Events Guide: 40 unmissable classic shows
These are the classic days out we’re looking forward to this summer
23 APRIL
RIPON SPRING CLASSIC CAR AND BIKE SHOW
Ripon Racecourse, North Yorks HG4 1UG
Organised to coincide with this year’s Drive It Day, this is a great excuse to take your classic to Yorkshire for this popular event. More than 500 classics will be on show, with everything from cars and bikes, to a display of classic Land Rovers which will please the off-roaders.
www.markwoodwardclassicevents.com
25 APRIL
BOSWORTH WATER TRUST RALLY
Bosworth Water Park, Nuneaton, Warks CV13 6PD
Bosworth’s monthly classic rallies are held until September, and this is the first of the year. Open to all classic cars and bikes, the events raise funds for a local hospice and there are plenty of activities for the whole family. It costs just £1 to enter a vehicle for display, making this a great value way to enjoy some classic entertainment.
www.bosworthwaterpark.co.uk
15 APRIL
PRIDE OF LONGBRIDGE
Cofton Park, West Midlands B31 2BQ
After bad weather forced the cancellation of last year’s event, we’ll be keeping our fingers crossed for sunshine in 2017 because this popular show is always a good opportunity to admire British classics. All the great marques associated with Longbridge will be represented, so there’s something for everyone, but it’s also a chance to mix with people who used to work at the famous Longbridge factory, which adds another fascinating dimension to this much-loved show.
Email: prideoflongbridge2006@gmail.com
30 APRIL
SPRINGFIELDS CLASSIC CAR SHOW
Spalding, Lincolnshire PE12 6ET
More than 250 classic vehicles are expected to be on display, so there’s sure to be something that takes your fancy. A variety of marque clubs always attend, too, and the show is a relaxed affair. Gates open at 10am and admission for visitors is just £3.
www.springfieldsevents.co.uk
7 MAY
WHEELNUTS CLASSIC CAR SHOW
St Rose’s, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 4AP
This popular event raises money for helping disabled children – including more than £10,000 last year – so we encourage you to go along and add your support. There are plenty of car clubs in attendance, and a terrific display of classic cars and bikes with prizes awarded to the best. And the organisers have even laid on a park and ride using vintage buses for an added dose of nostalgia – surely enough to tempt our very own bus fanatic, Nick Larkin.
www.stroses.org.uk
2-4 JUNE
VINTAGE NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL
Stockton Park, Wiltshire BA12 0SQ
Why not dig out the vintage outfit to really get into the spirit of things at this great show? There are hundreds of classic cars and bikes from the 1920s to the 1970s to admire, and when you’re ready for a break you can enjoy everything from live music and dancing to fashion and antique stalls. You’ll also find great food, a Routemaster bus used as a bar, and a Tiger Moth air display among the attractions. Just remember that you need to pre-book if you want to camp.
www.vintage nostalgiafestival.co.uk
2 APRIL
CLASSIC DRIVE AND RIDE IN DAY
Lakeland Motor Museum, Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 8TA
This a great one for showing off your own classic –there’s no need to book, parking is free, and owners displaying classics will get discount vouchers for the museum. It’s also the perfect base for exploring the Lakes in your classic.
www.lakelandmotormuseum.co.uk
‘It’s well worth looking around the museum too – particularly the Donald Campbell exhibits’
DAVID SIMISTER ON THE LAKELAND MOTOR MUSEUM
14 MAY
NATIONAL TRUST KILLERTON CLASSIC CAR DAY
Exeter, Devon EX5 3LE
Killerton is a fine Georgian house set in more than 6000 acres of parkland, making it a wonderful setting for admiring the classics. Promising plenty more attractions in the form of craft and food stalls, this is a great family day out and the gates open at 10am. There’ll be live music to enjoy, too, while exhibitors will be vying for the Killerton House Cup for the best car on show.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killerton
21 MAY
BROOKLANDS SPRING CLASSIC BREAKFAST
Brooklands Circuit, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0QN
Gates open at 8am and the first stop is the Sunbeam Café or Napier Room for breakfast. After that there’s a wealth of desirable classics to enjoy, and you’ll also be able to watch cars in action on the challenging test hill. Bring along a pre-1987 car and you’ll be able to park in the paddock, and the ticket price includes entry to the museum, which is always a treat.
www.brooklandsmuseum.com
3 JUNE
LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY CLASSIC TRANSPORT PICNIC
Fairclough Hall Farm, Weston, Herts SG4 7DP
In a lovely rural setting, visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy everything this well-attended event has to offer. Open from 11am-5pm and with tickets costing just £5 per car on the gate, you’ll be treated to a terrific display of veteran, vintage, and classic cars and bikes. And if that’s not enough, there are also trades stalls, an autojumble, live music, and a real ale bar to keep you entertained.
www. lgccvcc.co.uk
3-4 JUNE
BRITISH RACING GREEN
Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb, Worcestershire WR6 6RP
Details for the event are still being finalised, so keep an eye on the website, but it’s sure to be a great weekend at this historic venue. What we do know is that it will include a round of the Midland Hill Climb Championship, so plenty of action is guaranteed, while practice and competition takes place on both days. There’ll be plenty more, though, including trade stands and classics on display and advanced entry on the Saturday starts at just £8.
www.shelsleywalsh.com
18 JUNE
BROMLEY PAGEANT
Norman Park, Bromley, Kent BR2 9EF
From cars to bikes you’ll enjoy more than 3000 classics and it’s all supported by numerous car clubs. There are cars for sale, too, and plenty of hot rods, customs, and commercials to admire, too. Displaying your car in the One Make area costs £10, which includes a souvenir programme and commemorative plaque.
www.bromleypageant.co.uk
‘Bromley’s a brilliant day out – the classic displays are vast!’
JAMES SADLIER ON BROMLEY
15-16 JULY
CLASSICS AND SUPERCARS
Sherborne Castle, Dorset DT9 5NR
This ever-popular show, which raises money for local charities, is now in its 14th year, and 2017 will be the first time that it takes place over two days. Not surprisingly this wellattended event features the largest display of classics, vintage and supercars in the south west. There’s always a wealth of things to enjoy, from around 2000 classic cars and historic bikes to car clubs and trade stands, and visitors can also browse the craft fair and autojumble. The parade of supercars always draws a crowd, there’ll be a Charterhouse auction, while Mercedes-Benz is this year’s featured marque. And you can save a few pounds by booking tickets in advance.
www.classicsatthecastle.co.uk
3-4 JUNE
CLASSIC AND PERFORMANCE CAR SPECTACULAR
Tatton Park, Cheshire WA16 6QN
Always a lovely location to visit, Tatton Park will be playing host to at least 2000 of the finest classic and performance cars. Plenty of car clubs will be in attendance, there’ll be a few hundred stalls to browse, and the fun of a rummage through the autojumble. Plenty of entertainment is promised, making this a great family day out. Exhibiting is free – but must be booked in advance – and while visitors can pay on the day there are advance discounts on offer.
www.cheshireautopromotions.co.uk
17-18 JUNE
BROOKLANDS DOUBLE TWELVE
Brooklands Circuit, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0QN
Always a firm fixture on the show calendar, the Double Twelve is a terrific blend of classic vehicles and spectacular competition. Speed trials, driving tests, and always-entertaining attempts at the fearsome test hill are all part of the action, plus there are concours events to enjoy on both days. This year promises to be particularly special, though, because the first day sees the official grand re-opening of the finishing straight, 110 years to the day since the track originally opened. A re-enactment of the original opening parade is scheduled to take place, include taxiing runs from historic aircraft. Don’t miss this year’s event!
www.brooklandsmuseum.com
JERSEY INTERNATIONAL MOTORING FESTIVAL
Various locations
This annual event is a proper treat for classic car fans. All classic and vintage vehicles are welcome, and along with displays of cars and bikes there’s a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of competitive sprints and hill climbs.
www.jimf.je
‘This looks like a great show – why not combine it with a holiday?’
MIKE LE CAPLAIN ON JERSEY
BRIGHTON BEACH CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW
Madeira Drive, Brighton BN2 1AE
Nothing beats a day beside the seaside, and this wellattended show is always a treat. Open from 10am to 4pm, you can expect an eclectic display of classics, kit cars, and replicas plus plenty more besides, and entry is free for visitors. Exhibitors park for free, too. It forms part of the London to Brighton classic run taking place on the same day, so you’ll be in the perfect place to see the 300-plus cars arrive at the finish line.
www.classicmotorshows.co.uk
NSRA NOSTALGIA NATIONALS
Shakespeare County Raceway, Long Marston CV37 8LL
If high-octane competition gets your adrenaline flowing then you won’t want to miss this terrific weekend of action, which celebrates the 45th anniversary of the National Street Rod Association. Open to pre-1973 vehicles you’ll get to enjoy the sights and sounds of hot rods, custom cars, and dragsters taking to the strip, including the ‘Outlaw Anglia’ racers with some great classic Fords in action. And beginning from £20 you can take your own car onto the strip, though do check with the organisers first.
www.nsra.org.uk
8-9 JULY
CHATEAU IMPNEY HILLCLIMB
Chateau Impney, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 0BN
With around 200 competitors racing against the clock up the 1000-yard course, this is historic motorsport at its very best, and this year’s event promises be extra special because it celebrates Maserati’s sporting achievements, with a 1934 4CS taking to the course. And that’s not all – it’s also an opportunity to see a BRM P48 – raced in period by Jo Bonnier and Graham Hill – in action. Accompanying all this is a vintage fun fair, concours, classic car auction, and plenty of trade stands to browse. A terrific weekend is in store!
www.chateauimpneyhillclimb.com
THE MOTOR SHOW, HAREWOOD HOUSE
Harewood House, Leeds LS17 9LG
Incorporating the Yorkshire Classic Car Show, this new event is a mix of the old and the new with modern cars and dealers in attendance along with other exciting exhibits to be announced nearer the time. Judging and awards will take place throughout the weekend, and it’s all supported by trade stands, a retail village, and an autojumble. The first 500 vehicles can display for free if booked in advance, and there’s a small discount on advance visitor tickets. It looks a fine way to enjoy classics and perhaps buy your next new car!
www.classicshows.org
8-9 JULY
SCOTTISH TRANSPORT EXTRAVAGANZA
Glamis Castle, Angus DD8 1RJ
Not only is it a magnificent setting, but this is the 43rd event from the Strathmore Vintage Vehicle Club. More than 1400 vehicles will be on display, featuring everything from classic cars and bikes to commercials, military vehicles, tractors and steam engines, and they are supported by around 150 trade, club, and autojumble stands. Also promised are parades and pipe bands, a craft marquee, family entertainment, and the delights of the ‘Joseph Peace Fire Show’. Tickets start at £8, and the show runs from 9am-5pm on both days.
www.svvc.co.uk/extravaganza
8-9 JULY
WONDERLAND CLASSIC AND SPORTS CAR FESTIVAL
Ferry Farm, Haveringham NG14 7JP
After last year’s successful show, the 2017 event promises to be better than ever with some exciting things planned. First up is celebrating 30 years of the Capri Club International’s Mansfield Notts Branch, so expect some great displays of these legendary Fords. There’s also a special ‘endangered species’ display.
www.capriclub2000.co.uk
15-16 JULY
MIDDLEWICH CLASSIC CAR AND BIKE SHOW
Market Field and Civic Way Car Park, Middlewich CV10 9AT
2017 sees this friendly and well-attended show celebrate its tenth anniversary, and it’s one that always attracts a strong showing of classic cars, bikes, and military vehicles. A variety of other attractions are on hand to entertain show-goers, and it all raises money for local charities so it’s well worth getting along. Open from 10am on both days, entrance for both visitors and exhibitors is free, as is car parking.
www.middlewich.org.uk
‘Three days of brilliant classic racing – don’t miss it!’
MuRRAy sCullION ON the sIlveRstONe ClAssIC
16 July
NEWBY HALL HISTORIC VEHICLE RALLY
Newby Hall, Ripon HG4 5AE
Claimed to be the north’s biggest one-day car show, Yorkshire’s lovely Newby Hall and gardens is the setting for this event, which is organised by the North East Pre-War Austin Club. Around 1500 classics are expected to be on display, with a wide range of marques represented so there’s bound to be something to tickle your fancy. An autojumble adds further interest amongst the planned attractions. Tickets include entry to the gardens and adventure playground so your family can make a proper day of it.
www.newbyhall.com
16 July
UXBRIDGE CHARITY AUTOSHOW & FESTIVAL
Hillingdon House Farm, Uxbridge, Middx UB8 1ES
With almost 2000 cars on show covering everything from classics to moderns, there’s bound to be something that floats your boat. And there’s lots more to enjoy, too, from car club and trade stands to live music provided by local bands. Also on hand for a full day of entertainment is a fun area for kids, a fun fair, and an action arena with bike and dog displays. Last year’s event raised £32,000 for Rotary Club of Uxbridge charities, so we urge you to lend your support, and booking tickets in advance will save 20 per cent on entry prices.
www.uxbridgeautoshow.com
16 July
BERKELEY CLASSIC CAR SHOW
Berkeley Castle, Gloucestershire GL13 9PJ
Celebrating the 20th year of the show in 2017, this event promises to be the best yet. Set in a lovely location, you’ll get to browse the hundreds of classics on display, along with the club stands, autojumble, and collector and antiques fair. There will also be cars for sale, along with live music and plenty of food stalls to keep you replenished. Entry is just £6 while under-16s go free when accompanied by an adult.
www.berkeley-classic-car-show. com
22-23 July
CLASSIC NOSTALGIA
Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb, Worcestershire WR6 6RP
Visitors are encouraged to don period dress and really get into the spirit of things. Exciting celebrations are planned, including 30 years of Group A rallying, 20 years of WRC cars, and ‘Speed Records – The Campbells’ so this is one not to miss. And there’s more – driver interviews, an air display, concours, and live music and dancing will all feature.
www.shelsleywalsh.com
22-23 July
NORTH YORK MOORS RAILWAY 60S FEST
Various locations
If you fancy indulging in everything 1960s, then Yorkshire is the place to be over this summer weekend. The plan is for themed events at four different stations – Pickering, Levisham, Goathland (for Heartbeat fans), and Grosmont. It’s the last one that particularly interests
us here because it will feature transport legends from the decade, so you’ll be able to enjoy everything from classic Minis to Jaguars. But there’ll be plenty more to entertain so we’d encourage you to get along and get into the spirit of the Swinging Sixties!
www.nymr.co.uk
26 July
CLASSICS ON THE COMMON
Harpenden Common, Harpenden, Hertfordshire
Although it is held mid-week this annual show always draws a strong crowd, and last year saw around 1200 classic vehicles assemble on the common. Organised by the Rotary Club of Harpenden, it raises money for local good causes which is reason enough to head along and show your support. And as well as fine cars and motorcycles there are plenty of other attractions to keep you entertained. The event runs throughout the afternoon and until 8pm, and it’s free to enter and there’s plenty to do and see in Harpenden itself.
www.classicsonthecommon.com
30 July
CLASSICS AT THE CASTLE
Bodelwyddan Castle Rhyl LL18 5YA
Set in 260 acres of parkland in the heart of Denbighshire, this fine setting will play host to more than 500 classic cars and motorcycles. There’s plenty more to entertain,
too, including club stands, a concours exhibition, and lots of refreshment choices. 2017 will be the eighth event at the castle and while it’s growing more popular every year, the organisers say additional content is planned for this year. For those bringing a classic, admission is just £4 if booked in advance.
www.classicshows.org
SILVERSTONE CLASSIC
Silverstone Circuit, Northants NN12 8TN
This year’s show promises some exciting celebrations, including 50 years of the Ferrari Owners’ Club, 60 years of the Lotus Seven, and 50 years since the introduction of the famous DFV engine. It also remains one of the finest motorsport shows anywhere featuring spectacular historic racing and thousands of classics on display – and then there’s the live music, vintage fun fair, and aerial displays. We reckon it’s worth booking a three-day ticket in advance for the best deals.
www.silverstoneclassic.com
26-28 August
OULTON PARK GOLD CUP
Oulton Park, Cheshire CW6 9B
There can be few better ways to spend the August Bank Holiday than heading to Oulton Park for a feast of classic racing. Historic Formula Fords, touring cars, and lots more will all be taking to the track, and the event is supported by a wealth of other attractions including classic car displays, a concours, and vintage bus trips. Live music, an artisan food market, and passenger rides are all on the agenda, too, making for one superb weekend.
www.oultonparkgoldcup.com
27 August
KILKENNY MOTOR CLUB CLASSIC AND VINTAGE SHOW
St James’s Park, Freshford Road, Kilkenny Kilkenny Motor Club
More than 700 vehicles were on display last year, so there’s plenty to see at this well-supported show. 2017 sees a special celebration of the Ford Fiesta which has now reached the ripe old age of 40, so expect a wealth of MkI and MkII models to admire, while pre-WW2 cars will also be a particular feature of this year’s show. No preregistration is required and admission is free for exhibitors. Doors open at 10am sharp.
www.kilkennymotorclub.com
2-3 september
BEAULIEU INTERNATIONAL AUTOJUMBLE
Beaulieu, Hampshire SO42 7ZN
Supported by our colleagues at Practical
Classics, anyone on the hunt for parts simply has to attend. Popular with international visitors, you can spend the weekend browsing more than 2000 stands and there’s also the temptation of the Bonhams auction held on the Saturday. Entry to the museum is included in the ticket price, there’s a free shuttle bus to the car parks, and the organisers will even transport bigger items to your car for free. Whatever component you need, it’s almost certainly to be found here.
www.beaulieuevents.co.uk
‘Hall after hall of deeply joyous classics – it’s a wonderful season finale’ NIcK LArKIN oN the Nec
16 September
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Snetterton Circuit, Norfolk NR16 2JU Marking the eighth round of the VSCC Speed Championship, action takes place on the shorter ‘100 circuit’ and will be a huge treat for anyone who enjoys the sights and sounds of classic and vintage racing. Pre-war racers and sports cars will provide close competition, but visitors can also expect some post-war action in the form of F3 500, pre-1961, and 1950s cars. Other entertainment laid on at the event includes car club displays to browse, while there’s free access to the paddock so you can get up close to cars and drivers. www.vscc.co.uk 16-17 September
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Newport & Ryde, Isle of Wight Back for 2017, this popular event is actually split over two locations, with displays at Newport Quay on the Saturday and then Ryde Esplanade on Sunday. Raising money for island charities, more than 700 vehicles are expected, so why not jump on the ferry and combine some great classic car displays with a walk on the beach? Open from 11am to 5.30pm each day it’s free to attend, although those wishing to display a car will need to register in advance www.visitisleofwight.co.uk 23-24 September
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Sywell Aerodrome, Northamptonshire NN6 0BN This is always a superb weekend of entertainment, this year’s shows promises to be bigger and better than ever. Visitors will enjoy a huge display of classic vehicles, as well as live action throughout the two days from F1 racers, Group B rally cars, and hot rods amongst other treats. www.sywellclassic.co.uk
24 September
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Newark Showground, Newark NG24 2NY
If it’s classic car parts you’re after, then this huge show is not to be missed. You’ll almost certainly find what you need among the hundreds of stalls, but there are plenty of vehicles to admire, too, with cars, bikes, commercials, and custom cars all welcome. Exhibitors pay £5 for entry, while general admission for visitors is from 10am. However, for a few pounds extra you can enjoy earlybird entry from 8m to start your bargain hunting. www.newarkautojumble.co.uk 8 october
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Santa Pod Raceway, Northamptonshire, NN29 7XA Despite the name, this event isn’t just for Golf GTIs – all VAG models are welcome, so if you own a classic VW, Audi, SEAT, or Škoda, then why not head along? There’s lots to see with plenty of clubs in attendance, trade stands and an autojumble, and a ‘show and shine’ competition with awards. And cars can also take to the famous quarter-mile drag strip for some competitive action. For anyone who has never experienced Santa Pod, trust us, it’s a venue to remember! ■ www.vwaction.com
8 october
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Hamilton House Farm, Garstang PR3 0TB
These long-established autojumbles are relaxed, social affairs that mix both regular and new visitors. They are also great places to find those sought-after parts and it’s not just classic car bits because you’ll also find that bikes, commercials, and tractors are catered for, along with stalls selling books, manuals, and other assorted motoring collectibles. The event runs from 9am-1pm with entry for adults costing just £3.50, while there’s refreshments and free parking, too. www.garstangautojumbles.co.uk
29 october malVern 4X4 sPares DaY anD lanD roVer autoJumBle Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcestershire WR13 6NW
If classic Landies are your thing and you enjoy searching out those elusive parts, then you’ll want this event in your calendar. The wealth of indoor and outdoor stalls are sure to have just about everything you could need, from new and used bits to rare components, and an informal display of classic Series 1 models is also planned. Parking is free, and an on-site restaurant will keep you fuelled while you browse. Under-15s can get in for free, too. www.markwoodwardclassicevents.com 4-5 November
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Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallett BA4 6QN Just about to start restoring a classic, or in the middle of a restoration? Then this show is a must as you’ll find everything you need to help get the job done. There’s a wealth of trade stands and advice on hand, and it’s a great opportunity to discuss a restoration with likeminded enthusiasts. Plenty of car clubs and an autojumble also feature, while the Charterhouse auction on the Sunday could just prove tempting for your next project. www.cvrs.bristolclassiccarshows.com 10-12 November
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NEC, Birmingham B40 1NT With more than 1800 cars and displays from upwards of 250 classic clubs the NEC’s season finale is one show you won’t want to miss. It’s hall after hall of car heaven, including everything from celebrity appearances on the Live Stage to cars for sale. www.necclassicmotorshow.com