History

Beaulieu has had a number of inns and ale houses in its history, and there has been an inn on the site of the Montagu Arms since the 16th Century, called successively The Ship, The George and in 1742 The Montagu Arms. The inn was a meeting place for farmers and parish officers, and was a centre for timber auctions and lectures. There used to be a cattle market every year until 1809, and the inn even had its own farmland. The annual Beaulieu fairs originating from 1607 were held here as well as weekly markets.

The original façade of the inn was demolished around 1887, with the new building incorporating Monty's, being completed in 1888.

In 1925 a new north-east wing was added to form the hotel as we know it today. Built of bricks and tiles half a century old, the "new" hotel looks at first glance less like an hotel than an old fashioned country house.

Inside, the visitor is at once struck by the solidity and comfort of it all. An oak floored and panelled hall with old brick fireplace, leading out of this a beautifully proportioned oak panelled dining room. French windows lead on to a loggia surrounding an "old world" garden with paved paths, planted with roses and creepers. From another door in the Hall you enter the Magnolia Lounge, the essence of quiet, comfort and elegance. Leading from this the book lined Library Bar, with doors leading to a decked area with an ancient and magnificent Magnolia providing a shady bower. A light, airy and beautifully styled conservatory adds to the charm of the gardens, and is the perfect setting for drinks, both formal and informal.