The Ultimate Guide to Car Shows in North East England 2026
- Kelly
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
Whether you have a little one obsessed with Lightning McQueen, a teenager into modified motors, or a Grandad who loves reminiscing over vintage Jaguars, a car show is a fantastic way to spend a weekend in the North East.
There is something so nostalgic about wandering through a field of shiny chrome with an ice cream in hand! We’ve rounded up the very best car shows, rallies, and vintage meets across the region for the 2026 season.
Top Tip: Many of these events are held at heritage sites like Raby Castle or Beamish, meaning you get a full day out with playgrounds and gardens included in your ticket!
April: The Season Kick-Off
5th April: Classic Car Rally at Ryhope Engines Museum
A local favourite! Watch the massive beam engines in steam while admiring the cars.
19th April: Classic & Vintage Vehicle Day – Bellingham Heritage Centre
Head to the North Tyne for "Tea on the Train" and some beautiful vintage gems.
26th April: Belford Classic Car Show – South Meadows Caravan Park
May: Engines and Sunshine
3rd May: Sports Cars in the Park – Newby Hall
Perfect for fans of Ferraris and Lamborghinis. Plus, Newby Hall has one of the best adventure playgrounds in the North!
9th May: Classic to Modern Motor Show – Croft Circuit
For those who like things a bit faster.
10th May: North East Restoration Club Open Day
See the "behind the scenes" of car restoration.
17th May: Fins 'n' Chrome – Gypsies Green, South Shields
Expect amazing American classics and 50s vibes right by the seaside.
23rd May: Classic Car & Bike Show – Ushaw Historic House
A stunning backdrop for photos.
23rd May: Classic & Vintage Vehicle Rally – Hopetown Darlington
Explore Darlington’s brand-new rail heritage quarter while you’re there!
24th May: Classic Car Show – Thornton Le Dale
The home of Bangers & Cash! A must for TV fans.
25th May: Yorkshire Classic & Performance Motor Show – Scampston Hall
30th & 31st May: Truckfest North East – Wolsingham Show Ground
This is huge! Monster trucks, stunts, and giant rigs. The kids will love it.
31st May: Smiles for Miles – Hardwick Hall
A wonderful event for a great cause.
June: Fathers' Day Specials
7th June: Multiple Events!
Choose between West Hartlepool RFC, Saltburn Classic Vehicle Show (great for a beach day!), or Skipton Car Show.
13th June: Kulturschock – Gateshead International Stadium
Focusing on modified and performance cars.
14th June: Yorkshire Modified Car Show – Scampston Hall
21st June (Fathers' Day): Beamish Museum & Castle Howard
Both locations are hosting car shows today. Beamish is always a winner as you can ride the trams too!
27th & 28th June:Chester-le-Street Steam and Vintage Fair
Steam engines, vintage cars, and a real "fairground" feel.
28th June: Classic Car Show – Raby Castle
The deer park and the new "Rising” development make this a top-tier family day out.
July: Summer Rallies
5th July: Cumbria Auto Show – Carlisle
11th July: Vintage Car Rally – Darlington Town Centre
Free to attend and perfect for combining with a bit of shopping.
19th July: Historic Vehicle Rally – Newby Hall
One of the biggest in the North with over 1,000 cars!
25 & 26th July: Pickering Motor Show
A great one for the full weekend.
26th July: Auto Italia – Raby Castle
A touch of Italian style in County Durham. Think Fiats, Alfas, and Ferraris.
26th July: Ripon Classic Car Gathering – Ripon Racecourse
August & September: Summer Finales
16th August: Classic & Performance Motor Show – Hexham
A beautiful setting in the heart of Northumberland.
31st August (Bank Holiday): Seaburn Historic Vehicle Display
Another local favourite of ours.
31st August: Stamfordham Classic & Sports Car Show
A lovely village green atmosphere.
6th September: North East Restoration Club Open Day
The second chance to see the club's great work.
October: The Last Hurrah
25th October: Ryhope Engines Museum Blackberry Week
The season comes full circle back at Ryhope with a classic car rally on the Sunday.
Things to Remember Before You Go:
* Check the Weather: Many of these are on grass fields. If it’s been raining, grab the wellies!
* Cash is King: While many places take cards, smaller car club stalls and ice cream vans often prefer cash.
* Dogs: Most outdoor shows allow dogs on leads, but always check the specific venue link first (especially at places like Newby Hall or Beamish).
* Confirm Details: Event times and prices can change, so always click the links provided to check the latest info before you set off
Spring walk ideas (Also nice during summer)
