The upcoming Regent Street Motor Show is one of the major highlights of the year for automotive fans and offers lots to see and do during your next trip to London. In this blog, we’ll take a quick look at the event and what to expect so you can plan your visit safe in the knowledge you know all there is to know…
The show is a celebration of 145 years of motoring, and includes a vast selection of cars including classic, vintage, veteran and modern vehicles. During the show, visitors will be able to see this selection up close, alongside a range of entertainment and interactive displays which help bring their history and character to vivid life.
The event has been designed to be family friendly and will be taking place on the pedestrianised Regent Street for easy access and added opportunities to take part. Surrounded by shopping opportunities, the event is also 100% free to visit – making it a great day out for guests at the Montcalm Royal London House.
The show first got started back in 2005, alongside the first ever Veteran Car Run International Concours, which took place on Regent Street. Featuring vehicles from all over the world, it took place before the prestigious London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.
These early origins subsequently led to the development of the Regent Street Motor Show, which launched officially in 2010. Since then, the event has provided a fantastic showcase for vehicles from the 21st century, 19th century and 20th century, with both veteran models and new designs celebrated and embraced by both organisers and attendees. There is also a glimpse at the future of car design, which is sure to impress motor aficionados staying locally.
The event itself takes place on the 2nd November 2019. It’s a Saturday, so weekend visitors will be able to explore the local area while staying at the Montcalm hotel and could even pick up a few Christmas gifts and bargains on the way. The show will be open from 10:30 am – 4 pm.
The Regent Street Motor Show will bring together 100 vehicles which date before 1905, offering a wealth of classic cars to explore in depth. The event also acts as a precursor to the upcoming Bonham’s London to Brighton Veterans Car Run, which takes place the day after. And is the longest-running motoring event in the world.
In addition, visitors can enjoy a selection of classic cars and modern cars, as well as a range of displays and exhibitions which discuss and detail the cars of the future. Motoring enthusiasts of all ages will have lots to keep them entertained and can finish their visit with a trip to The Aviary London to discuss the things they’ve seen and experienced during the day over a few drinks.
The full itinerary of events for 2019 has not yet been released, but 2018 was one of the busiest years yet, and this year is sure to be even more special!
The Classic Motoring Zone is a must-see for fans of vintage vehicles, and there are plenty on display! Last year saw a guest appearance from Herbie, as well as the Jaguar XJ, and celebrations for the 70th anniversary of the XK120.
Stand-out vehicles included motors from the world of classic motor racing, and there was also the opportunity to chat with selection of British Rally Championship winners and the team from Silverstone Classic.
All of this helped to create a fantastic atmosphere for true car fans, and for those who prefer their vehicles to date from even earlier, there were over 100 horseless carriages which pre-dated 1905, and an awards presentation hosted by TV-favourite Alan Titchmarsh.
Last year saw a series of great activities including a Kids Zone where younger visitors could get to grips with motoring by taking part in safe go-karting. There was also a pit stop challenge, which encouraged children to help design, build and race an electric car. This is a fantastic way to encourage young talent to be imaginative and creative.
The famous DeLorean time machine car from the Back to the Future film franchise also helped bring some welcome Hollywood glamour to the event.
Additional activities for children included a full-scale Scalextric track outside Hamleys Toy Shop, while song and dance troupe West End Kids provided entertainment.
There’s sure to be lots more to see and do at this year’s event, and for 2018 there were key vehicles from the American car scene as well as the chance to win a trip to the world-famous Route 66. The Motoring Today Zone also showcased fantastic vehicles from the likes of Triumph and Renault.
This is a unique opportunity to get closer to the heritage and history of some of the key vehicles which have helped pioneer and transform the motoring world, as well as giving all ages the chance to get involved in their own unique and distinctive ways.
The shops along Regent Street will still be open, which means that you can combine your trip with a shopping excursion or a browse in one of the city’s top retail destinations. We recommend a spot of Christmas shopping, as there are sure to be lots of great bargains on offer. For those feeling extra adventurous, you can always make the most of Montcalm spa deals before heading out on your shopping excursion.
The event itself is free, but there will be a modest charge for specific experiences including the Top Gear Simulator. These charges will be listed at specific stands and venues throughout the show.
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