London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2024 in England

The Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is one of the most atmospheric events of the world of old-timers. The motor rally from London to Brighton, taking place on the first Sunday in November since 1896, is considered the most beautiful retro car rally in the world.

For the first time, this rally was held in commemoration of the cancellation of the Locomotive Act, which limited the maximum speed of self-propelled wagons on the roads to 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) per hour. The conservative British are very fond of this event and make it a real retro show.

London to Brighton Veteran Car Run Highlights

Participants of the race should be dressed in clothes appropriate to the time of the making of their cars, which adds to the special charm event. All cars are in excellent condition and can easily withstand the load of the 60-mile journey from the capital to the coast. By tradition, the participants of the "Veterans Rally" are nominated from London's Hyde Park at dawn. The route is 60 miles (96 kilometers). Participation in the rally has become a family tradition, which is passed down from generation to generation along with the machine itself.

Spots to Watch and Run Time

Attendees will find two official paddocks along the route. Spectators can observe the vintage vehicles close enough from behind safety barriers in Hyde Park and Madeira Drive. Besides, you can watch the vehicles on the move as the route passes through some charming villages.

Participating veteran cars show up in the Hyde Park paddock from 6 am and in the finish paddock in Brighton from just before 10 am and then throughout the day until the paddock closes at 4:30 pm.

Other Events

Besides the actual Veteran Car Run, you might be interested in attending some events preceding the Route day—Motoring Forum by Royal Automobile Club, Bonhams Veteran Car Run Sale, participants' reception, and Regent Street Motor Show.

History

The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is a renowned annual event in British motoring history. Established in 1896, it commemorates the Emancipation Run of November 14, 1896, which celebrated the passing of the Locomotives on Highways Act. This Act raised the speed limit for "light locomotives" from 4 to 14 mph and abolished the requirement for these vehicles to be preceded by a person on foot carrying a red flag.

Over the years, the event has grown in popularity and prestige. It's not a race, but a test of endurance for both the vintage vehicles and their drivers. Participants come from all over the world, showcasing a remarkable array of early automobiles.