Chatsworth chosen as ‘UK coach destination of the year’

Emma Handley & Harriet receive UK Coach Award April13

The UK coach industry has awarded Chatsworth its highest accolade by naming the Peak District country estate as ‘UK coach destination of the year’.

At the UK Coach Awards on Saturday 20 April, Chatsworth won the award for ‘Most coach friendly historic attraction’. As one of four category winners for coach-friendliness amongst local authorities, historic attractions, visitor attractions and shopping attractions, Chatsworth was put forward for the overall award.

Chatsworth was chosen as the ‘UK Coach Destination of the Year’ for offering the warmest welcome to coaches and their passengers. The estate’s efforts to accommodate group travel greatly impressed the judges who noted a popular meet and greet service; a high quality welcome for coach drivers; and a high standard of catering amongst the factors in their decision.

Paul Hayes, Visitor Services Manager at Chatsworth said: “We make a lot of effort with coach parties including both a welcome and farewell talk from our team, great group deals, free parking, special tours and a lot more so we’re delighted to have been recognised with this award.

“We don’t forget the drivers either. They are made very welcome in a dedicated rest-room equipped with comfortable seating and television. Every coach driver is given a voucher for food during their visit and they get free admission to the house and garden.”

Held at Alton Towers resort and hosted by BBC Breakfast's Carol Kirkwood, the awards were presented by Malcolm Robson, President of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, in front of more than 300 key players in the coaching and coach tourism industry.

The UK Coach Awards are designed to recognise and reward quality and success in the UK coach and coach tourism industry. Coach companies are asked to nominate attractions, local authorities and industry suppliers as well as service providers and manufacturers.

The awards are owned and run by the UK Coach Awards Limited. This is an independent not-for-dividend company especially set up to own and run the awards for the benefit of the coaching and coach tourism industry.

Water Spectacular a Revelation for May Bank Holiday

Revelation at Chatsworth

Chatsworth is turning up the taps this May bank holiday (4-6 May) for a water spectacular celebrating the return to the garden of Angela Conner’s iconic ‘Revelation’ bronze flower sculpture, gravity-fed from the lakes above the estate.

Made from stainless steel, resin & gold dust, the 5m high and 6.5m wide sculpture has been returned to the Jack Pond following extensive restoration work. Its outer ‘petals’ open and close due to the changing weight of water to reveal the golden globe within, each cycle taking around eight minutes.

Revelation is just one of Chatsworth’s famous gravity-fed water features and during the bank holiday water spectacular the waterworks around the garden will be playing at intervals throughout the day as well as featuring in free garden tours starting at 11.30am and running hourly till until 4.30pm.
Throughout the three days of the bank holiday weekend the Emperor Fountain will be taken up to double its normal height - at around 200ft it sends its plume flying across the Canal Pond; water will come pouring put out of the mouths of stone fish after running over the roof of the Cascade House; hidden water jets coming out the floor of the Cascade House and in the glade around the Willow Tree fountain may surprise the unsuspecting visitor - younger family members are unlikely to be able to resist the opportunity to get a good soaking. The garden tours include a five minute talk at each water feature given by one of Chatsworth’s knowledgeable guides.

As well as the water spectacular, bank holiday weekend at Chatsworth will include:

• Dixieland roving jazz duo performing daily at the house entrance and in the garden.

• Patrick Cooke and his barrel organ performing daily at the farmyard.
  
• Brough shires – operating horse and dray rides along the broad walk on Sunday & Monday only.
  
• Three major art exhibitions - William Turnbull large-scale sculptures, drawings and paintings; Emma Tennant watercolours; Rembrandt landscape drawings.
  
  

Water has always played an important role in the garden at Chatsworth with the famous Cascade, Canal Pond and Willow Tree Fountain dating back to the days of the 1st Duke in the 1680s.

The Emperor Fountain was created in 1843 at the instigation of the 6th Duke who asked his renowned head gardener Sir Joseph Paxton to create a new record-breaking gravity-fed fountain in anticipation of a visit from Czar Nicholas, the Emperor of Russia, who never visited but nonetheless lent his name to the fountain. The Emperor Fountain is powered by a 16in (40cm) iron pipe direct from the Emperor Lake 400ft (122m) above.

The water spectacular is dependent on sufficient water being in the system to feed the additional activity. The lakes which supply the gravity-fed waterworks hold approximately 150 million litres and can be seen from the Stand Wood walks.

Simply French - Sunday 12th May

Beaulieu’s popular Simply French rally will be making a welcome return on Sunday 12th May for its second year in the National Motor Museum’s busy calendar of events, so if you are a French vehicle owner, don a beret, grab a string of onions and drive down to Beaulieu for a day of French-themed fun!

All French vehicle makes and models are welcome, from major manufacturers Renault, Peugeot and Citroen, to the lesser known Aixam and Gordini. Just drive down, display your vehicle in the grounds, and spend the day admiring other French vehicles, meeting like-minded enthusiasts and enjoying all the delights of the Beaulieu attraction.

This year’s show sponsor, Citroën, will be a welcome addition to the event, displaying a selection of its beautiful models in a bourgeois café scene set up in the parkland, complimented by traditional French music.

As with all Beaulieu’s Simply Rallies, visitors to Beaulieu on the day will be invited to vote for their favourite French vehicle in the People’s Choice Awards. The winning vehicle owner will be presented with a prized Beaulieu Trophy and will be given the opportunity to lead a cavalcade around the grounds of the attraction.

Visitors to the event can also enjoy all the features of the Beaulieu attraction, including the National Motor Museum and its exciting BOND IN MOTION exhibition (see if you can spot the quirky little Citroën 2CV from FOR YOUR EYES ONLY), World of Top Gear, Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House, the gardens, and unlimited rides on the high-level Monorail and open-topped bus.

For entrants arriving on the 12th May in their French vehicles and joining the event on the Beaulieu parkland, entry prices are adult £10 and child £5. Please telephone 01590 612888 or visit www.beaulieushop.co.uk to book advance tickets. For all trade stand enquiries, telephone 01590 614614. All other visitors should enter Beaulieu via the main Reception at normal Beaulieu attraction admission prices.

Entry into the Beaulieu parkland in your French vehicle is from 9.30am. As France is renowned for its fine cuisine, the Brabazon Restaurant will be serving refreshments inspired by the country, including coffee and croissants.

Simply French 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.

The latest additions to the Simply schedule for 2013 are Simply Porsche on 23rd June, Simply Alfa Romeo on 30th June, Simply Vauxhall on 28th July and Simply Land Rover on 11th August.

Visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk for more information.

Living Crafts 2013 A craft experience not to be missed!

Living Crafts is a great opportunity to buy direct from specially selected British designer-makers and is taking place at Hatfield House, Hertfordshire from 9th – 12th May. Visitors to the show will also be able to enjoy an exhibition of contemporary sculptures from the Royal Academy, staged in the award-winning West Garden. From innovative studio glass, textiles and cutting edge jewellery design to bodging, stickdressing and weaving, Living Crafts is the largest consumer craft event of its kind in Europe.

Living Crafts is well established with an enviable reputation for the quality and originality of work, attracting hundreds of designer-makers and thousands of visitors from across the country. Celebrating and promoting a wide range of handmade, contemporary and traditional British craft, the show continues to evolve. The Craft&Design Month Tent will be hosting established makers, including a textile artist, enameller, weaver and an historical jewellery maker, who will all be demonstrating their skills, while fresh talent will be showcasing contemporary design in the Emerging Designers Pavilion. Local and national craft organisations will also be sharing their expertise with informative displays and demonstrations.

Event highlights include The Print Centre, The Sculpture School, a Sculpture Park, and an Art Centre with art materials and lectures, together with host of demonstrations and popular masterclasses led by specialist makers. There are plenty of opportunities for visitors to ‘have a go’ and new workshops feature willow weaving, faux woodgrain and marbling, textile block printing and acrylic painting. Enjoy the vibrant and creative atmosphere with daily entertainment provided by jazz and brass bands and traditional dancing displays.

Entry to the world famous gardens and Old Palace, childhood home of Queen Elizabeth 1, is included in the ticket cost and Hatfield House itself may be visited for a small additional charge. These are only a stroll away through the magnificent parkland.

Be inspired by the passion and skill on show at Living Crafts.

Make A Statement With Corporate Events At The Treasure Houses Of England

Beaulieu

A captivating consortium of ten of the country’s finest homes, palaces and castles – the Treasure Houses of England are an inspired and impressive venue for all types of corporate event from teambuilding to entertainment and networking to conferences.

Situated in the heart of the New Forest, Beaulieu offers a versatile venue with something to suit everyone such as the stunning Palace House, incredible Domus in the 13th Century Beaulieu Abbey and the world famous National Motor Museum – the perfect way to fuse business with pleasure to crowd-pleasing effect.  The purpose-built Lecture Theatre seats up to 220 guests.

Set in 2,000 acres of landscaped ‘Capability’ Brown gardens, Blenheim Palace provides a spectacular setting for business and teambuilding events.  Satisfying smaller group sizes with the intimate Campaign Rooms or staging bigger events at The Orangery - an elegant venue that can cater for up to 320 delegates theatre-style, and the magnificent Long Library inside the Palace, which can accommodate grand events for 500 guests.

Burghley sits amongst picturesque parkland that makes the perfect setting for a marquee, while the Elizabethan house has three function rooms that can cater from 28-80 via boardroom or theatre type settings.

With over 300 years’ experience of hosting celebrations and grand occasions, Castle Howard will delight and impress the most discerning of guests - even Queen Victoria was amused here in 1850! Times and tastes may change, but Castle Howard remains Yorkshire’s most stunning venue for corporate hospitality and events.

Chatsworth House

Chatsworth’s magnificent setting, excellent catering and fully equipped meeting rooms combine to create an inspiring location for any corporate event from activity team building days in the park, product launches, exhibitions, meetings and even champagne receptions and fine dining in the restaurant.

Historic host to Kings and Queens and Heads of State, Harewood houses state-of-the-art conference and hospitality facilities in the unique setting of the 18th century Courtyard Suites and the stylish Pavilion. Gracing the north lawn with wonderful views of the House, the Pavilion can seat up to 1,000 people, making it perfect for large conferences and entertainment events.

Whether you are planning a company away day, a product launch or any corporate function, Hatfield House is the perfect private venue for enterprising businesses. The Riding School offers contemporary interiors and top facilities, while the Old Palace provides a magnificent and atmospheric venue for more grand-scale events.

Pick from a plethora of spellbinding settings on the Holkham Estate, such as the splendour of the Palladian Hall or the idyllic Temple - a charming and characterful shooting lodge. Alternatively, consider the secluded 18th century Walled Gardens, or enjoy the scenic beauty of the rolling parkland surrounding Holkham Hall.

Leeds Castle

Combining a medieval castle, royal palace and an elegant country retreat - Leeds Castle ensures all the peace, privacy and security required for any corporate event, including a brand new location, the Maiden’s Tower.  Set on a moated island in the heart of Kent, the castle has played legendary host to Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin, Nöel Coward and David Niven, and even to secret political talks involving Churchill and General Montgomery
during World War II.

From small meetings to the most lavish of exhibitions and conferences, Woburn Abbey’s exceptional venues are sure to exceed every expectation by ensuring stellar service and an unforgettable experience. Select from stunning venues like the Sculpture Gallery, the unique Safari Lodge or the estate’s hotel, The Inn at Woburn, for flexible and tailor made event solutions.

www.treasurehouses.co.uk

Shipwrightry At Buckler’s Hard 4th – 6th May 2013

Fashioning a medieval futtock

Fashioning parts of a keel from a Beaulieu oak

Students at work

Over the Bank Holiday weekend, 4th – 6th May, archaeology students from the University of Southampton will take a step back in time to the days of Britain’s most famous Royal Navy flag officer, Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson.  They will spend the weekend at the historic village of Buckler’s Hard, where ships for Nelson’s Trafalgar fleet were built, getting hands-on experience of using tools and shipbuilding techniques from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Visitors can watch as the students convert oak timbers from the Beaulieu Estate, into the main components of the framework of a ship, discovering the challenges faced by shipbuilders of the time, and how they overcame them.

Living History Guides will be on hand to tell visitors what life was like, living and working in the village during its shipbuilding years.

The Maritime Museum, this year celebrating its 50th anniversary, reveals the story of this unique village, bringing to life the characters that lived here at the time of Henry Adams, the Master Shipbuilder at Buckler’s Hard between 1744 and 1805. New displays explore smuggling and village life at Buckler’s Hard.

Following the Woodland Walk, children can learn how the local timber at Buckler’s Hard was used to construct ships in the 18th & 19th centuries and the whole family can enjoy a tranquil River Cruise, which transports you on a journey along the river with a commentary revealing the history of the Beaulieu River and the abundant wildlife that inhabits its riverbanks.
Buckler’s Hard is a place for relaxation, as well as exploration. The Captain’s Cabin Tea Rooms serves a range of light refreshments and drinks, including delicious cream teas, throughout the day.  The Master Builder’s House Hotel, situated at the bottom of the street, offers a bar and restaurant with river views.

Buckler’s Hard is open every day from 10am.
For more information visit www.bucklershard.co.uk

Beaulieu set to welcome Campbell's K3 Bluebird to Boatjumble

It’s not long to go now until crowds will be flooding into Beaulieu for the annual Boatjumble on Sunday 28^thApril 2013, and as a special, last-minute surprise, Beaulieu can now announce that Sir Malcolm Campbell’s famous world water speed record breaker, the K3 Bluebird, will be a star attraction at the event.

Following his success breaking the land speed record in July 1964 in the Bluebird CN7, currently on display in the National Motor Museum, Sir Malcolm Campbell turned his focus to the world water speed record. He commissioned the K3 Bluebird, a hydroplane powerboat, and on the 1^st September 1937, set a new world record of 126.33mph on the waters of Lake Maggiore, Italy. Later, he twice broke his own record in the K3, with his final world record, set on Switzerland’s Lake Hallwill in 1938, at 130.93mph. After this, the craft was retired and since 1989 has been undergoing a long restoration, taken on by the K3 Bluebird Project.

Not only will Boatjumble visitors be able to see the K3 Bluebird, it is also hoped she will be started up during the day, to demonstrate the immense power of her incredible engine.

Another highlight of this year’s event will be The Classic Motor Boat Association’s display of members’ classic boats and antique outboard engines. Members will be on hand throughout the day to talk to visitors about their display and the activities of the Association, whose aim it is to promote affordable preservation and enjoyment of classic runabouts, racing boats and engines through active rallies around the UK.

If you’re interested in boat restoration, make sure you stop by the stand of show sponsors, Practical Boat Owner Magazine. The team will be working on their newly-painted PBO Project Boat Hantu Biru, and will be on the look-out for bargains to help get their Snapdragon 23 seaworthy.

All the popular elements of the Boatjumble will be back in force this year. The street-style BoatMall is the place to go to see new boats from leading manufacturers and brokerages, plus all the latest products. Visitors can view trailerable boats up-close, try on clothing and tinker with up-to-the-minute technology.

Head over to the BoatMart if you’re in the market for a used boat. The wide selection on offer ranges from classics to nearly new, and those in need of restoration.

The Trunk Traders area will also be making a welcome return, giving amateur jumblers the opportunity to clear out their lockers, sheds and garages by selling their surplus sailing items from the boot of their car. It also gives keen buyers the chance to snap up some boating bargains, so get there early, as trading is brisk!

Younger visitors can keep themselves entertained with some water-based activities, including Bubble of Fun, where you can walk on water in giant transparent balls, Boats of Fun and giant nautical-themed slides.

Event visitors can also enjoy all the delights of the Beaulieu attraction, including the National Motor Museum, World of Top Gear, Beaulieu Abbey, Palace House and the picturesque gardens.

Don’t miss the museum’s exhibition, BOND IN MOTION – its run now extended for a further year. See some of James Bond’s most iconic modes of transport, including the Glastron GT-150 which performed a jaw-dropping 85ft jump over a levy in LIVE AND LET DIE, the rather quirky Crocodile Submarine fromOCTOPUSSY and one of the world’s earliest prototype jet-skis, the Wetbike from THE SPY WHO LOVED ME.

On-the-day, all-inclusive admission tickets are priced at £9.70 per adult and £7.50 per child. Advance tickets are available at a discounted rate online at www.beaulieushop.co.uk or on Ticket Line 01590 612888.

For those visitors arriving by public transport, there will be free shuttle buses running between 8am and 6pm from Buckler’s Hard Marina, the Lymington Isle of Wight Ferry Terminal and Brockenhurst train station.

Stand spaces are still available, with Boatjumble stand prices starting at £55; BoatMart and Trunk Trader spaces are priced at £30. To make a stand, Trunk Trader or BoatMart space booking please contact the Events Department by email at events@beaulieu.co.uk or on telephone number 01590 614614.

BoatMall and BoatMart are open to visitors from 9am, with the Boatjumble opening at 10am. The show closes at 5pm.

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

The Top Ten Places To Enjoy Afternoon Tea - Treasure Houses of England

Afternoon Tea, Duchess' Tea Room
Woburn Abbey

A fittingly fine way to enjoy the quintessentially English custom of afternoon tea, visit the Treasure Houses of England’s consortium of historic homes, palaces and castles to indulge in this traditional pastime in spectacular surrounds and inimitable stately style.

Woburn Abbey – The English tradition of Afternoon Tea is said to have been started around 1840 by Duchess Anna Maria, wife of the 7th Duke of Bedford, who entertained her friends in the Blue Drawing Room at Woburn Abbey. Visitors today can experience Afternoon Tea at Woburn at the Duchess’ Tea Room or at the Estate’s hotel The Inn at Woburn (pre-booking required).
 

Afternoon Tea at Burghley

Burghley House – Have tea in ‘Capability’ Brown’s Orangery restaurant overlooking the topiary in the South Gardens. Homemade scones, jam and clotted cream can be enjoyed in the peaceful and romantic Rose Garden.

Beaulieu – Enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea with a wide selection of cakes and pastries all baked in-house in the Brabazon Coffee Shop and Restaurant.  Some produce comes from Lord Montagu’s own Victorian Kitchen garden; beetroot is transformed into a delicious moist cake and plums made into jam, to eat on scones with lashings of Dorset clotted cream.

Hatfield House – Take tea to new and dizzy heights with Hatfield’s Helicopter Discovery Tour where you can escape on an eight mile helicopter pleasure flight over the estate to snatch spectacular aerial views of the stunning architecture of the house, rounded off by a delicious home made cream tea at the house.

Castle Howard Afternoon Tea

Castle Howard – Enjoy an afternoon treat at Castle Howard in either the bistro style Courtyard Cafe or the more traditional
Fitzroy Room.  On offer are seasonal menus prepared by their incredible chefs that include a generous selection of freshly made sandwiches, salads and heavenly homemade cakes.

Chatsworth – Enjoy a British tradition at Chatsworth with an afternoon tea in the Cavendish Rooms restaurant in the 18th century Stables, designed by the famous architect James Paine.  Afternoon teas, comprising homemade dainty sandwiches, freshly baked cakes and a wide choice of teas are available throughout the day, and are pre-bookable online.

Leeds Castle Afternoon Tea

Leeds Castle – Enjoy an afternoon treat with a cream tea in the 17th Century oak-beamed Fairfax Hall or outside in the sunshine on the Terrace overlooking the castle.  There is an excellent choice of freshly prepared hot and cold dishes on offer, along with cakes and other sweet treats, all of which can be enjoyed in a rustic farmhouse kitchen style setting featuring oak and wrought iron finishes.

Harewood House – Taste the delights of afternoon tea in one of Harewood’s renowned cafés. The Grade 1 listed Courtyard
Café, edged by colonnades, offers superb al fresco and covered facilities perfect for families, while The Terrace Café - voted one of the best places to have afternoon tea by Gardener’s World Magazine readers in 2010 - offers stunning views over the lake and Capability Brown landscape.  Using locally sourced ingredients, much from Harewood’s own Walled Garden, both cafes provide a spectacular setting to relax and unwind.

Holkham Hall – The Holkham Estate has three cafés all offering afternoon tea.  As part of a visit to Holkham Hall, you will discover the Stables Café. The Rose Garden Café is in the Ancient House, the oldest domestic building in Holkham Village. Finally there’s the Beach Café just a stone’s throw from the beach at Wells-next-the-Sea.  Whichever you opt for you can be sure to find plenty of mouth-watering homemade treats to indulge in.

Blenheim Palace - Blenheim Palace is the perfect place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the elegant surroundings only a palace could provide.  Tea is served in the palace’s Indian Room, or Champagne Bar, overlooking the beautiful fountains on the Water Terraces for a truly inspired setting.  Choose from a delectable selection of menus including a
traditional Blenheim Tea, a Churchill Champagne Tea or a luxury Winston Churchill Premier Tea, inspired by the great leader it includes his favourite tipple Pol Roger Brut Reserve NV.

The Treasure Houses of England are 10 of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles in England today.

Members are Beaulieu, Blenheim Palace, Burghley, Castle Howard, Chatsworth, Harewood, Hatfield House, Holkham Hall, Leeds Castle and Woburn Abbey.

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

Simply Ford at Beaulieu Sunday 5th May

Ford fans everywhere will be making a beeline for Beaulieu on Sunday 5th May for the annual Simply Ford rally in the grounds of the National Motor Museum. If you own a Ford, whether it is an early, custom or modern model, bring it to Beaulieu on the day, join the display in the parkland and enjoy a fantastic day out.

Ford Supervan 3

On the Beaulieu Arena, there will be a celebration of the Ford Rallye Sport (RS) badge, with a display of the sportiest cars Ford has manufactured over the years.

Show regulars, the Ford Heritage Collection, will be bringing along a selection of its stunning vehicles, including an Escort Cosworth, Focus MkII RS, Ford GT supercar and Sierra Sapphire Cosworth 4x4.

Also on display will be the Ford Supervan 3.  Built on a Ford C100 race car chassis and originally powered by a mid-mounted Ford-Cosworth 650bhp ‘HB’ F1 engine, Supervan 3 first saw the light of day in 1995 when it was displayed at the motor show in Birmingham.  Its top speed is estimated at around 150mph, with acceleration that would not disgrace many sports supercars.



The Hendy Ford dealership will also be present, displaying a variety of vehicles from its new Ford range.

On the day, a number of vehicles from the whole Ford gathering will be chosen to join a Simply Ford cavalcade around the attraction, and one of these selected cars will be the lucky winner of the People’s Choice Award and a Beaulieu Trophy.As well as being a great opportunity to view hundreds of Ford vehicles and meet up with other like-minded enthusiasts, visitors to the event can also browse a number of trade stands selling Ford-related parts and accessories.

For entrants arriving on the 5th May in their Ford and joining the event on the Beaulieu parkland, entry prices are adult £10 and child £5. Please telephone 01590 612888 or visit www.beaulieushop.co.uk to book advance tickets. For all Ford-related trade stand enquiries, telephone 01590 614614. All other visitors should enter Beaulieu via the main Reception at normal Beaulieu attraction admission prices.

Entry into the Beaulieu parkland with your Ford is from 9am and catering will be available.

Admission to the event includes entry to the whole Beaulieu attraction; the National Motor Museum and its exciting BOND IN MOTION exhibition showcasing 50 original James Bond vehicles, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, Beaulieu Abbey, and Palace House and gardens.

Four years ago Simply Ford was the first ever Simply rally to take place at the Beaulieu attraction and proved to be incredibly popular. Now, four years on, it is set to be as successful as ever and is part of the growing calendar of Simply events, which has rapidly expanded to include a wide variety of themes covering many makes and models. The latest additions to the Simply rallies for 2013 are Simply Porsche on 23rd June, Simply Alfa Romeo on 30th June, Simply Vauxhall on 28th July and Simply Land Rover on 11th August.

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

Disney classics, a royal night and an Oscar winning finale bring summer movie magic to England's greatest Elizabethan house

Hollywood blockbusters, animated classics, royal extravaganzas and a blast of Bond offer visitors to Lincolnshire’s Burghley House a feast of film this summer set against a stunning backdrop.

Four days of movie magic will transform Burghley’s picturesque and private South Gardens into a spectacular outdoor cinema during August.

Film will take centre stage from the 1st-4th August when a big screen is set up against the backdrop of the magnificent Elizabethan palace overlooking the beautiful South Gardens, Capability Brown lake and the sweeping parkland beyond.

No stranger to the world of movies, the House was used as a key filming location for Keira Knightley’s  ‘Pride and Prejudice’ in 2005 as well as playing a role in ‘Elizabeth the Golden Age’ and ‘The Da Vinci Code’.

Barbecues and popcorn, Pimms and picnics will be the order of the day with something for the whole family including children’s classics ‘Toy Story 3’ and ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ to Bond blockbuster ‘Skyfall’ and Oscar-winning musical ‘Les Miserables’.

Early bird buyers will be able to take advantage of specially priced tickets available online now from Burghley’s website - saving £4 per ticket compared to the on-the-day price.

Tickets will be available that allow access to the South Gardens for the two family films showing each day, while for a night at the movies an evening ticket will cover two more films more geared to adult audiences. Each day gates will open for the daytime session at 10.30am and close at 4.30pm before re-opening for the evening session at 5.30pm.

Launching Burghley’s Film Festival on Thursday 1st August will be great children's classics followed by a night of royal entertainment. Adding a touch of Disney magic to England’s greatest Elizabethan House will be Aladdin (U) and Toy Story 3 (U) after which filmgoers can enjoy a night of royalty with The Duchess (12A) and The Kings Speech (12A).

For Film Festival Friday on 2nd August there will be more family favourites while the evening will belong to Bond… James Bond.

During the day, settle back to enjoy Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (U) and Disney smash hit Finding Nemo (U) and for a glamorous evening get out your best James Bond attire and prepare to be shaken and stirred by Casino Royale (12) along with the highly acclaimed 50th anniversary movie Skyfall (12A).

Music takes pride of place on Saturday 3rd August when the evening will offer the ultimate cinema party atmosphere with sing-a-long greats Grease (PG) and The Rocky Horror Picture Show (12A) while the children can come in costume for the daytime shows of Tangled (PG) and Shrek (U).

Burghley’s movie bonanza comes to a rousing finale with Film Festival Sunday on the 4th August, which kicks-off with amazing animal animations… and ends with the biggest British movie of the year. Daytime entertainment will be The Jungle Book (U) and The Lion King (U) while who could ask for a grander location to see Oscar-winning musical Les Miserables (12A) in the evening?

Tickets are priced at £6 for adults until 30th June; £8 until 31st July and £10 on the gates. Child tickets are priced at £4. For full details of opening times and to book online tickets, visit www.burghley.co.uk

About Burghley
Burghley, near Stamford in Lincolnshire, has been the home of the Cecil Family for over 400 years and is England’s greatest Elizabethan House. Burghley is owned and maintained by Burghley House Preservation Trust, which looks after a huge collection of great works of art, including one of the most important private collections of 17th century Italian paintings, the earliest inventoried collection of Japanese ceramics in the West, exceptional 18th century furniture and wood carvings by Grinling Gibbons and his followers. The Trust also maintains a 13,000-acre estate including residential, commercial and agricultural lettings, woodland and Burghley Park, which is open daily at no charge.

The House is open from Saturday 16th March to Sunday 3rd November 2013 daily (except Fridays) from 11am to 5pm (last admission 4.30pm). Admission: House and The Gardens of Surprise - adults £12.70; children (3–15 years) £6.50; seniors/students £11.50; family (2 adults & 2 children) £34.

Set Sail For Beaulieu Boatjumble Sunday 28th April 2013

Beaulieu’s annual Boatjumble, held in the grounds of the National Motor Museum, is this year taking place on 28th April. Now in its 36th year, the Boatjumble is the largest outdoor sale of boating items in Europe, so come along and hook some nautical bargains.

Beaulieu’s Events Manager, Judith Maddox, said: ”We were very disappointed to have to cancel the Boatjumble last year because of adverse weather conditions but were very encouraged by the positive response from stallholders, many of whom carried their stand booking forward to this year.  New bookings are now coming in well.

“The new street-style Boat Mall, introduced in 2011 proved very popular and was fully booked for 2012 so we anticipate strong bookings again for this year. Trunk Traders also goes from strength to strength with a larger area devoted to this feature for 2013.”

Thousands of new and used marine and boating items at competitive prices, spread over 1,000 stands, make for an unmissable event. With big name chandleries offering show prices, plus accessories, clothing, gadgets and literature, you can be sure of picking up some real treasures.

In the BoatMall, see new boats from leading manufacturers and brokerages plus all the latest products. See the trailerable boats up-close, try on clothing and tinker with up-to-the minute technology.

If you are looking for a used boat, head for the BoatMart which brings together a wide range of used boats, from classics to nearly new and those in need of restoration, which can be viewed before you buy.

In the enlarged Trunk Traders area, amateur jumblers who have been   clearing out their lockers, sheds and garages can sell their surplus second-hand sailing items from the boot of their car. Trading is brisk, so get there early.
Don’t miss a display by The Classic Motor Boat Association of members’ classic boats and antique outboard engines.  Members will also be on hand to talk to visitors about the activities of the Association, whose aim is to promote affordable preservation and enjoyment of classic runabouts, racing boats and engines through active rallies around the UK.

Younger visitors can also enjoy Bubble of Fun, an activity allowing you to walk on water in giant transparent balls, as well as Boats of Fun and giant nautical themed slides.

Visitors to the event will be able to enjoy all the Beaulieu attractions including the National Motor Museum’s exciting exhibition, BOND IN MOTION, with its run now extended for a further year. The exhibition showcases 50 original vehicles from the James Bond films, including the Glastron GT-150 which performed a jaw-dropping jump over an 85ft levy in Live And Let Die, and the world’s very first Wetbike from The Spy Who Loved Me.

Visitors can also see On Screen Cars, World of Top Gear, Beaulieu Abbey, and Palace House and gardens at the one, on-the-day, inclusive price of £9.70 for adults and £7.50 for children. Advance tickets are available to purchase at an even lower price, by telephone on 01590 612888 and will shortly be available online at www.beaulieushop.co.uk
Free shuttle buses will be running from Buckler’s Hard Marina, Lymington Isle of Wight Ferry terminal and Brockenhurst Station.

Stand prices start at £55 with BoatMart and Trunk Traders spaces at £30. To book a stand, Trunk Trader or BoatMart space call the Events Department on 01590 614614, fax 01590 614615 or email events@beaulieu.co.uk.

BoatJumble is supported by Practical Boat Owner Magazine.

BoatMall and BoatMart are open to visitors at 9am and Boatjumble at 10am.  The show closes at 5pm.

Bucklers Hard 50th Anniversary

Over the weekend of the 6^th & 7^th April KIDS GO FREE* at Buckler’s Hard, the 18^th century shipbuilding village on the banks of the Beaulieu River, where ships for Nelson’s fleet at Trafalgar were built.

In celebration of the 50^th anniversary of the opening of the Maritime Museum in 1964, KIDS GO FREE* as the village comes alive with fun activities including Victorian games and Fun Trails with lots of prizes to be won. Learn about life in the village from Living History characters, hear rousing sea shanties from the strolling Shantymen and watch traditional craft demonstrations.

Visit the refurbished Maritime Museum which reveals the story of this unique village at the time of Henry Adams, the Master Shipbuilder at Buckler’s Hard in the 18^th century when over 50 ships were built for the British Navy.  New displays in the museum explore Smuggling and Village Life at Buckler’s Hard. Additional displays include the SS Persia Exhibition and a film telling the story of the role played by Buckler’s Hard during WWII.

Historic displays in the Labourer’s and Shipwright’s cottages show how the village would have looked in the early 1800s and in the New Inn, you can hear gossip from residents of the time.

On display at the edge of the Beaulieu River you can also see the Indigenous boat used by Daniel Craig in the James Bond film, QUANTUM OF SOLACE.

As you follow the nearby Woodland Walk you will discover how the local timber at Buckler’s Hard was used in the 18^th and 19^th centuries to construct ships for the British Navy.  

You can take a River Cruise (at a small extra charge) which transports you on a tranquil journey along the River, revealing the abundant wildlife that inhabits its banks.

Don’t forget to visit the Captain’s Cabin Tea Rooms which serves a range of light refreshments and drinks, including delicious cream teas, throughout the day.

*To claim your KIDS GO FREE admission on the weekend of 6^th/7^th April 2013 visit:http://www.bucklershard.co.uk/familyfun T&Cs apply.

Buckler's Hard Maritime Museum Celebrates 50 Years

Buckler's Hard Street

Mary Montagu-Scott presenting picture to
Lord Ivar Mountbatten

On the 6th April, 1963, Admiral of the Fleet, Earl Mountbatten of Burma sailed up the Beaulieu River with Lord and Lady Montagu to perform the opening ceremony of the newly created Buckler’s Hard Maritime Museum. On the 50th anniversary of that opening, Earl Mountbatten’s great-nephew, Lord Ivar Mountbatten performed a re-dedication of the museum.

Lord Mountbatten echoed the words of his great uncle from the 1963 opening who on that occasion had said: “Buckler’s Hard is famous the world over as a hamlet, unchanged since the 18th century, that has made an invaluable contribution to the history of our country in its production of over 50 warships for the British Navy, three of which took part in the Battle of Trafalgar including Admiral Lord Nelson’s favourite, Agamemnon.”

Mary Montagu-Scott, who has project managed the recent refurbishment of the Maritime Museum, presented Lord Mountbatten with a limited edition David Bell print of Agamemnon.

Over 200 local accommodation providers attended the event along with special guests including former residents of the village.  A new display in the Maritime Museum chronicles life in this unique village during the1920s and 30s and the families who lived in its picturesque cottages.

When Lord Montagu opened the Maritime Museum in 1963, it was “to serve as a memorial to the men of Buckler’s Hard who built men-of-war”. The museum was housed in what had been the New Inn and displayed a collection of models, prints and documents gathered by his father, John Montagu, some forty years earlier.  These were supplemented by loans and gifts, including some original documents belonging to Master Builder, Henry Adams, donated by one of his descendants.

Fifty years since its opening, the Buckler’s Hard Maritime Museum has been updated with new displays including the important role played by the village during WWII and its involvement in the D-Day landings, while the recreated interiors of a labourer’s and shipwright’s cottages and the New Inn show how the village would have looked in the early 1800s.
The Beaulieu River was believed to be a major landing point for smuggled goods from the late 18th century with the cottage that is now the Chapel of St Mary’s a centre of operations. A viewing window in the floor beside the altar reveals a recently discovered cellar below, probably used as a store for smuggled contraband. Another new display in the museum tells this fascinating story along with artefacts recovered during excavations of the cellar.

Also joining the 50th anniversary celebrations was Gipsy Moth IV, the yacht in which Sir Francis Chichester became the first person to complete a true solo circumnavigation of the earth in 1967. Trials for the voyage took place on the Beaulieu River and after the completion of the record breaking voyage Sir Francis returned to receive the Freedom of the River.

On the 6th and 7th April, in celebration of the 50th anniversary, KIDS GO FREE* at Buckler’s Hard, as the village comes alive with fun activities including Victorian games, a fun quiz trail with lots of prizes to be won and swashbuckling pirate tales. Learn about village life from Living History characters, hear rousing sea shanties from the strolling Shantymen and watch traditional craft demonstrations.

*To claim KIDS GO FREE admission on the 6th & 7th April 2013, visit: www.bucklershard.co.uk/familyfun T&Cs apply.