Once you open the bonnet on the history of classic cars, there’s no going back. You’re drawn in by purring engines and soft leather, the heritage craftsmanship and special details. It’s true what they say, they don’t make them like they used to! If you share that passion, there’s no better place to enjoy classic cars than in The Cotswolds. This is the perfect setting for these sleek machines to shine.
Whizz along the gently rolling lanes with the top down, submerged in this cinematic setting. Read our Cotswold Road Trip guides for some inspiration of where to go.
If you aren’t the lucky owner of a classic car in the Cotswolds, don’t worry, you can still get up close to many prestigious models. Events where drivers and admirers can gather take place across the Cotswolds and there are opportunities to get behind the wheel yourself.
The Classic Motor Hub
Tourists descend on Bibury in their droves to see picture perfect Arlington Row, it is a classic Cotswold view. So where better for the Classic Motor Hub to be? Just outside the town this showroom is where your car ownership dreams could come true. If you’re not in the market just yet it is still well worth a visit. Events are held each month where you can rub shoulders with other fanatics and enjoy the atmosphere the Classic Motor Hub team create. While here, browse the shop for memorabilia and you can have breakfast or lunch at the club room café.
The Cotswold Barn
Most people stop by The Cotswold Barn to visit their award-winning café for a scrumptious cream tea or a belly-busting full English breakfast. Car enthusiasts however should know that monthly events are held here to satisfy your tastes in classic cars and modern supercars. If you have your own bring it on down, or just take in the countryside views highlighted behind these wonderful machines. Events include Ferrari Owner Club meet-ups, Alfa Romeo groups and car and bike meets. No matter what your vehicle of choice, there’s something for you!
Gloucestershire Vintage and Country Extravaganza – 1st-3rd August 2025
To celebrate this events 50th anniversary, the show is taking over the South Cerney Airfield for a spectacular extravaganza. Always being dragged to car shows by your other half? This is the one for you! Not only are there thousands of exhibits including steam engines, classic cars, military vehicles, historic buses, motorcycles and so much more, there is also an animal and countryside arena. Falconry demonstrations and dog shows will keep you entertained while the petrol heads in your family get their fill.
Oxford Bus Museum
Hop onboard for a slightly different bus tour! The Oxford Bus Museum explores the transport history of Oxford, and every first and third Sunday of the month during summer you can head out on a heritage bus. This is a fantastic way to get up close to one of the vintage models, and to see some of Oxford at the same time. As well as buses, there is also a collection of Morris Motors dating back to 1928.
Prescott Vintage – 2nd-3rd August 2025
Tourists and locals flock to the Prescott Speed Hill Climb every year. In August, Vintage Prescott is your chance to see the short course in action. Vintage cars take to the track where drivers show off their skills as they navigate the course. This prestigious Cotswold event is well worth heading to as the exciting day is accompanied by scenes of rolling Gloucestershire hills. During the weekend event, practice sessions are held on the Saturday with timed competition runs on the Sunday. It’s a great event for the whole family with lots of stands and fun to join in with.
Morgan Driving Tours
By now you’ve probably had your fill of just seeing the classic cars, you want to get behind the wheel! The Morgan Motor Company can give you that experience. After a bespoke factory tour you are introduced to your Morgan. With four nights of accommodation included and a planned itinerary you can relish in the joy of rolling through picturesque countryside and rural locations. Your Morgan will purr through the scenery where you’ll find incredible places to stop for photo opportunities. The only negative is having to give the car back at the end of your tour!