicated visitor welcome desk, a new café called The Oxfordshire Pantry, and a stunning new shopping area. The developments took place in line with the appointment of our new catering partner, Searcys, in 2012, bringing new expertise and refreshed offerings to the Oxfordshire Pantry, in addition to a new Champagne bar in the Water Terraces Café, and the new Pleasure Gardens Deli.

The Right Honourable David Cameron said: “There are many reasons to celebrate this year in Great Britain, with the Diamond Jubilee, and the forthcoming London 2012 Olympics. Blenheim Palace is one of the foremost visitor attractions in the UK, and in competitive times it is wonderful to see the palace opening up new spaces for customers to enjoy. Blenheim Palace commemorates victory at great battles and is a vital part of history. I am very glad to celebrate the opening of the new visitor centre which is both a part of history and the future.”

His Grace The 11th Duke of Marlborough comments: “This exciting project is the most significant development since the Palace was originally built. I am delighted that the Prime Minister, David Cameron, who is our local constituency MP, has officially opened this superb new space for the enjoyment of our visitors this year, and for many years to come”.

Blenheim Palace is home to the 11th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The Palace was created a World Heritage Site in 1987, in recognition of its architectural importance.

Set in over 2,000 acres of Capability Brown parkland in the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, Blenheim Palace is a world-renowned visitor attraction and a superb venue for weddings, banqueting and conferences. Blenheim Palace is “Britain’s Greatest Palace”.
For more information visit www.blenheimpalace.com

Harewood House - Macbeth Thursday 19th July 2012 - 7.30pm to 10.00pm

This summer Lord Chamberlain’s Men are back with a bang at Harewood House to kick-start the summer season of outdoor theatre with Shakespeare’s devastating and gripping thriller, Macbeth. The renowned production company, Lord Chamberlain’s Men specialise in open-air productions, and they are adept at providing spellbinding theatre whatever the weather. Whether you bring a picnic or just sit back and relax, you’ll enjoy this drama at its best.

Discounts are available to members for this event or why not visit the website for more information on the ‘7 Weeks of Summer’ special membership and start summer as you mean to go on www.harewood.org/membership
 

The prices for this event are as follows –
Adult: £14, Senior Citizen: £10, Child: £10, Family: £40, Student £10, Harewood Card Adult: £12.60, Harewood Card Senior Citizen: £12.60, Harewood Card Child: £9.00, Harewood Card Family: £36, Harewood Card Student: £9. PLEASE NOTE: A Family Ticket = 2 adults and up to 3 children (aged 4-16). Children under 4 are free.
 

If you can’t make Macbeth, why not come to ...
 

The Twits - Thursday 9th August

Outdoor theatre for children – Roald Dahl at his very best and for many a fresh insight on how to make children laugh.  ‘Come-uppance’ takes on a whole new meaning!

The Sword in the Stone - Thursday 16th August

In the midst of the Medieval Harewood season, a magical outdoor theatre production, perfect for children and adults.  Sword in the Stone by TH White is a modern classic and translates brilliantly onto the stage. 

Black Beauty -
Sunday 26th August

Outdoor theatre as you’ve never experienced before. From the same fold as ‘Freerunners’, this spectacular production will take your breath away – if they move, they take the audience with them  - it’s outdoor theatre in 21st century style set within the heritage of Harewood, so prepare for high calibre outdoor theatre and be mesmerised.


Recently awarded Gold in the Large Visitor Attraction category of the Enjoy England Awards, Harewood is an independent charitable educational trust set up to maintain and develop Harewood, its collections and grounds, for public benefit. Registered Charity No: 517753.  Harewood is the family seat of the Earl and Countess of Harewood and provides a great day out for all the family.  The House, with its outstanding art collections, splendid State Rooms and fascinating ‘Below Stairs’ exhibition, is set in spectacular landscaped grounds, which include formal gardens and gentle woodland walks, renowned Bird Garden, children’s Adventure Playground, a Bhutanese Stupa, waterfall and Himalayan Garden.  Harewood House Trust, Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG info@harewood.org  0113 218 1010.

Simply French 2012 Round Up - Bealulieu

Last weekend, Beaulieu could have been mistaken for one of its French counterparts, as around 200 French vehicles rolled up into the Beaulieu parkland to create a beautiful display in the grounds of the National Motor Museum for its inaugural Simply French event.

Whilst much of the weekend was cold and wet, Sunday turned out to be fine and dry. All manner of French marques and models could be seen at the event, both classic and modern.

The Brabazon Restaurant joined in with the theme of the event, serving up the very best of French cuisine, including French onion soup and croissants.


Event participants could also enjoy all the features of the Beaulieu attraction, including the National Motor Museum and its exciting one-year-only exhibition BOND IN MOTION with 50 original vehicles from the James Bond films, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, Beaulieu Abbey, and Palace House and gardens.

Throughout the day, Beaulieu’s visitors voted for their favourite French vehicles in the People’s Choice Awards. The top 15 vehicles took part in a cavalcade around the attraction, giving visitors ample opportunity to admire the best and brightest French motors.


People's Choice Award Winner Facel Vega
The winner of the People’s Choice Award was a Facel Vega owned by Bob Robinson from London, who has been in possession of the vehicle for 15 years. Bob was presented with a special edition Beaulieu Trophy, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Beaulieu attraction, by The Hon. Ralph Montagu. The runner-up was Mr Kemp from Alton with his blue Panhard, who also received a trophy from Mr Montagu. 
People’s Choice Award Runner-Up Panhard
Simply French is part of a growing calendar of Simply rallies which has expanded to include a wide variety of themes covering many makes and models. All Simply rallies are run and organised by Beaulieu and take place in the grounds of the National Motor Museum. The latest additions to the Simply rallies for 2012 are Simply Japanese on 5th August, Simply 4x4 on 12th August and for this year only, a one-off Simply Bond rally on 29th July. For more information please visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk.
This event was sponsored by specialist motor insurance broker Adrian Flux.

The provisional date for next year’s Simply French rally is Sunday 7th July 2013. Further information will be available from www.beaulieuevents.co.uk nearer the time.

Wednesday 11 July 2012

The German Show 22nd July

On Sunday 22nd July The German Show is returning to Beaulieu for the third year running to celebrate the best of German automotive engineering. This annual event has already proved to be a great success, with families and motoring enthusiasts enjoying a great day out.

All German vehicle owners are welcome to drive their Teutonic motors down to Beaulieu and display their vehicles in the beautiful grounds of the National Motor Museum for the day. It is a fantastic opportunity to admire the stunning motors on display, meet other like-minded enthusiasts and enjoy everything that the Beaulieu attraction has to offer. All German marque vehicles can participate, from BMW, Audi and VW to Porsche and Mercedes; old, new, standard, modified – and everything in between!


In addition to having their vehicles on display, participants can compete for prizes in the Show and Shine events, and a Best In Show award will be presented on the day with the winner receiving a Beaulieu Trophy. There will be trade stands to browse, cars for sale and a number of club displays to view.

Camping pitches are available at this show from 4pm on Saturday 21st June, but all camping must be booked in advance.

Admission tickets for owners of German vehicles taking part in the show include Show & Shine and are priced at Adult £12 and Child £8.50. Tickets including camping are Adult £20 and Child £8.50 and must be booked in advance – all children under 18 must be accompanied by a full paying adult. Advance tickets are available to purchase at www.beaulieushop.co.uk or by telephone on 01590 612888.

Show admission tickets include entry to the whole Beaulieu attraction; the National Motor Museum and BOND IN MOTION – showcasing 50 original vehicles from the James Bond films, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, Beaulieu Abbey, and Palace House and gardens.

Trade stands can be booked for a £25 deposit refunded after the event, and Trunk Trader pitches are priced from £10. To book a stand or pitch telephone 01590 614614.

For more information please visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk

Wednesday 4 July 2012

Digging Up The Dirt at Bucklers Hard

From Saturday 14th July to Sunday 22nd July an archaeological excavation will be taking place at Buckler’s Hard as part of the Festival of British Archaeology 2012.
The dig, managed by Wessex Archaeology in partnership with the New Forest National Park Authority, will focus on exploring World War II activity on the Buckler’s Hard waterfront, and will be undertaken by volunteers under the supervision of the New Forest National Park Authority Archaeologist.

Members of the public are invited to watch and can even join in and try their hand at archaeological excavation. All the necessary equipment will be provided, and there will be professional guidance and onsite training available for those who haven’t done any excavation work before.

It is hoped that the dig will establish the presence of World War II activity through the digging of several trenches, survey work on the concrete slipway and waterfront, finds processing and recording work.

Buckler’s Hard is an 18th century shipbuilding village on the banks of the Beaulieu River, where ships for Nelson’s fleet at Trafalgar were built. It is well-documented that during World War II the village played a strategically important role. Initially, the concrete slipway was installed so Buckler’s Hard could be used as a repair and service centre for motor torpedo boats. However, as the war progressed, the village became the base for ‘Operation Quicksilver’ – a deception plan in which dummy landing craft were built for mooring on rivers and harbours in the south-east to fool the Germans into thinking any invasion would take place in the area around Calais. Segments of ‘Mulberry Harbour’ were also built there, and Buckler’s Hard was used as a major departure point during the D-Day landings.

The excavation activities will run daily from 9am – 4pm, with refreshments available to purchase from the Captain’s Cabin Tearooms and the Yachtsman’s Bar at the Master Builder’s House Hotel. Members of the public who wish to watch or join in with the dig will be required to pay admission to the Buckler’s Hard visitor attraction and can park for free in the Visitor Car Park.

Admission to Buckler’s Hard includes entry to the Maritime Museum, which tells the story of Buckler’s Hard from its early beginnings as a failed sugar port, through its heyday as an 18th century shipbuilding centre, to its role during the war years. For more information, please visit www.bucklershard.co.uk

Monday 2 July 2012

Bike To Beaulieu For Motorcycle Ride-In Sunday 15th July 2012

Bikers everywhere will be kick-starting their engines on Sunday 15th July and heading for the third annual Motorcycle Ride-In Day at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. The event has gone from strength to strength and last year’s ride-in attracted over 4,000 biking enthusiasts.

If you’re a bike owner, get involved and bring your bike down to Beaulieu for the day to display in the attraction’s picturesque parkland. Beaulieu was voted one of ‘Britain’s Top Ten Biking Destinations’ by www.keepbritainbiking.com in 2010. Meet other like-minded enthusiasts, view the stunning range of bikes on display and enjoy everything that the Beaulieu attraction has to offer. An award will be presented to the best bike in show with the winner receiving a coveted Beaulieu Trophy.

Watch a thrilling acrobatic stunt display performed by a professional stunt show team in the Beaulieu Arena.


Browse a number of trade stands selling accessories, clothing, parts and all the latest biking gadgets and snap up some great biking bargains. Or take a stand in the Trunk Traders area for an opportunity to clear out the garage and sell motorcycling wares from the boot of your car or panniers of your bike.

Motorcycle owners can be part of the display in the Beaulieu Arena at a great rider, bike & pillion advance ticket entry of only £6 per person. On the day ticket prices are £10 rider and bike, and £5 pillion. Buy in advance for fast track entry until 13th July by telephone on 01590 612888 or online at www.beaulieushop.co.uk

All other visitors should enter via Visitor Reception at Beaulieu’s standard admission rates.

If you have motorcycle accessories to sell, why not take a stand? Uncovered stand prices start at £60 and Trunk Trader spaces are available to purchase from £15. For more information telephone the Beaulieu Events team on 01590 614614 or email events@beaulieu.co.uk

Admission to the event gives entry to the whole Beaulieu Attraction, which includes the National Motor Museum and its one-year-only exhibition BOND IN MOTION showcasing 50 original vehicles from the James Bond films, On Screen Cars with car stars from the TV and film world, World of Top Gear featuring genuine vehicles from the popular BBC motoring show, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey, and Palace House and gardens, home of the Montagu family since 1538.

For further information about the event please visit www.beaulieumotorcyclerideinday.co.uk


www.treasurehouses.co.uk