Date: 13 November, 2015
Location: NEC, Birmingham, B40 1QA
The sheer scale of this mega-classic show alone is enough to tempt even the most cynical of car buffs to venture out.
When we tell you that it boasts two pavilions, six halls, 1,800 classic cars, 250 car organisations and 300 classic motorcycles you start to get some idea of its scope.
And that’s before we add that it also has the UK’s largest under-cover trader and autojumble village.
This three-day event is a must for anyone with a thirst for classic cars or those contemplating a move into the world of historic vehicles.
Our top picks
- Silverstone Auctions: Saturdays and Sundays at the NEC Classic Motor Show are traditionally graced by this most prestigious of auctions. Last year saw £4.5 million worth of machines go under the hammer. Some absolute head-turners are promised this year.
- Dream rides: Does a ride in a Bentley, supercar or Vintage Ford tickle your fancy? Then indulge your wildest automotive fantasy and help raise money for a worthy children’s charity into the bargain. There are plenty of dream cars to choose from. These include Porsches, Ferraris, Cobras, Maseratis, Aston Martins, Jaguars, MGs and Lamborghinis. Go on - treat yourself!
- Classic motorbike show: This roaring feature brings classics, moderns, veterans and vintages under the same roof. There’s also that perennial favourite, the Wall of Death, a gravity-defying feature which sees bikes climb an 18ft-high wall.
- Luxury cars: Stunning machines more commonly seen in Cannes and Monaco grace Birmingham for three dreamy days. Imagine your dream classic line-up. Chances are that you can see most of them here, from Ferrari to Porsche, from Bentley to Alfa Romeo Spider. It’s the automotive equivalent of the kiddies’ sweet shop.
Best of the rest
- Restoration theatre: Everything you wanted to know about renovating but were afraid to ask - courtesy of Leeds City College specialists.
- Wheelers Dealers’ live stage: The Discovery Channel’s hit TV programme sends Edd China and Mike Brewer to bring you classic motor parades, handy tips, special guests, game shows and practical challenges to keep the crowds entertained.
- Car clubs: At least 250 clubs are expected at the NEC. What better place to network, find kindred spirits or even join a club yourself?
- Trade stands/autojumble: The NEC becomes an Aladdin’s cave of classic spare parts for three days
So how do I get a ticket?
Tickets cost £20 per weekend day for adults, £26.50 for the Friday or £56.50 for a three-day pass.
They cost £11 per weekend day for children aged between 5 and 15 and £12 for the Friday. Family tickets cost £47 each for Saturdays and Sundays and this includes three children and two adults.
As usual, prices are more expensive turning up on the day itself.
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