One of the many things that bring the British population together is our love for cars and more importantly driving them.
Attracting millions of motor heads from all over Europe, car shows provide the best opportunity for the public to see not only new technologies and new cars but to reflect and appreciate the classic cars that celebrate the vintage era.
With the motoring calendar packed throughout the year with events large and small, there really is no shortage of events to satisfy your motoring fix.
Here’s a rundown of our top UK car festivals this year, from classic car shows to performance car shows and motoring events.
London Motor Show
Naturally, London boasts the UK’s largest car show. If you want to be the first to see the newest releases then head to the London Motor Show to try out the latest technology and innovations alongside motoring legends.
All the big motoring brands are in attendance and this event is an opportunity for them to display their newest offering as well as providing a cursory glance to historic and iconic vehicles.
Britcar
Having just celebrated 20 years, Britcar is an endurance sports car racing and touring car racing series, it is often held at Silverstone. Think Le Mans but with unadulterated British adrenaline.
Britcar was formed after a discussion in a Nürburgring bar between Willie Moore and James Tucker. Rumour has it that James Tucker and John Veness formed the organizing European Endurance & Racing Club (EERC) with a £10 note found on the ground.
Beaulieu Motor Show
The word ‘autojumble’ was probably coined at the Beaulieu Motor Show, hosted by the National Motor Museum, car enthusiasts gather all through the summer months in the heart of New Forest, Hampshire to witness a succession of motoring events and activities.
Think Glastonbury for cars.
Goodwood Festival of Speed
In contention with the London Motor Show, the Festival of Speed calls itself the largest and most famous of all car shows in the UK. Held over a long summer weekend in Chichester, the festival is said to be an extravaganza to celebrate British motorsport. You will also be able share the experience with celebrities from the motoring world.
Goodwood features everything from Edwardian classics to the hottest Formula 1 models. Look out for the real life replicas of Wacky Races cars.
Formula 1 British Grand Prix
Do we really need to explain the British Grand Prix?
This Formula 1 race is held at Silverstone, along with the Italian Grands Prix it is the only World Championship staged continuously since it was introduced in 1950. It’s also Cargiant’s favourite Grand Prix because it produces the most British winners. British drivers have won the event 22 times, compared to the next most successful nations (Germany and Australia) with only 5 each.
Classic Motor Show
If you ever want to know what it’ll be like to be in a real time warp then head down to the Classic Motor Show at the NEC in Birmingham. With over 2000 classic cars and hundreds of trade stands, you’ll be able to meet like-minded enthusiasts for a weekend of full appreciation for the designs and engines that paved the way.
There’s also a two-day auction for those with some extra change in their pockets.
With 2017 car festival season now winding down, it has been a remarkable year for motoring enthusiasts and motor sport. For all the latest motoring news, visit our blog page for regular updates of UK car festivals in 2018.