Classic Car shows to attend in 2026

Classic Car shows remain one of the best ways to experience the market first hand. After a strong 2025 season, we are already looking ahead to the events shaping the 2026 calendar. From major national showcases to much loved local gatherings, these shows offer valuable insight, inspiration and community.

Below is our guide to the key UK Classic Car shows to attend in 2026:

Brooklands Mini Day

22 March 2026 | Brooklands Museum, Surrey

One of the first highlights of the year, Brooklands Mini Day brings together hundreds of Minis, from early Classics to modern BMW models. Set at one of Britain’s most historic motoring venues, the day includes live music, food stalls and the ever popular Test Hill ascents. Owners are encouraged to bring their cars and display them on site.

Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show

20–22 March 2026 | NEC Birmingham

A staple of the Classic Car calendar and essential for anyone interested in restoration. With more than 1,000 Classic Cars on display, the show covers everything from barn finds and live projects to concours quality examples. Club stands, specialist traders and live demonstrations make this an invaluable learning experience.

Donington Historic Festival

1–3 May 2026 | Donington Park, Leicestershire

A high quality historic racing weekend featuring pre-war cars through to touring cars. With accessible paddocks and a more relaxed atmosphere than some larger summer events, this is a favourite for those who enjoy seeing Classic Cars used as intended.

Brooklands Best of British

25 May 2026 | Brooklands Museum, Surrey

A celebration of British built vehicles across all eras. Displays range from pre-war marques such as Alvis and Sunbeam through to modern Jaguars. With family entertainment and Test Hill ascents, it offers a well balanced day out.

Beaulieu Spring Autojumble

16–17 May 2026 | Beaulieu, Hampshire

One of the UK’s best known autojumbles and a must for parts hunters. Hundreds of traders sell everything from hard to find components to vintage clothing and automobilia. It is also an excellent way to keep an eye on the second-hand market.

Goodwood Festival of Speed

9–12 July 2026 | West Sussex

The most famous motoring event in the UK. Historic racers, modern performance cars and manufacturers all take to the hill climb, supported by air displays and paddocks packed with remarkable machinery. Few events blend heritage and spectacle quite like Goodwood.

Brooklands Summer Classic Gathering and Autojumble

26 July 2026 | Brooklands Museum, Surrey

Brooklands’ annual summer celebration features a vast display of Classic vehicles alongside an autojumble. With food, music and stalls, it is an easy-going event suitable for all ages.

Cranleigh Lions Classic Car Show

August 2026 | Cranleigh, Surrey | Date TBC

A personal local favourite with a friendly, community feel. Hosting over 1,000 Classic vehicles, the show also includes an autojumble, arena displays, craft and collectables stalls, live music and family entertainment. These smaller shows often provide some of the most enjoyable conversations with owners.

Mini Festival at Brands Hatch

August 2026 | Brands Hatch Circuit, Kent | Date TBC

One of the UK’s biggest Mini celebrations, set at the iconic Brands Hatch circuit. The event combines large scale static displays with on track racing, including dedicated Mini championships and track parades. With trade stands, club displays and a strong mix of Classic and modern Minis, it offers both motorsport action and relaxed browsing in equal measure.

British Motor Show

21–23 August 2026 | Farnborough

A large scale, family friendly show combining Classic Cars, modern vehicles and live action. With themed zones, ride and drive experiences and a dedicated Supercar Paddock, it caters well to mixed interests.

Warlingham Rugby Club Classic Car & Bike Show

September 2026 | Surrey | Date TBC

A popular charity event offering a welcoming atmosphere and affordable entry. Alongside cars and bikes, visitors can enjoy live entertainment, stalls and food throughout the day.

Concours of Elegance

4–6 September 2026 | Hampton Court Palace, Surrey

One of the most prestigious events in the UK calendar. Around 60 of the world’s rarest cars are displayed in a carefully curated palace setting, with many appearing in the UK for the first time.

Minis by the Sea

September 2026 | Worthing, West Sussex | Date TBC

Held along Worthing seafront, this free entry event is organised by the West Sussex Mini Owners Club. It combines a relaxed seaside atmosphere with a strong sense of community and welcomes Minis of all ages. Informal and social, it is ideal for owners who simply enjoy using their cars.

How to choose the right show

Choosing the right event depends on what we want to gain. Large-scale shows like Goodwood offer breadth and spectacle, while local events often provide better opportunities for conversation and relaxed browsing. Restoration-focused shows are ideal for learning, while community gatherings prioritise enjoyment.

Why attend a Classic Car show?

Classic Car shows allow us to see how cars are presented, valued and enjoyed in real world settings. For buyers, they make it easier to compare the condition and originality. For owners considering selling, they offer valuable insight into presentation standards and buyer expectations.

If a show inspires you to buy, sell, or request a professional quotation, contact us directly at Phil Mires Classic Cars. We are always happy to talk about Classic Cars.

Want to find out more about the car shows we attended in 2025? We have shared highlights, photos and insights from a selection of events across the year, including:

Cranleigh Lions Classic Car Show 2025

Brooklands Motorsport Day 2025

Minis by the Sea 2025