On the doorstep of the New Forest lies a village that 'no one can pronounce'. However, many people will be soon learning how to say it because it has recently been named one of the best places to live in 2024. Beaulieu in Hampshire is pronounced 'bew-lee' and its name is taken from the French Beau Lieu which literally means 'beautiful place'.
The village was named in The Mirror's list of Britain's 30 most desirable villages and you can see why. The charming village has stunning views of the New Forest, old-time houses and quaint shops to visit. It is a great day out and one that is only two hours away from the capital.
READ MORE: Ryanair approved luggage brand selling three-piece sets £166 cheaper than Antler Beaulieu initially grew around the abbey founded in 1204 by Cistercian monks. The land was given to them by King John, who had a royal hunting lodge at Beaulieu, and 30 monks from the French abbey of Citeaux made this new land home. The area flourished as Monks traded goods and kept up a medicinal garden.
Nowadays the village is known for the 9000 acre estate that King Jogn lived on but also some newer tourist attractions like the National Motor Museum. The museum has a litany of vintage cars and motorcycles and many fascinating exhibitions. Top Gear fans would love the museum's collection of cars from the memorable TV show from some of the most iconic challenges they did.
There's also the Palace House which has been the Montagu family home since 1538. It used to be the.
