Chris Harris launches Beaulieu's new-look World of Top Gear

Visitors to Beaulieu on 14 July watched an exciting driving demonstration by TV presenter Chris Harris before he officially opened the refreshed World of Top Gear display with The Stig and Lord Montagu, which now reflects recent changes to BBC Top Gear.

New exhibits include the impressive Ssangyacht, the longest limousine selfie opportunity and a marine feature displaying boat challenge vehicles. While the Enormodrome boasts a brand new studio in keeping with the style of the latest series with presenters Matt LeBlanc, Chris Harris and Rory Reid.

Chris Harris said, “It’s very exciting, seeing all these incredible cars in one place. It’s a privilege to have a home for all of the weird Frankenstein creations that we have on the show.’’

The new-look display still includes a homage to the past, with a heritage corridor timeline which pays tribute to the show’s 40-year history which began with Angela Rippon as the first presenter and has continued through four decades including more recently Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May.

At the entrance is the stretch Panda limousine for the longest selfie opportunity and head inside to see the indestructible Toyota Hilux rising from the ashes in a haze of smoke, alongside the roofless Reliant Rialtos driven by Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc in their first road trip challenge.

Another star feature is the current Reasonably Fast Car, a suitably red Toyota GT86. There’s also the amphibious car challenge’s ‘Damper Van’ and Triumph Herald yacht, complete with sail.

The adventures continue and memorabilia from Top Gear is on show throughout the display, including the Jaguar steering wheel from The India Special and door panels from the Hindustan Ambassador, which raced to victory over all other taxis.

Old favourites will remain on show outside the display and they are joined by the Hovervan, which was created from a Ford transit van.

Lord Montagu said: “The World of Top Gear continues to be a popular feature at Beaulieu and I was delighted that Chris Harris was able to take part in the launch with a display of his skills behind the wheel.”

Entrance to the World of Top Gear is included in a general admission ticket to Beaulieu which also offers entrance to the National Motor Museum, the 13th century Beaulieu Abbey, and Palace House.