How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Concours of Elegance 2026 at Hampton Court Palace

Every September, Hampton Court Palace becomes home to one of the world’s most prestigious automotive celebrations. For 2026, the Concours of Elegance promises another unforgettable gathering of rare classics, historic grand tourers and exceptional collector cars.

Running from 4-6 September 2026, the event will once again transform the palace gardens into a showcase of automotive craftsmanship. Around 60 extraordinary concours cars will headline the display, while hundreds of additional classics, supercars and club vehicles will complete one of the UK’s most impressive motoring weekends.

Whether you are a lifelong collector or simply appreciate beautiful cars, this year’s event offers plenty to enjoy.

A World-Class Collection in a Royal Setting

Few venues suit an automotive concours quite like Hampton Court Palace.

The former home of Henry VIII provides a spectacular backdrop for cars that represent the very best of automotive history. Each vehicle is carefully selected, with many appearing in Britain for the first time.

Unlike many classic car events, Concours of Elegance focuses on quality rather than quantity. Every concours entrant has a remarkable story, whether it is linked to motorsport, design, engineering or famous ownership.

Adding to the atmosphere, the event brings together owners from around the world, creating a relaxed environment where visitors can admire some of the rarest cars ever built.

Exceptional Cars Already Confirmed

Several headline cars have already been announced ahead of September.

Among the biggest attractions is an exceptionally original 1967 Ferrari 330 GTC. The award-winning grand tourer still wears its factory paint and interior, making it one of the most authentic surviving examples anywhere in the world.

Another highlight is a beautifully preserved 1923 Rolls-Royce 20HP, while visitors can also expect historically important Aston Martins, a rare 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante, remarkable Bristol and Monteverdi models, plus a special celebration marking 60 years of the Jensen Interceptor.

More vehicle announcements are expected throughout the summer, meaning the final concours line-up will be even more impressive.

Much More Than the Main Concours

The famous concours display is only part of the experience.

Across the palace grounds, visitors will find almost 500 additional luxury, performance and classic cars representing every era of motoring.

Popular features returning for 2026 include:

• The Club Trophy, featuring outstanding examples from Britain’s leading car clubs.
• Thirty Under 30, celebrating younger enthusiasts and cars built between 1900 and 1999.
• The Levitt Concours, highlighting cars owned and driven by women.
• Junior Concours, showcasing beautifully crafted half-scale, pedal, electric and petrol-powered children’s cars.

Together, these displays ensure there is something for every visitor, regardless of age or automotive taste.

A Different Way to Crown Best of Show

One feature continues to set Concours of Elegance apart from almost every other concours event.

Rather than relying on professional judges, the owners themselves decide the winner.

Each entrant votes for another car on display, creating a competition built on mutual respect and appreciation among collectors. The winning car receives the coveted Best of Show title, chosen by those who understand these remarkable machines better than anyone else.

Luxury Beyond the Cars

The experience extends well beyond the concours lawn.

Visitors can enjoy premium hospitality inside the exclusive Club Concours enclosure, overlooking the main display. Packages include breakfast, a Champagne reception, a three-course lunch with fine wines, afternoon cream tea, VIP parking and an official event catalogue.

Alternatively, guests can pre-order a Fortnum & Mason picnic to enjoy in the palace gardens or sample food from a wide range of specialist vendors, cafés and bars throughout the event.

Planning Your Visit

Concours of Elegance 2026 takes place from Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September at Hampton Court Palace.

Advance booking is required, as tickets are not sold on the gate. Visitors can also reserve parking, hospitality packages and official event extras before arriving.

Opening times are:

• Friday: 10:00am-6:00pm
• Saturday: 10:00am-6:00pm
• Sunday: 10:00am-5:00pm

Those arriving in a pre-1990 classic can also benefit from dedicated complimentary parking, subject to registration.

Why Concours of Elegance Stands Out + Win Tickets to This Incredible Event – Competition Coming Soon

Britain hosts many excellent motoring events throughout the year. However, Concours of Elegance occupies a unique position.

The combination of royal surroundings, carefully curated vehicles and relaxed atmosphere creates an experience unlike any other. Visitors are not simply viewing cars behind barriers. They are exploring automotive history presented by the people who preserve it.

That approach has helped establish Concours of Elegance as one of Europe’s leading concours events and a highlight of the UK’s automotive calendar.

We are about to launch an exclusive ticket competition for our loyal readers and followers. Don’t miss your chance to win a pair of complimentary tickets to Concours of Elegance 2026.

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Conclusion

Concours of Elegance 2026 is already shaping up to be another outstanding celebration of automotive excellence. From award-winning Ferraris and historic Aston Martins to rare Bugattis and elegant Rolls-Royces, the event promises an exceptional mix of beauty, craftsmanship and history.

Couple that with the stunning surroundings of Hampton Court Palace, and it is easy to see why enthusiasts travel from across the world to attend each September.

Which confirmed car are you most excited to see? Which marque do you hope joins the line-up before September? And if you could bring one classic to Hampton Court Palace, what would it be? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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