Automotive enthusiasts and Bavarian motor fans are invited to gather in the heart of the New Forest for Simply BMW 2026 at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu on Sunday 20th September 2026! Welcoming BMW owners of all ages and models—from classic 02s and legendary M cars to modern electric innovations—this premier rally allows participants to park directly within the stunning museum parkland. Enjoy an immersive day out featuring public-voted People’s Choice Awards, live arena owner Q&A sessions with show commentator Our Tim, and dedicated car club displays. Best of all, every participant and visitor ticket includes full admission to all Beaulieu attractions, including Palace House, Little Beaulieu, and the world-famous National Motor Museum!
Simply BMW Show Dates & Opening Times
Schedule and access timings for the rally at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu:
- Event Date: Sunday 20th September 2026.
- Participant Vehicle Entry: Gates open from 9:00 AM until 2:00 PM via the main Beaulieu entrance and the B3054 Beaulieu Road entrance (open 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM).
- Visitor Opening Times: General public visitor entry opens from 10:00 AM through to 5:00 PM via Visitor Reception.
Rally Highlights & Show Features
Featured activities, vehicle displays, and attraction access during Simply BMW:
- All-Model BMW Display Parkland: Drive in and admire hundreds of BMWs of all ages, generations, and specifications parked within the picturesque Beaulieu museum grounds.
- People’s Choice Awards: Every participant vehicle is eligible to win, with trophies and prizes voted for directly by event visitors on the day.
- “The Story Behind the Car” Arena Q&A: Show commentator Our Tim interviews selected vehicle owners in the main display arena at 1:30 PM to share unique restoration, history, and ownership stories.
- Dedicated BMW Club Stands: Designated group parking areas for registered BMW owners’ clubs (spaces held until 10:30 AM).
- Full Attraction Admission Included: Every event ticket grants access to the National Motor Museum, Palace House, Little Beaulieu, and Beaulieu Abbey grounds.
Ticket Information & Entry Pricing
Pricing details for participant vehicles and general site visitors:
- Standard Participant Ticket (Adult): £19.00 (valid only when arriving in and displaying a BMW).
- Standard Participant Ticket (Child 4–16): £11.00 (Children under 4 free of charge).
- General Visitors: Standard Beaulieu attraction general admission rates apply.
- Accessibility & Carers: Complimentary carer tickets are available upon emailing booking references and proof of eligibility to Beaulieu events team.
How to Get to Beaulieu National Motor Museum
Travel routes for reaching the Beaulieu estate in the New Forest (SO42 7ZN):
- By Car (Participant Entry): Follow signs off the M27 (Junction 2) through the New Forest towards Beaulieu. Display vehicles use either the Main Entrance or the secondary B3054 Beaulieu Road entrance between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are Brockenhurst or Totton, with local taxi services operating to the museum grounds.
- By Bus: Seasonal New Forest Tour bus routes and local bus connections link Brockenhurst, Hythe, and Beaulieu village.
Beaulieu Parking & Arrival Information
Parking procedures on site:
- Participant Display Parking: BMW display vehicles will be directed onto designated grass parkland areas around the museum grounds by stewards. Friends wanting to park together must arrive in procession.
- Visitor Car Parking: Free visitor parking is provided in the main Beaulieu visitor car parks adjacent to Visitor Reception.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things happening across the region? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover motor shows, car rallies, museum exhibits, family days out, and local entertainment near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Simply BMW taking place at Beaulieu?
- The rally takes place on Sunday 20th September 2026. Gates open for participant vehicles from 9:00 AM, and general visitors can enter from 10:00 AM. The event finishes at 5:00 PM.
- Where is the National Motor Museum located?
- The National Motor Museum is located on the Beaulieu estate in the New Forest, Hampshire (SO42 7ZN).
- How much are participant tickets for Simply BMW?
- Standard participant tickets for those arriving in a display BMW are £19.00 for adults and £11.00 for children (ages 4–16). Children under 4 enter free of charge.
- Can I attend the event if I don’t own a BMW?
- Yes! Non-BMW owners can attend as general visitors via the main Visitor Reception. Standard Beaulieu attraction general admission pricing applies.
- Does the event ticket include admission to the National Motor Museum?
- Yes, all participant and visitor tickets include full access to the National Motor Museum, Palace House, Little Beaulieu, Beaulieu Abbey, and the surrounding grounds and gardens.