London Classic Car Show to return in 2016

Organisers of the inaugural London Classic Car Show, which closed its doors on Sunday (11 January) after a highly successful three-day run, have announced that the event will return in 2016 – and have promised to make it even bigger and better. 

‘The feedback from visitors and exhibitors has been universally positive,’ according to event director Bas Bungish. ‘And the great news is not just that we’ll be back next year, but also that the 2016 London Classic Car Show will be at least 50 per cent bigger.’

This year’s show didn’t short-change anyone when it came to celebrity-spotting, with car fanatics like TV chef James Martin and presenter Chris Evans rubbing shoulders with Top Gear’s James May and a host of big names from the world of motorsport – including Martin Brundle and David Coulthard.

What really set the show apart from other indoor events, however, was its Grand Avenue feature, which ran the entire length of the hall at Docklands-based ExCeL and enabled classics of all types and ages to be put through their paces – from veteran machines to classic Formula 1 cars. It was, however, a Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder – once owned by film star James Coburn and valued at more than £10m – that impressed visitors the most, picking up the People’s Choice Award in the process.

An impressive 25,000 visitors attended the show, with exhibiting dealers reporting brisk business throughout the three days. Among the cars sold were a £1.5m Ferrari, three £500,000 Aston Martins and a £500,000 Jaguar E-type. Citroen, meanwhile, used the event to kick-start its celebrations for the legendary DS’s 60th anniversary year. 

Next year’s London Classic Car Show will take place once again at ExCeL, albeit slightly later (February 18th to 21st). Make a note in your diary now.

DID YOU GO to this year’s London Classic Car Show? What were the highlights for you? Have your say below or send an email to keith.moody@honestjohn.co.uk.