ONE of Hampshire’s top attractions has received two awards at an annual ceremony dubbed the Oscars of the heritage world.

The National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, which includes historic Palace House, won the Special Judges’ Award at the event and was also highly commended in the best shopping category.

Hudson’s Heritage Awards are presented by the publishers of Hudson’s Historic Houses and Gardens.

The Special Judges’ Award was made in recognition of the “constant achievement, commercial innovation and good practice”

achieved by Beaulieu over the past 60 years.

Lord Montagu of Beaulieu has been welcoming visitors since he opened Palace House to the public in 1952. The National Motor Museum was built in 1972.

A Hudson’s spokesman said: “Beaulieu was one of the first Treasure Houses in England to open its doors to visitors.

“The attraction has since grown into one of the top ten paid-for visitor attractions in the south east.

“Encompassing not only Palace House and gardens but also the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu Abbey and the World of Top Gear, Beaulieu offers a complete day out for the family.”

Lord Montagu’s daughter, the Hon. Mary Montagu-Scott, was presented with the awards at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London.