Palace Lane Beaulieu Brockenhurst
01590 612242
http://www.beaulieuchurches.org.uk

The monastery at Beaulieu was founded in 1204 by King John, and its Abbey Church dedicated to St. Mary in 1246. Most of the Abbey fell into ruins after the dissolution of the monasteries by King Henry VIII, but domus, cloisters and refectory remain.

The refectory of the original abbey became the parish church of Beaulieu, and so it has remained ever since. Once inside the church, especially if the sun is shining, you may realise that the church is not oriented - that is, it does not run west to east. Instead, because of its position on the south side of the original abbey cloisters, the church lies north to south and the altar is at the south end.

Since 1538 several changes have been made: formation of a chancel and sanctuary, construction of a gallery chapel and vestries, importation of oak pews, and installation of a Walker pipe organ which is a delight to play.

One of the most interesting architectural features is the prominent stone lectern, from which one chosen monk would read improving books to the other monks as they sat silently eating their meals. The lectern is now used as a pulpit, from which the preacher gives his sermon, or address, during services. The pulpit is approached by a stone stairway cut into the width of the west wall, an unusual feature found only here and in Chester Cathedral.

Either a 'Parish Communion (Common Worship)' or an 'All Age Family Service' are normally held in the Abbey Church on Sundays, starting at 9.30 am. On a fifth Sunday of a month throughout the year, the 9.30 service is held elsewhere in the Benefice. As there are three churches in the Benefice these services alternate between them. Please visit the Benefice website (www.beaulieuchurches.org.uk) and search for the calendar for these services. Everyone is most welcome.

Buckler's Hard, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst
01590 612242
http://www.beaulieuchurches.org.uk

The attractive village of Bucklers Hard, where wooden ships were built for Nelson's fleet, is about three miles to the south of Beaulieu.

In the front room of a cottage next to the Master Builder's House will be found the Chapel of St. Mary. This unusually beautiful little chapel is visited annually by thousands of visitors, and serves as a place of worship for parishioners in this part of the Parish of Beaulieu.

As early as the 1880s, the Rev RP Powles used to conduct services in this room. It had been used previously as a dame school, and when the Vicar celebrated Holy Communion in those days he used the mistress's desk as an altar. Later it was furnished as a Chapel.

After the First World War the Chapel was restored, largely through the initiative of Lady Poole, wife of Sir Reginald Poole of Bucklers Wood, whose ashes now rest in the Chapel. Later the Chapel was enriched and beautified by generous gifts from many friends.

The memorial to Sir Francis Chichester echoes the nautical feel of the village of which the chapel is very much a part. The sea birds on the delightful wooden plaque reminds us that Sir Francis set sail from Bucklers Hard on his epic single-handed journey around the world. He spent much time in the village. Details of his voyage and his boats may be seen in the Maritime Museum.

The Black MadonnaA very interesting guide to the Chapel, written by the novelist Elisabeth Goudge, is on sale in the Chapel.

Holy Communion services are held every Sunday at 8.00am.Services are said, except on special occasions eg Easter Sunday and Christmas Day. The Book of Common Prayer is used.

For more information please visit www.beaulieuchurches.org.uk  .

Bucklers Hard, SO42 7XB
(01590) 616253
hillbrookehotels.co.uk/the-master-builde...

Situated in what is really a heritage village, the spacious wood panelled bars are open to all and the garden and Bucklers Hard green are very popular in summer.

Palace Lane, Beaulieu, SO42 7ZL
(01590) 612324
montaguarmshotel.co.uk/montys_inn.html

This pub is within the Montagu Arms Hotel, which dates mainly from 1888 and holds various awards. The pub consists of a single bar with it's own restaurant to the side. The interior has wooden flooring, wood panelled walls and stone arches....