About London to Brighton Veteran Car Run
As dawn breaks over the capital, the distinctive sputter and clatter of veteran engines heralds the arrival of an extraordinary assembly of pioneering vehicles. Witnessing them in action is like stepping back in time!
The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run traces its roots back to 1896 when the “Emancipation Run” was first organised. This historic event was held to celebrate the passing of the Locomotives on Highways Act, which raised the speed limit for automobiles from 4 mph to 14 mph and abolished the requirement for a person carrying a red flag to walk in front of the vehicles. Consequently, the car run begins with the traditional tearing of the red flag ceremony at the start line.
The Route and Highlights
The route for the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run covers approximately 60 miles, starting from Hyde Park in London and ending on Brighton’s picturesque seafront.
With over 300 entries, the route is split into two to alleviate congestion. Half cross Westminster Bridge before joining the A23 via Kennington, Brixton and Streatham. The remaining cars cross the Thames over the Lambeth Bridge and then follow the A3, A24, A217 and A236 over Clapham Common and then onto Tooting and Mitcham.
The routes then reunite on the A236 north of Croydon, with all the cars travelling together as they continue their journey south through Surrey. This section of the route also includes the only competitive aspect of the event in which drivers aim to get as close to a chosen average speed as possible.
As the cars advance deeper into rural Sussex, they pass through the picturesque villages of the Sussex South Downs.
The final leg of the route snakes down the A23 into Brighton, where competitors are welcomed at the finish line on Madeira Drive with a warming wintry hot toddy of Aberfeldy single malt whisky.
The fastest finishers are expected to reach their destination at around 10:00am, although there is a 4:30pm cut-off for those who wish to receive a finisher’s medal. There are no awards based on finishing order or specific timings.
A Community of Car Enthusiasts
The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run attracts an impressive array of participants both from the United Kingdom and abroad. Many will be steered by famous drivers who are keen to soak in the unique, historic atmosphere of the Veteran Car Run. Owners of pre-1905 vehicles eagerly take part in this event, showcasing their lovingly restored vintage cars. The event serves as a testament to the dedication and passion of these car enthusiasts who painstakingly preserve these automotive relics, ensuring their historical significance lives on.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the event is the sense of camaraderie among participants and spectators alike. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran car owner or a curious onlooker, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a community of passionate individuals who share a deep appreciation for automotive history. Engage in conversations, swap stories and forge connections with like-minded enthusiasts who will enrich your experience.
Look Out For These
Designed to mimic the look of the UK’s old paper car tax disc, this ingenious idea allows you to easily learn about the car’s history, using your smartphone’s camera to scan its unique QR code to access the information the owner has chosen to share with you.
Conclusion
The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run offers a unique opportunity to witness automotive history in motion. With its rich heritage, stunning vintage cars, and picturesque route, this event is a must-see for both car enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of the past. So save the date Sunday, 5th November 2023 – London to Brighton Veteran Car Run and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey back in time.
If you have a spare bob or two, there’s still time to enter the 2023 Veteran Car Run by bidding on one of these vehicles that has already been registered by Bonhams: The Golden Age of Motoring.
