UK’S ‘CLASSIC CAPITAL’ REVEALED

North Yorkshire venue beats o sti competition to be voted as Britain’s most popular classic vehicle destination

The Motorist in North Yorkshire has been voted as the UK’s most popular classic vehicle destination, according to enthusiasts. The popular location triumphed over four other locations, each picked by the classic vehicle community, to emerge as the winner of Footman James’ inaugural search for the UK’s ‘Classic Capital’.

The search for the UK’s top automotive destination was conducted by the specialist insurance broker over a six-week period, with enthusiasts asked to nominate their favourite classic vehicle locations and venues. The five finalists were Bicester Heritage, Coleshill Auto Breakfast Meet in the West Midlands, Goodwood Motor Circuit, The Motorist and Re:Fuel in Devon, with hundreds of votes cast to decide the victor.

Based in Sherburn in Elmet near Leeds, The Motorist has rapidly grown into one of the most popular automotive venues in the north of England since the land was acquired for its creation in 2019. It began life as two simple buildings and a burger van, but car meets took o almost instantly, quickly attracting upwards of 100 people, even on the grey drizzly days. Now it features an on-site café, The Arnage restaurant and a retail store, plus a garage and a bodyshop. It is open all year round, but also hosts themed shows and meets each week.

Voters commented on its “great atmosphere”, saying it is a “true petrolhead’s dream and delight.” Its welcoming nature no matter what sort of vehicle visitors arrive in was also praised, along with its impressive facilities and space.

Alec Howarth, Managing Director at The Motorist, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised and to have won this fantastic award, voted for by car enthusiasts, our wonderful visitors and guests.

“We are excited over the journey we are taking together and this accolade really does spur us on, filling all the team at The Motorist with great pride and thanks,” he added. “Thank you to Footman James, Classic Capital, the judges and to all those that took time to vote for us as we represent Yorkshire in this competition, your support is greatly appreciated.”

Charlotte Moseley, Head of Marketing at Footman James, commented: “Each of the finalists would have been a worthy winner so the competition was strong, but the strength of support from enthusiasts for The Motorist and Yorkshire was outstanding.

“The aim of the competition has been to highlight some of the best places to celebrate classic vehicle culture, where like-minded people can gather and share their passion for cars, bikes, and other models. We want to say congratulations to our worthy finalists but of course, to The Motorist specifically for all the good work they are doing for the community in Yorkshire.”

Visit themotorist.com to plan your visit.