Prescott's 80th Anniversary & Bugatti Festival 2018

This weekend, the eyes of classic car enthusiasts across the world will be fixed on Prescott as the legendary venue celebrates its 80^th anniversary.

This year’s Bugatti Festival promises to be the best yet, with a mass meeting planned for as many former hill climb record-holders as possible.

As we look forward to the birthday celebrations this Saturday (July 14), we take a look back at the history of the famous venue and how you can enjoy this year’s festivities.

Early beginnings

The Prescott track is owned by the Bugatti Owners’ Club (BOC), which bought the land in 1937.

Prior to moving to their Gloucestershire home, the BOC had run events in Lewes, Sussex and Chalfont St Peter in Buckinghamshire.

The very first event at Prescott was held in April 1938 on what is now called the Short Course, with the inaugural meeting taking place that May when Arthur Baron set a time of 50.70 seconds on a supercharged Bugatti.

The Second World War brought a halt to all events at Prescott in September 1939, with the course closed until 1946 when events started back up.

Sir Stirling Moss, the former F1 driver, took part at Prescott for the first time in 1948, where he came fourth out of 12 in the 500cc class.

Stunning setting

Since then, Prescott has gone from strength to strength as motorists and enthusiasts alike have fallen in love with the beautiful course, set in 60 acres of stunning Cotswold countryside.

Over the course of the 1127-yard run, the hill climb rises over 200 feet via a series of short straights, fast and slow corners, and a dramatic hairpin turn.

Spectators can take in the action at several great viewpoints along the length of the course, while the restaurant terrace also provides a great lookout over the action.

Modern racing cars can complete the course in times of around 36 seconds, although anyone visiting this weekend will be hoping to see that record broken.

Footman James is proudly sponsoring this year’s event, with advanced tickets still available to purchase on the official website. Alternatively, you can pick them up on the day when arriving at the venue.

We will be on hand to help you with all your classic car insurance questions, so, why not come over and say hello?

We look forward to seeing you there!