Beaulieu has been hosting motoring events in the parkland surrounding the National Motor Museum in Brockenhurst, UK, since 1952 when it held the first veteran car rally. Every year it now welcomes more than 100,000 visitors to its events that happen from April through to November.
The coronavirus pandemic halted the 2020 show when the attraction had to close its doors to visitors in March. The Spring Autojumble was canceled in May, and subsequent events have been delayed while awaiting Government guidance about mass gatherings.
During the last few weeks, it has become even more apparent with social distancing requirements and the quarantine on international travel that holding some of the larger events at Beaulieu is not going to be very possible this year.
It has therefore confirmed on Monday that their decision to cancel three of its major events, the Hot Rod & Custom Show, the Beaulieu Supercar Weekend, and the International Autojumble. Exhibitors, participants, and ticket holders are being sent a notice and given the option to roll their bookings into 2021 or get a refund.
Whilst the popular International Autojumble cannot take place in its current format, Beaulieu is hoping it may be able to host a simpler version of the event if there is demand, to enable motoring enthusiasts to trade. This will however be dependent on Government advice and the ability to do so safely. It will communicate any decision though its website, e-newsletter, and social media channels.
Russell Bowman, Managing Director of Beaulieu Enterprises Ltd said: “We know how popular these three events are and their significance to both car enthusiasts and the local economy, so we are sorry to have to make this difficult decision. We would like to thank everyone, including the event sponsors, for their support and patience over the last few months and look forward to welcoming them back when these events return in 2021.”
On a positive note, Beaulieu has confirmed that the popular Simply car rallies are going to be continued for the rest of the year. It has reviewed the arrangements for these smaller events to make sure they can take place safely for both participants, visitors, and staff. As a result, all participants will have to pre-book their tickets, and there will be a limit on the number of vehicles that can participate. A revised schedule and new booking details will be provided before the end of June. Existing ticket holders will not require rebooking.
Beaulieu resumed its grounds and gardens to visitors in early June and is hopeful of resuming the National Motor Museum, Palace House, and other indoor areas of the attraction in July.
