The Inaugural Beaulieu One Hundred Dinner and Auction

On the evening of 29 November 2025, the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu hosted the inaugural Beaulieu One Hundred Dinner and Auction, welcoming members and distinguished guests to the atmospheric surroundings of the Domus Abbey for a celebration of motoring heritage, achievement and community.

The evening commenced with a drinks reception in the Undercroft, where guests were greeted with champagne and canapés amid evocative land speed record footage of the Sunbeam Bluebird 350hp. The moving images marked the car’s centenary year, celebrated earlier in 2025 at Pendine Sands, and set a fitting tone of innovation and endurance. As the evening unfolded, guests ascended to the firelit Domus, its warm glow and historic setting lending a festive air before a seasonal menu was served.

Dr John Murden, CEO of the National Motor Museum, opened the evening with a warm welcome, followed by Lord Montagu, President of the Museum and host for the night. Lord Montagu shared insights into the Museum’s ambitious transformation project, Ages of Motoring, highlighting its role in preserving and interpreting motoring history for future generations.

A highlight of the evening came from Mike Wilds, Formula One national treasure and guest of honour, who captivated the audience with anecdotes from his racing career, offering a personal glimpse into life behind the wheel at the highest level of motorsport. The proceedings were expertly guided by Danny Hopkins, Editor of Practical Classics, who generously donated his time as master of ceremonies and auctioneer, bringing energy, wit and warmth to the auction in an engaging and good-humoured style.

The evening also celebrated individual achievement within the motoring community. Lord Montagu presented the Young Pioneer of the Year Award 2025 to Ethan Blake-Jones of Speedshop, recognising his innovation and promise within the industry. The Personality of the Year Award 2025 was awarded to Elspeth Beard, honouring her remarkable solo motorcycle journey around the world in the 1980s—an extraordinary feat of endurance, courage and resilience that continues to inspire generations of riders.

As the inaugural Beaulieu One Hundred Dinner and Auction drew to a close, guests were thanked for their continued support of the National Motor Museum throughout the year. With the success of this annual event, the Museum looks ahead with anticipation to hosting many more exclusive and niche experiences for members in 2026, continuing to celebrate the stories, people and machines that have shaped motoring history.