Beaulieu High Street is one of the New Forest's loveliest places to spend a day. They say, you haven’t been to the New Forest if you haven’t been to Beaulieu. With its beautiful historic buildings, donkeys roaming the high street, independent shops, welcoming cafés, galleries and wonderful places to eat, there's plenty to enjoy in the very heart of this picturesque village.
From freshly baked treats and locally made chocolates to beautiful boutiques and a country house hotel, Beaulieu High Street is full of character, charm and businesses that make it such a special place to visit.
So, whether you're popping in for coffee or planning a whole day out, here's how to make the most of your time in Beaulieu.
Start with coffee, breakfast or something freshly baked
There's no better way to begin a morning in Beaulieu than with a good coffee and something delicious to eat.
Pallets Tea & Coffee House is a cosy favourite where speciality coffee and a warm welcome go hand in hand. Coffee enthusiasts will particularly appreciate their AeroPress and V60 brewing methods, which bring out the unique flavours of their carefully selected beans. Family-run and full of character, it's a lovely place to catch up with friends or take a break before exploring the village.
A little further along the high street, Beaulieu Bakehouse is another wonderful stop for breakfast, brunch or lunch. With freshly prepared food, tempting cakes and their popular Club Sandwich, there's plenty to enjoy. It's easy to see why these two sister businesses have become part of village life.
For something a little different, pop into Bellord & Brown, an independent deli, bakery, café and food shop filled with delicious and quirky finds. Browse their selection of artisan sauces, pantry favourites, local produce and drinks, or settle in for a freshly made breakfast, lunch or coffee. And whatever you do, don't miss their signature homemade sausage rolls! It's a lovely spot for food lovers, whether you're eating in or picking up something special to take home.
And if you love a garden centre visit, you'll love Fairweather's Garden Centre. Browse its impressive selection of plants and gardening and homeware gifts before heading to Steff's Kitchen for a home-cooked lunch, or Steff's to Go for freshly made baguettes, pastries, cakes and coffee to take away. Much of the produce served at Steff's Kitchen is grown just a few steps away in Patrick's Patch, its very own kitchen garden.
Browse Beaulieu's independent shops and galleries
One of the loveliest things about Beaulieu High Street is the variety of independent businesses you'll find along the way.
Step inside Beaulieu Fine Arts, housed in the village's historic Manor House, and explore a wonderful collection of paintings and artwork from established and emerging artists. With several gallery rooms, an ever-changing selection of pieces and affordable art to suit a range of budgets, it's somewhere you can happily spend time browsing. The gallery also offers professional framing services.
For a little colour and inspiration, step inside Belle & Blossom Boutique, a charming shop filled with beautiful flowers, ladies' clothing, giftware and antiques. Whether you're browsing for something special, treating yourself to a new outfit or picking up a gorgeous bouquet, there's plenty to catch your eye.
For lovers of vintage treasures and beautiful interiors, Bellalocus is a wonderful place to explore. Specialising in vintage and antique homeware, the shop offers a carefully curated collection of unique pieces, full of character and charm. Whether you're searching for something special for your home or simply enjoy browsing beautiful finds, it's well worth a visit.
Fancy a little pampering? Beaulieu Hair & Beauty is a welcoming village salon offering a chance to enjoy some well-deserved time for yourself. Whether you're visiting for a fresh haircut or a beauty treatment, it's a lovely place to relax and unwind. Booking ahead is recommended, although walk-ins are also welcome when availability allows.
Norris 1876 brings a touch of traditional country style to Beaulieu High Street. With a heritage dating back to 1876, this lovely shop offers a selection of country clothing, footwear and accessories, with a real focus on supporting local businesses. In fact, 40% of the products they stock come from the local area, making it a wonderful place to shop local and find something special.
No visit to Beaulieu would be complete without stopping at Beaulieu Chocolate Studio. Creating delicious handmade chocolates in the village since 2006, this local chocolatier makes everything you see in the shop right there on the premises. From beautifully presented chocolate boxes and artisan bars to seasonal creations and gifts, every treat is 100% handmade. Whether you're picking up a present or treating yourself, it's difficult to leave empty-handed!
Make sure you pop into Queensmead Village Shop, a traditional Beaulieu favourite filled with sweet treats, gifts and locally handmade goodies. With its wonderful selection of sweets, including traditional favourites, and plenty of little treasures to browse, it's a lovely stop for picking up something to take home. They also offer gift hampers made to order, perfect for putting together a thoughtful present filled with lovely local finds.
Stay a little longer at The Montagu Arms
At one end of Beaulieu High Street stands The Montagu Arms, one of the New Forest's best-known country house hotels.
With its beautiful historic architecture, welcoming atmosphere and lovely gardens, it's a wonderful place to turn a day exploring Beaulieu into a relaxing overnight stay.
You don't need to be staying at the hotel to enjoy its food and drink, either. For something relaxed, head to Monty's Inn, where traditional pub character, comforting dishes and a welcoming atmosphere make it a lovely spot for lunch or dinner.
Or make an occasion of your visit with a meal at the hotel's Terrace Restaurant, where local ingredients and carefully prepared dishes celebrate the best of the New Forest and surrounding area.
For a special afternoon treat, indulge in a traditional afternoon tea, complete with delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a tempting selection of sweet treats. It's a wonderful way to spend a leisurely afternoon in Beaulieu. Booking is recommended, although walk-ins can be accommodated subject to availability.
Whether you're popping in for a drink, gathering with friends over dinner or treating yourself to a few nights away, The Montagu Arms is another reason to spend more time in Beaulieu.
Parking in Beaulieu
Planning your visit to Beaulieu High Street? Parking is easy, with spaces available in the village car park or along the high street itself. Once you've parked, you can explore the shops, cafés and other businesses on foot, making it easy to enjoy everything Beaulieu has to offer at your own pace.
Make Beaulieu High Street part of your next New Forest day out
Beaulieu High Street is full of character, with beautiful surroundings, wonderful places to eat and a fantastic collection of local shops and businesses. From the warm welcomes to the tempting treats and unique finds, it's a place that makes shopping, eating and exploring a real pleasure.
Come for breakfast. Browse the shops. Pick up a few treats. Enjoy a long lunch. Meet the people behind the businesses and soak up the magical feeling of this beautiful New Forest village.
Next time you're planning a day out in the New Forest, make sure Beaulieu High Street is on your list.
