Car enthusiasts across Britain are preparing for the return of the popular ‘Gaydon Gatherings’ at the British Motor Museum next month, with the first event of 2025 scheduled for Tuesday 8 April.
The free-to-attend monthly meet-ups, which attracted over 500 vehicles regularly throughout 2024, will run from 5pm to 8:30pm on the second Tuesday of each month until October.
Taking place on the museum’s outdoor arenas in Warwickshire, the informal gatherings have become a fixture in the calendar for owners of classic, vintage, and modern performance vehicles looking to display their prized motors and meet like-minded enthusiasts.
Rare Museum Vehicles to Be Showcased
A highlight of each gathering is the ‘Collection Spotlight’ at 6:30pm, when one of the museum’s unique vehicles is brought out from its collection and driven around the grounds for visitors to see and hear.
Previous spotlights have included the legendary Vauxhall Lotus Carlton, the trio of Monte Carlo Rally winning Minis, and the high-performance Ariel Atom V8.
The museum typically announces which vehicle will be featured via its social media channels in the days leading up to each event, building anticipation among regular attendees.
Tom Caren, Show Manager at the British Motor Museum, said: “After a winter of Museum Late events, we are so looking forward to hosting our ‘Gaydon Gatherings’ outside again! Each month until October, we will be running this regular meet-up where petrolheads can indulge their passion, hopefully in the sunshine!”
International Food Themes
This year’s gatherings will feature themed refreshments each month, with April’s event offering Jamaican cuisine alongside regular options including burgers, hot and cold drinks, and a bar provided by local Windmill Hill Brewing Company.
Local car enthusiast James Wilson, who attended several gatherings last year, told our reporter: “There’s always such a diverse range of vehicles on display – everything from 1960s classics to modern supercars. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to chat with other owners and pick up maintenance tips. The ‘Collection Spotlight’ is always worth staying for too.”
Free but Pre-booking Essential
While the events remain free to attend, organisers have emphasized that pre-booking is essential. Tickets are released online a few weeks before each event and are announced on the museum’s social media channels.
Visitors displaying vehicles will park in front of the museum, while separate free parking is available for those attending without exhibiting.
The dates for the remaining 2025 Gaydon Gatherings are 13 May, 10 June, 8 July, 12 August, 9 September and 14 October.
Dogs are welcome on leads, although visitors should note that the museum itself will not be open during the evening gatherings.
National Significance
The British Motor Museum houses the collections of the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, featuring over 400 vehicles spanning the classic, vintage, and veteran eras.
In 2014, the museum gained designated status from Arts Council England, confirming its collections as being of national significance.
While primarily known for its impressive permanent collection, the museum also hosts numerous automotive events throughout the year, with the Gaydon Gatherings representing its most regular and accessible offering for enthusiasts.
For those interested in attending the April gathering, free tickets can be booked via the British Motor Museum website.
