Beaulieu revives the golden age of steam
2010 at Beaulieu sees a reprise of the steam events that were so popular during the early years of the Beaulieu attraction. Beaulieu is now delighted to announce a brand new show on their calendar, the Beaulieu Steam Revival, taking place in the grounds of the National Motor Museum on the 5th and 6th June 2010.
The Montagu family has had a long association with ‘steam’. John Montagu, father of the present Lord Montagu, trained at the famous Nine Elms railway works and, as a qualified engine driver, occasionally took charge of trains between Waterloo and Bournemouth. He also drove trains with his friend Major Holder who built a miniature railway on the estate.
The first traction engine rally at Beaulieu took place in 1961, just before the last of the Estate’s famous jazz festivals was staged. The Whitsun event was so popular that it soon spawned other steam rallies including the autumn ‘Steam Happening’ and steam boat gatherings on the Beaulieu River.
The Hon Ralph Montagu, who has inherited his grandfather’s love of steam engines, said: “I was just 3 months old when Beaulieu’s first traction engine rally took place and I was given a ride on one of the engines. Steam has been in my blood ever since and I am delighted that the smell of steam will once again be in the air at Beaulieu.”
Among the major attractions on display at the Steam Revival will be the magnificent Showman’s Engines that could be widely seen at the Fairgrounds of the Victorian era. The show will have its own Victorian Fairground with traditional steam driven rides including Gallopers and Speedway, as well as strolling players and side shows, creating the atmosphere of a Victorian travelling fair.
During the Victorian age, steam was not used just for transportation and pleasure; it had a role to play in the working lives of the population. Show visitors will see a wide variety of live demonstrations, boiler making and engine restoration in the Foundry and Blacksmith Shop, and in the Saw Mill there will be thatching and timber working, using wood from the Beaulieu Estate. There will also be trailer and steam engine rides for everyone to enjoy.
The Beaulieu Steam Revival can be enjoyed as part of a visit to the whole Beaulieu attraction, including the National Motor Museum and World of Top Gear, Palace House and 13th century Beaulieu Abbey. For more information telephone 01590 612345 or visit beaulieuevents.co.uk
