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Find out all the details of the seventh Concours of Elegance at the historic Hampton Court Palace
By Rose Adams | 21 June 2018 | Cars & Yachts
The Concours of Elegance will bring together an exceptional array of the world’s rarest collector’s cars at the historic Hampton Court Palace
* Since it began back in 2012, Concours of Elegance has been an exciting fixture on every classic car enthusiast’s social calendar
Since it began back in 2012, Concours of Elegance has been an exciting fixture on every classic car enthusiast’s social calendar. Famed as the only motoring event to have been granted access to the grounds of Windsor Castle, the event takes place this year at the equally historic Hampton Court Palace, the former home of Henry VIII.
Likened to a ‘beauty pageant’ for automobiles, Concours of Elegance is notorious for showcasing priceless cars from across the globe – and never failing to enthral crowds. The 2018 show – which runs from 31 August to 2 September – will boast a selection of 1,000 of the finest and rarest motor cars from around the world, many of which will be showing in the UK for the first time.
Another important draw of Concours of Elegance, presented by A Lange & Söhne, is its commitment to fundraising. To date, the event has raised more than £1,250,000 for its chosen charities. Funds generated from this year’s event will be donated to Marie Curie and Springfield Youth Club Hackney.
So, what can we expect this year’s event? The main concours area will bring together 60 of the world’s rarest and most exclusive cars, presented by their owners who will narrate their stories from start to finish – a sure fire way to get guests’ engines revving. >>
Related: Golden wheels – The classic cars putting other investments in the shade
* Since it began back in 2012, Concours of Elegance has been an exciting fixture on every classic car enthusiast’s social calendar
And as 2018 marks a monumental 70 years since the introduction of the Jaguar’s iconic XK120, the brand will put together a special showcase of finest XK models ever built will be on display – from the XK120 Roadster to the XK150 Fixed Head Coupé. Another focal point will be the central stage, which will display a selection of special feature cars, as well as the live stage which will showcase some of the most iconic cars ever produced.
While the event’s royal setting has frequently changed – it was held at Windsor Castle in 2012, St James's Palace in 2013 and The Palace of Holyroodhouse in 2015 – the competitive spirit of each exhibitor has remained, as every driver eagerly showcases their product of innovative motoring design in a bid to win the coveted accolade of Best of Show. Examples of those vying for the top prize this year include a 1903 Panhard et Levassor and a 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Taj Mahal, alongside a Ferrari 250 GT Lusso, once owned by actor Steve McQueen.
In order to participate, cars must be invited to attend, with the final decision on acceptances made by the event’s Steering Committee, made up of world-renowned motoring experts. Winners are then chosen not by an external panel of judges, but by the owners of the cars showcasing at the event – a fine example of why Concours of Elegance is so popular among motoring enthusiasts.