Best classic car events this autumn

27 October 2022

There’s an incredible choice of classic car events scheduled across the UK for autumn 2022. Lancaster Insurance Services gives you a rundown of some of the best.

As the leaves change colour and the weather takes a cooler turn, a trip to a classic car event makes a wonderful day out for any car enthusiast. Apart from the rows of stunning vehicles, there's always the opportunity to meet and chat with fellow classic car fans. You might even pick up an invaluable piece of advice or that elusive part you've been searching for.

And if you decide to take along your own classic to show off then you’ll need the right cover. Not all classic car insurance quotes in the UK include static show cover but here at Lancaster Insurance Services it can come as standard.

Talk to the specialists today to make sure your pride and joy is protected from accident or damage while at an event.

5 handy hints to make the most of a classic car event

Need some inspiration to finish that latest restoration project? Take a break at a classic car event this autumn and rev yourself up for the new year!

If you haven’t been to a show for a while, or you’re new to the classic car scene, here are a few top tips for getting the most out of car events.

1. Plan ahead - especially for larger events

Some of the larger events will attract big crowds, and with so much to see it’s possible to miss out if you haven’t done your research.

Are there any talks or interviews with celebrity guests that you want to listen to? Which displays, showcases, auctions, sales and competitions do you plan on visiting? If you’re a member of a car club, then you might want to visit their stand to offer your support and chat to like-minded car folk.

Many of these activities might not require booking beforehand but don’t rely on just turning up on the day. As well as booking your entrance tickets, travel and car parking in advance there might be other opportunities that need to be pre-booked.

For instance, have you ever wanted to take a test ride in your favourite classic car? At the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show this November, you need to reserve your HERO-ERA Arrive & Drive slot to avoid disappointment. This year’s options include a ride in a Triumph TR4A, a 1974 MG B Roadster or even a Lancia Delta Integrale from 1990!

Booking in advance can often save yourself time, effort and even a few pounds into the bargain.

Remember, if you want to exhibit your own car at any event, you’ll need specialist cover. When getting classic car insurance quotes in the UK, not all of them will include static show insurance so don’t waste time – come straight to the specialists at Lancaster Insurance Services to get the cover you need.

2. Keep pets and children under control

dog laying on a bed in a campervan]

Classic car owners are a friendly bunch who love to see the next generation of enthusiasts starting their life-long passion for automobiles. These events are a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to see some amazing vehicles and take part in a range of action-packed events.

However, when owners have lavished countless hours and a fair amount of cash on their beloved motors the potential for costly accidents is high. Sticky fingers are a recipe for upset and disaster when lovingly restored paintwork is concerned.

Cars and dogs have always gone well together, and you’ll regularly see well-behaved pooches enjoying events with their owners.

However, be aware dogs should always be kept on a lead to prevent accidents and damage. Before attending a classic car event, it’s a good idea to check the event’s FAQs to make sure dogs are allowed.

3. Take extra care yourself

Whether you’re taking a classic for a spin or just having a closer look, coat zips, bracelets, watches, heels and so on can cause significant damage. When you’re so engrossed, it’s all too easy to forget you’re wearing something potentially harmful.

Even a light knock or bump can dent delicate panels or scratch precious paintwork. If a crowd has developed around your must-see vehicle, take a break and come back later.

Remember, don’t be irritated if an owner asks you to step back. They just love their car and want everyone to be able to enjoy it from a safe distance.

4. Ask plenty of questions

Owners who have taken so many hours over their vehicles will be only too happy to chat to fellow enthusiasts and answer any questions you have about their cars. Who knows, you might find out something fascinating or very useful to your own car restoration project.

Many classic car fans have a particular make or model they’re interested in. If you do, then there could be a car club stand at the event perfect for you. And don’t forget, if you’re a car club member then you might get cheaper classic car insurance quotes in the UK.

Here at Lancaster Insurance Services, we partner with many car clubs up and down the country to give members a discount on their cover. Talk to the team today when you’re getting classic car insurance quotes in the UK.

5. Be prepared!

Some of these classic car events can last the best part of the day, so it pays to think about your packing before you set off. Make sure you include:

  • Waterproof coat, fleece and comfortable shoes

    No one wants to be soggy, cold and miserable, right? The wind can really pick up if you’re walking around a circuit all day. Make sure you take layers for the autumn and winter and an umbrella for shade in the summer!
  • Camera

    You’ll want to take some shots of all the amazing cars you’re about to see so make sure you have your camera phone or traditional snapper at the ready. If you’re going to share shots on social media, ask the owner’s permission first.
  • Cash

    From entrance fees and spare parts to drinks, snacks and souvenirs, chances are you’ll need some cash when attending a car event, especially a smaller, local show.
  • Folding chair

    You’ll be on your feet a lot, especially if you’re at a larger event or out on a circuit. With clean, dry places to sit few and far between, carrying a folding chair will help you take the strain off and relax.

Autumn classic car events for your diary

Here are some of the best classic car events coming up in the next three months. Just remember to check each event’s website before you travel to make sure they’re going ahead.

Meet at Morgan - Autumn Classics
When: 15th October 2022
Where: The Morgan Experience Centre, Malvern, Worcestershire

Held at the Morgan Experience Centre this autumn-themed event takes place at the foot of the beautiful Malvern Hills. You’ll see a thrilling range of legendary or unusual classic cars or bikes on special display.

While you’re there you might want to take part in a Morgan factory tour or a Morgan Experience drive. Book ahead to avoid disappointment. And don’t miss the on-site shop, restaurant and museum, too.

Historic Rally Festival
When: 15th to 16th October 2022
Where: Weston Park, Shropshire

This year the action-packed Historic Rally Festival has moved to an October date offering rally enthusiasts something to look forward to in these colder months. As the only multi-venue Motorsport UK permitted rally there’s no better place to witness historic rally cars tackling historic rallying stages.

Bigger and better than ever before, the 2022 edition will feature dusk and night-time stages added for the first time. To catch these, head to the rally’s traditional home of Weston Park on Saturday.

As well as Weston Park, two days of rally stages will also take place at Telford and Ironbridge Power Station. There promises to be surprises aplenty at this brilliant event.

Classic Cars on the Beach
When: 16th October
Where: City Beach, Marine Parade, Southend, Essex

Organised by the Southend & District Classic Car Club, a great day out at this beach-based event is the perfect way to blow away any cobwebs on your classic motor.

International Jaguar Spares Day
When: 16th October 2022
Where: Stoneleigh Park Exhibition and Conference Centre, Nr Coventry, Warwickshire

If you’ve got a vintage Jaguar or Daimler that you’re working on, then you really have to come to this amazing event. It’s probably the biggest Jaguar and Daimler spares event anywhere in the world!

Thousands of visitors will pick their way through over 200 stalls bursting with parts from established major Jaguar parts suppliers, restoration specialists, replica manufacturers and private garage clearances.

Whether you’re just doing a spot of routine servicing and maintenance or a major restoration, you might find that elusive part here. Or perhaps you’ve got a garage full of miscellaneous spares you need clearing? This might be the place to swap them.

Auto e Moto d’Epoca
When: 20th to 23rd October 2022
Where: Padua, Italy

Fancy a trip to Italy? Well, there’s a superb classic car event here, too. Over 30 years after it was founded as a vintage car market, the Auto e Moto d’Epoca is now a major international event and perhaps the largest vintage car market in continental Europe.

As well as over 4,000 stunning cars for sale, there are around 1,600 exhibitors present, all looking to share their excitement and enthusiasm with you.

If you decide to make the trip to Padua in your classic, then be sure that your classic car insurance quotes in the UK include free EU cover. Insurance arranged by Lancaster Insurance Services can cover you for up to 90 days for a trip abroad.

Motor Racing Legends at Silverstone
When: 22nd and 23rd October
Where: Silverstone Race Circuit

If you like to see some action mixed in with the static displays, check out the Motor Racing Legends at Silverstone.

See 60s sports cars take on the challenge of a 3-hour endurance race and much, much more at this classic event at the historic circuit.

There will be Ford GT40s in the Amon Cup and historic wheel-to-wheel racing throughout the whole weekend. Kids under 15 go free so why not take your little ones along and inspire the next generation of racers?

Ace Cafe Classic Police Vehicles Cops n’ Robbers
When: 29th October 2022
Where: Ace Café London, Ace Corner, Stonebridge, London

Ace Cafe London has an incredible array of events happening every month that are well worth checking out. If you love cars, motorcycles and rock 'n roll then this is the place to come.

Whether Porsche, Harley Davidson, Aston Martin or VW you’ll have a great time at one of these Ace Café meets.

Castle Semple Car Show
When: 30th October 2022
Where: Castle Semple Loch, Lochwinnoch, Renfrewshire, Scotland

Returning to the shores of Castle Semple Loch for its 10th year, there can be few more stunning locations for a car show than this.

Raising money for a local hospice, you’ll be doing good while admiring the vast array of classics on display.

Malvern 4×4, Land Rover & Vintage Spares Day
When: 30th October 2022
Where: Three Counties Showground, Malvern, Worcestershire

Lovers of vintage Land Rovers will spend hours sorting through the biggest Land Rover Autojumble in Europe. With hundreds of traders, there’s pretty much everything a Land Rover enthusiast could want.

London to Brighton Veteran Car Run
When: 6th November 2022
Where: From London’s Hyde Park to Brighton seafront

Even if you’re not taking part, the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is a great event to attend as a spectator. Now in its 126th year, this is the world’s oldest motoring event, and is as popular as ever.

Hundreds of vehicles built before 1905 take part in the 60-mile run that winds through the lanes of Surrey and Sussex before arriving at Madeira Drive in Brighton. Popular viewing spots along the route include Brighton Road in Coulsdon, the junction of Hooley Lane and the A23 just south of Redhill, and Crawley town centre.

Haynes Breakfast Club
When: 6th November 2022
Where: Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford, Yeovil

One of the biggest and best-known Breakfast Clubs in the southwest, the Haynes meet-up is a great place to see a wide range of classics as you tuck into a delicious breakfast bap!

Usually taking place on the first Sunday of each month, all car and bike marques are welcome at this inclusive event.

Starting at 8am until midday, entrance is via pre-booked tickets only, so get yours via the website before you set off. Why not stay a while and check out the museum while you’re here?

The Fleet Air Arm Museum at Yeovilton is less than 10 minutes away, too, if you want to make a day of it.

Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show
When: 11th to 13th November 2022
Where: The National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, West Midlands

The highlight in every classic car owner’s calendar, the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show is the UK’s largest indoor classic car event. Even if we do say so ourselves!

In addition to the rare cars and bikes that fill the halls of Birmingham’s NEC, there are over 600 traders, dealers and autojumbles, a huge number of classic car club stands, a live stage, an auction, and so much more.

Come and say hello at the Lancaster Insurance Services stand and find out more about our classic car insurance quotes in the UK. Our friendly team can talk you through all the benefits of insuring your classic through us.

InterClassics Brussels
When: 19th to 21st November 2022
Where: Brussels, Belgium

InterClassics Brussels is always a great classic car extravaganza, but this year it’s even more special. In honour of Ferrari’s 75th anniversary, InterClassics is presenting an incredible line-up of cars from the world’s best known sports car manufacturer.

Mercedes Benz Club 70th Anniversary
When: 26th November 2022
Where: Newhailes House & Garden, Musselburgh, East Lothian

2022 is the 70th anniversary of the Mercedes Benz Club UK, which is the oldest and most prestigious car club in the world. So, if you want to enjoy an incredible display of classic Mercedes Benz from the past seven decades then this is the place to come.

Set in the heart of this stunning National Trust for Scotland estate in East Lothian, there are few better places to come for a day of car spotting. As well as iconic sports convertibles, rugged four-wheel drives and luxurious limousines, there’s also the location itself to explore.

Newhailes House played a prominent role in the Scottish Enlightenment and is a treasure trove of curiosities. With views across the River Forth it’s the perfect showcase for Mercedes Benz’s most iconic models from the past.

Get classic car insurance quotes in the UK from Lancaster Insurance Services

campervan parked next to a mountain

We mentioned at the start that static show and historic rally cover come as part of our classic car insurance quotes in the UK here at Lancaster Insurance Services. Other benefits can include:

  • Laid-up cover available for £18
  • 24-hour claims helpline
  • Car club member discounts
  • Choice of repairer
  • Salvage retention
  • Free EU cover up to 90 days
  • Two-year Agreed Valuation
  • UK-based call centre
  • Limited mileage discounts

Contact us to arrange classic car insurance quotes in the UK today.