Top Gear send Beaulieu its P45

For the first instalment of the 19th series, Jeremy returned to our screens in possibly the strangest mode of motoring transport viewers have yet seen. Following the mass popularity of his video demonstrating the many benefits of the world’s smallest car, the Peel P50, the big man was set a new challenge. His mission? To create and drive a car even smaller than the Peel P50. The result? The brilliant yet bonkers P45 micro car.

A team of talented students from Coventry University’s Automotive Design course were commissioned to work on styling, whilst the aluminium bodywork was hand crafted by the people who make the fabulous Petersen Bentley. Showing extraordinary attention to detail, the P45 was painted with blue twin stripes, paying homage to legendary AC Cobra creator, Carroll Shelby. Fortunately for Shelby, that was where the similarities between the two cars ended.

Ever the professional, Jeremy embarked on an extensive road test of the vehicle, which saw him driving at top speeds of around 30mph on the A3, taking the vehicle onboard a coach to London... to demonstrate how easy it is to get onboard a train, and then driving it through Westfield Shopping Centre and the British Library. Despite its many, many shortcomings, including a microscopic fuel tank, high risk of nose-smashing and inability to get through a car wash without jamming the machinery and soaking the driver’s suit, Jeremy then entered the Dragon’s Den, seeking investment from the dragons for mass production – their verdict was a unanimous and resounding “I’m out”.

Throughout the test drive, Jeremy was singing its praises, describing the car simply as “completely excellent”. Richard and James, however, were a little less enthusiastic, preferring to call it “utterly ridiculous” and “a complete death trap”. The P45 is now on display at Beaulieu’s World of Top Gear exhibition, where visitors can make a thorough inspection of the car and decide for themselves whether it is ingenious... or just plain insane.

The unique motor joins a whole host of cars at Beaulieu created by the Top Gear presenters for some of their most ambitious challenges. Another recent addition is the budget Bond Lotus Excel submarine car from the 50 Years of Bond Cars special and the collection is awaiting the arrival of another new creation from Series 19, due to be unveiled shortly.

The ‘Enormodrome’ recreates the feel of the Top Gear studio with regular features from the programme, including the Cool Wall and the Celebrity ‘Lap Times’ board, kept up to date in line with the show. Visitors can also watch behind-the-scenes footage of the Top Gear production zone and clips of some of the best Top Gear moments.

World of Top Gear can be seen as part of a visit to the whole Beaulieu attraction which also includes the National Motor Museum, BOND IN MOTION, Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey.

Beaulieu is open every day, except Christmas Day, from 10am. For more information telephone 01590 612345 or visit www.beaulieu.co.uk

Beaulieu Announces The Simply Rallies Schedule For 2013

Simply Porche

Simply Alfa Romeo

Simply French

The National Motor Museum, Beaulieu is proud to announce its schedule of Simply Rallies for 2013, with the addition of several new themes.

The Simply Rallies are a group of popular, annual vehicle meets, organised and run by Beaulieu, in the picturesque grounds of the National Motor Museum. Each rally has a theme and owners with a relevant vehicle can take part in one of the rallies, displaying their vehicle in the parkland, meeting other like-minded enthusiasts and enjoying all the delights of the Beaulieu attraction.

The concept for this popular series of rallies began with one event, Simply Ford, in 2010 and, following its success, has now grown into a whole programme of Simplys, each taking on its own distinct character.

Events Manager, Judith Maddox, said: “The Simplys offer a great opportunity for fellow enthusiasts to gather together, to show off their vehicles and enjoy a relaxing day out at the National Motor Museum. 2013 is set to be another exciting year for the Simply Rallies, celebrating a number of significant vehicles and anniversaries.”
The 2013 Simply schedule boasts nine of these fantastic events and sees the return of the five core rallies; Simply Ford – now in its fourth year and kicking off the Simply season, fast-growing Simply Japanese,  

Simply French, Simply Smart and one of the most popular events in the calendar, Simply Classics.

Joining the Simply stable this year are a number of exciting, brand-focused rallies; Simply Porsche, Simply Alfa Romeo, Simply Vauxhall and Simply Land Rover. These Simplys have a great appeal for dedicated car clubs and forums, as well as individual owners.

At each Simply event, participants have the opportunity to win the People’s Choice Award, as chosen by Beaulieu’s day visitors, and to lead a cavalcade through the grounds.

Event tickets are available online at www.beaulieushop.co.uk and on telephone number 01590 612888.
For more information on Beaulieu’s entire 2013 events calendar, please visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk

News from Burghley

Prime time TV show year sparks huge interest in England’s greatest Elizabethan house

Fresh from ‘starring’ in last week’s new TV series from the creator of Downton Abbey, England’s greatest Elizabethan house is all set to offer visitors an event-packed 2013.

Viewers were treated to a fascinating insight into Lincolnshire’s Burghley House as ITV’s ‘Great Houses’ with Julian Fellowes launched a compelling two-part factual series last Tuesday.

Burghley House

The man who has penned the most successful period dramas of recent years has turned his attention to the real life stories and secrets of not only those that owned these grand houses, but also those that served in them.

Thanks to its latest TV starring role Burghley, which sits on the edge of the picturesque Georgian stone town of Stamford, has seen a big spike in visitor interest.

“We were thrilled to be involved with the programme and it has certainly caused a stir, we saw a rise in visitors to our website and we had some lovely comments on our Twitter and FaceBook pages,” said Miranda Rock, House Director.

For the last four centuries Burghley - built for Elizabeth I’s chief minister William Cecil, the first Lord Burghley - has wowed visitors, whether Elizabethan royalty, locals enjoying the parkland or tourists from across the globe.

It now offers a packed family day out with a combined ticket giving access to the stunning history and architecture of the House, and its huge collection of treasures, plus two gardens, including the Tudor-inspired Garden of Surprises.

Burghley House opens again for its 2013 on Saturday 16th March and among highlights lined up for the new season are a brand new outdoor summer Film Festival, expanded Olympic Corridor exhibition featuring Lord Sebastian Coe’s 2012 Olympic torch and new Spooky Tours while Burghley’s famous Horse Trials course will host the Rat Race, the world's biggest assault course (11th & Sunday 12th May).

Added to that line-up will be a new Treasury Exhibition featuring some of Burghley’s remarkable collection of Japanese Lacquer, some rarely seen in the West, and an expanded Burghley Shop, a third bigger and offering new lines.

Although owned and maintained by Burghley House Preservation Trust, the House continues to have a strong connection to William Cecil – and is still very much a family home as well as a popular visitor attraction.

The current House Director is Miranda Rock - a direct descendant of William Cecil - who lives there with her young family, and the new-look Burghley Shop will include a special selection of products personally chosen by each member of the Rock family.

Completing the 2013 line-up will be children’s events in summer and autumn as well as the annual free-to-enter Burghley Fine Food Markets (Easter, summer and Christmas) while during October Autumn Colours will see the State Rooms transformed with floral displays created by local flower societies, offering a new perspective on the house.

For full details of opening times, events and to book online tickets, visit www.burghley.co.uk or telephone 01780 752451.

Beaulieu Is Pleased To Announce Its Events Calendar For 2013

FEBRUARY
16th – 24th February Fun Half-term activities  
T: 01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk

APRIL
29th March  –14th April Easter Extravaganza - Hare-brained Easter Trail and egg-citing treats. T: 01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk

28th April  Boatjumble (Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction) 1000 stands of jumble, new & used boats Watersports and much more!
Tickets: 01590 612888 events@beaulieu.co.uk 

MAY 
4th – 6th May Shipwrightry at Buckler’s Hard (Provisional dates- please check our website) Demonstrations of 18th century shipbuilding T: 01590 616203
 
5th May Simply Ford  (Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
A gathering of Fords of all ages and models, open to clubs & individuals.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

6th May Bank Holiday Monday May Day Cavalcade
A display of vehicles owned by Friends of the National Motor Museum Trust.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

12th May Simply French (Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
A gathering of all French cars of all ages and models, open to clubs & individuals.
T: 01590 614641events@beaulieu.co.uk

18th & 19th May Spring Autojumble and Sodbury Sortout  (Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
1000 stands of motoring parts, literature and accessories, plus 150 cars for sale. Sunday only: Sodbury Sortout.
Tickets: 01590 612888 events@beaulieu.co.uk
 
23rd May – 23rd August  Surrey Sculpture Society
Exhibition of artwork on display in the grounds, all available for purchase.
T: 01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk
 
25th May – 2nd June May Half Term Activities
T: 01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk

25th - 27th May NEW EVENT! Truck Mania
(Provisional dates- please check our website)Truck displays and activities.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

26th May Lancia Motor Club Rally
(Provisional dates- please check our website)
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

JUNE
9th June National Mini Cooper Register Rally
1,000+ cars, Displays, trade stands, Concours.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

16th June Custom & Hot Rod Festival including Custom Motorcycle Show
(Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
Hundreds of Hot-Rod, Custom & American cars & bikes, trade stands & live music.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

23rd June NEW EVENT! Simply Sports
(Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
A gathering of all sports cars, of all makes, models and ages, open to clubs and individuals.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

30th June Simply Italian (Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
A gathering of Italian vehicles of all ages and models, open to clubs & individuals
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

JULY
7th July Austin 750 Rally
Up to 300 750s on display.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

9th & 10th July Shakespeare in Beaulieu Abbey Cloister
(Provisional dates- please check our website)Open-air  performance of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ by The Castle Theatre Co
Tickets: 01590 612888 events@beaulieu.co.uk

JULY
13th July – 1st September Summer Fun
Holiday activities including falconry, games on Palace House lawns, go karts, etc.
T: 01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk

14th July Motorcycle Ride-In Day(Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)Public motorcycle ride-in, trade stands and stunt displays.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

20th July Beaulieu Village Fete
Held in the grounds of Palace House.
T: 01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk

21st July The German Show
(Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)A show for all German marques, including VW and BMW.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

28th July NEW EVENT! Simply Vauxhall(Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
A gathering of all Vauxhalls, of all models and ages, open to clubs and individuals.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk
AUGUST

4th August Simply Japanese(Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
A gathering of Japanese cars of all ages and models, open to clubs and individuals.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

10th August Marie Curie Cancer
Walk A twilight walk around the Beaulieu Estate, in support of Marie Curie Cancer Care.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

11th August Graham Walker Memorial Run
Annual get together for pre-1930 veteran and vintage bikes.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

11th August Simply 4x4 (Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)A gathering of 4x4 vehicles of all ages and models, open to clubs and individuals.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

16th – 18th August T4 Rally
200 T4 vehicles on display within the Beaulieu grounds.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

25th August Simply Classics(Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)Drive-in & display of club & owners’ classic cars
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

26thAugust Bank Holiday Monday Supercar Showdown
Over 50 high performance supercars will be on display and revving up on the Demonstration Run.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk
SEPTEMBER

7th & 8th September International Autojumble(Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
The biggest Autojumble in Europe with over 2000 stands, plus Bonhams Auction.
Tickets: 01590 612888 events@beaulieu.co.uk

27th - 29th September Holiday & Park Homes Show
See the latest static holiday homes.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

OCTOBER
26th October – 3rd November Halloween Hauntings
Half Term spooky activities for all
T: 01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk
 
26th October Fireworks Spectacular (Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)
Celebrate Halloween with a fireworks display set to music.
Tickets: 01590 612888 events@beaulieu.co.uk

NOVEMBER
10th November Simply Smart (Event tickets include entry into the Beaulieu attraction)A gathering of Smart cars of all ages and models, open to clubs and individuals.
T: 01590 614614 events@beaulieu.co.uk

15th November Countryside Education Trust Christmas Fair  
Dozens of stands selling gifts, festive foods & refreshments 10.00am – 2.30pm Palace House
T: 01590 612401
 
DECEMBER
14th December – 5th January 2014 Victorian Christmas at BeaulieuExperience the magic of Christmas past in Palace House
Tel: 01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk

For more information please visit http://www.beaulieu.co.uk/beaulieu-events

COURT JESTER WANTED!

Leeds Castle is looking for a jester. Yes, some lucky individual will be paid to lark about. Paid to juggle and tell jokes. Paid to turn cartwheels.

Leeds Castle

The former Royal Palace in Kent is following in the tradition of the Tudor kings by appointing a member of staff just to make people happy. Applicants must be able to juggle, chat and joke with visitors, teach basic circus skills and perform tricks. An interest in history and ability to speak foreign languages would be welcome.

Costumes will be provided but candidates are expected to have their own equipment for entertaining crowds, corporate and wedding guests. Interviews will be live performances at the castle throughout the half term week in February, when staff and visitors will be invited to choose their favourite.

Chief Executive of Leeds Castle, Victoria Wallace said:  “The principle of appointing a jester is just as it was in Henry VIII’s time. When the Royal court visited the castle, there were about as many people in their retinue as we see visiting on a sunny weekend.

We know we already offer a fantastic day out for families, but having someone whose job it is to make visitors laugh can’t be a bad thing.

We’re leaving the choice of jester to our visitors. We’ll invite all applicants to come and perform from 18th- 22nd February and ask our visitors to decide who they like best. Then the jester will receive his or her official appointment in time for the Easter holidays.”

Interested applicants are invited to send their CVs to the HR manager at jobs@leeds-castle.co.uk. The closing date for applications is the 5 February 2013.

Snow Penguins at Harewood

Harewood Visitors and Team members have been having fun in the snow!
Visit the Treasure House facebook page for lots more beautiful snowy images!

Burghley's dark secrets revealed on new TV programme!

A new peak time TV series from the creator of smash hit show Downton Abbey airing tonight at 9pm on ITV unveils a secret side to England’s greatest Elizabethan house.

‘Great Houses’ with Julian Fellowes is a compelling two-part factual series that takes viewers on a journey to discover the real people behind two of Britain’s most incredible houses, Lincolnshire’s Burghley House and Goodwood House in West Sussex.

The man who has penned the most successful period dramas of recent years turns his attention to the real life stories and secrets of not only those that owned these grand houses, but also those that served in them Burghley, which sits on the edge of the picturesque Georgian stone town of Stamford, provides a few historic surprises – including the shocking murder of a cook.

For the last four centuries Burghley has wowed visitors, whether Elizabethan royalty, locals enjoying the parkland or tourists from across the globe. Built for Elizabeth I’s chief minister William Cecil, Lord Burghley, it now offers a packed family day out with a combined ticket giving access to the stunning history and architecture of the House, and its huge collection of treasures, plus two gardens, including the Tudor-inspired Gardens of Surprise.

The new TV show discovers some new stories from its past too. ‘We so enjoyed working with Julian Fellowes on the making of this programme. His extraordinary knowledge of life upstairs and downstairs in the English country house was invaluable in the discoveries he made about the history of Burghley. Understanding more about those who have lived and worked here has been fascinating and it really brings the story of the house to life,“ said ‘ Miranda Rock, House Director.

Beginning on Tuesday 22 Jan 2013, 9-10pm, the one-hour programmes offer an insight into the most significant moments in British history as well as uncovering untold stories. For Burghley, those darker secrets include the murder of cook Thomas Brinknell. Added Burghley Curator Jon Culverhouse: ‘The makers of Julian Fellowes’s programme went to extraordinary lengths to track down little-known scraps of the history of Burghley, its occupants and those who worked here.”

Burghley House opens for its 2013 season on Saturday 16th March, but although the house might have closed, Burghley’s popular Orangery Restaurant continues to serve up foodie treats this winter from 10am until 4pm Wednesday to Sunday. Visitors are welcome to come and visit the Orangery Restaurant and take a walk through Burghley’s sweeping parkland, free of charge throughout the year. Burghley’s Sculpture Garden is also open free of charge from 11am to 4pm daily through until Friday 15th March 2013 (Garden may be closed for essential maintenance work).

Find out more http://www.burghley.co.uk/

February Fun At Beaulieu! 16th – 24th February 2013

Beaulieu becomes a secret agent training ground once again for Bond-themed February Half Term.
 

Aston Martin DB5 and Rolls-Royce Phantom III

During February half-term week, from 16th – 24th February, come to Beaulieu, home of the world’s largest ever James Bond vehicle exhibition, BOND IN MOTION, and test out your spy skills to see if you have what it takes to be the next 007.

In the National Motor Museum, pit your driving ability against others on a Bond style, eight-lane Scalextric track. Race round in the fastest time possible for the opportunity to win a fantastic Scalextric prize.
Test your knowledge of the world’s most famous special agent, James Bond, with our special half term quiz trail as you enter BOND IN MOTION, which displays 50 original vehicles from the James Bond films. Follow the trail around the exhibition and exercise your code-cracking skills for an opportunity to win a Bond goody bag. See some of the best-loved and most iconic vehicles, including the Lotus Esprit S1, affectionately nicknamed ‘Wet Nellie’ from The Spy Who Loved Me, the Crocodile Submarine from Octopussy and the Aston Martin Vanquish with adaptive camouflage seen in Die Another Day.

Crocodile Mini-Sub from Octopussy

Don’t miss the Secret Army Exhibition, which tells the story of Beaulieu’s history as a training ground for secret agents during WWII. The Special Operations Executive (SOE) trained agents at a number of large country houses scattered across the Beaulieu Estate before they left to work with Resistance groups in occupied Europe.

Learn about the instructors, secret agents and unsung heroes of the SOE, their training and secret missions. See some real-life spy gadgets on display which wouldn’t look out of place in Q’s laboratory, watch a film explaining how the ‘Finishing School’ operated in total secrecy for four years, and make and break your own secret codes using the cipher wheel.

See the National Motor Museum’s collection of over 250 vehicles, from the iconic World Land Speed Record Breaker, Bluebird CN7, to the quirky and instantly recognisable ‘orange on wheels’ Mini Outspan. There are historic racing cars, modern rally cars and the latest F1 machines as well as family cars from every motoring era on show.

Walk into the World of Top Gear, displaying actual vehicles created by presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May for some of their most ambitious challenges on the TV show over the years.The latest creation to join the display is Top Gear’s ‘Bond car on a budget’ Lotus Excel submarine car from the 50 Years of Bond Cars special.

Enter the‘Enormodrome’, which aims to recreate the feel of the Top Gear studio, to see regular features from the programme including the Cool Wall and Celebrity ‘Lap Time’ boards. Plus you can watch an exclusive video presentation from behind-the-scenes at the Top Gear HQ with Jeremy, Richard and James, and clips from the show featuring the cars on display.

Explore the grounds by taking a ride on the high-level Monorail, which runs straight through the roof of the museum, or by hopping on the open-topped replica London bus.

Budding drivers can get in the driving seat on Dipstick’s Driving Circuit in fun mini motorised vehicles or drive remote controlled cars in The Stig Driving Challenge. Younger visitors can get physical on the Mini Motor PlayTrail with its Veteran Bus climbing frame, swings and Little Tykes ride-on-cars.

Visit Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538 and stroll through the beautiful gardens and take a look inside Beaulieu Abbey, a 13th century Cistercian monastery.

Beaulieu is open from 10am – 5pm every day. For more information please visit www.beaulieu.co.uk or telephone 01590 612345.