A stunning reconstruction of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is one of the star attractions at Beaulieu during this summer’s school holidays, being driven around the picturesque grounds of the National Motor Museum and posing for visitors’ photos.
Visitors to the Beaulieu attraction can spot this extraordinary vehicle, which will be acting as a photo opportunity. This reconstruction of one of the most memorable film cars is certainly a stylish and exciting backdrop for family photos and visitors’ snaps.
It joins Beaulieu’s range of special summer activities which will be taking place until 4th September. Watch falconry demonstrations in the Cloister of the 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and take guided walks with Beaulieu’s living history monks, while veteran and vintage vehicles are driven around the grounds by chauffeurs in period costume.
Spot the rider of the Penny Farthing, then enjoy singing and music in the Lower Drawing Room of Palace House, before enjoying summer fun and games on the lawns outside. Discover Beaulieu’s connection to Shakespeare with performances by Shakespearean courtiers, while families can follow the new Shakespeare-themed summer trail.
The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang reconstruction was built by an ardent fan of the classic film and uses some authentic parts from one of the Chittys that was used for filming.
Several Chittys were built for filming, including one in racing guise which was used for the motorsport sequence in the film’s opening credits. As part of the story, this car was crashed and burst into flames.
Some authentic parts from the wrecked car were used to build the Chitty reconstruction, including three body panels, part of the elegant radiator cowling, one of the headlamps, wheels and leather straps. The boat builder who created the original wooden ‘boat tail’ bodies has also made a new version for this Chitty reconstruction and a V6 engine has been installed to give this stunning machine power.
The car made its eye-catching Beaulieu debut at this year’s Beaulieu Village Fete, when it stylishly delivered Lord Montagu, Eastenders actor Stefan Booth and his son Benjamin for the celebrity opening and ribbon cutting on the lawns of Palace House.
A great value ticket to Beaulieu includes entrance to all of the attraction. Don’t miss the National Motor Museum’s new Driving Change display, which explores motoring innovations, technology and safety throughout history and makes motoring predictions for the future.
Visit Palace House, Beaulieu Abbey and stroll around the beautifully kept gardens and grounds. At the Secret Army Exhibition learn about the training of special agents at Beaulieu during World War II.
In the World of Top Gear, see some of the machines built for the challenges on the TV motoring show. In On Screen Cars see TV and film favourites including the flying Ford Anglia from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Mr Bean’s lime green Mini and Wallace and Gromit’s Anti-Pesto Van.
All summer activities are included in the standard Beaulieu admission price and tickets can be bought in advance online at www.beaulieu.co.uk For more information see www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/summer-living-history or call 01590 612345. The Beaulieu attraction is open daily from 10am until 6pm.
