Heveningham Concours: automotive icons and community generosity

Heveningham Concours: automotive icons and community generosity

Thousands of guests, collectors and enthusiasts gathered at Heveningham Hall in Suffolk for what has become the UK’s most prestigious and unique concours event: an elegant fusion of motoring and aviation excellence with charitable purpose.


 
The event was once again held in conjunction with the long-established Heveningham Hall Country Fair, creating a vibrant setting where classic Ferraris and Spitfires shared the stage with local produce and rustic traditions.


 
This year’s meticulously curated line-up of cars, bikes and aeroplanes was judged by a distinguished panel, including renowned automotive designer Peter Stevens, best known for his work on the McLaren F1, accomplished racing driver Marino Franchitti, and Ian Callum, responsible for countless iconic Jaguar and Aston Martin models together with David Gandy, Vic Norman and Sarah Hanna amongst others.


 
Together, they brought technical knowledge and artistic insight to the judging process, evaluating each vehicle for historical importance, originality, presentation and performance.
 
Category winners:
Pioneers and Pre-War: 1934 Bugatti Type 57
Mid-Century (1946–1965): 1961 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato
Post-Modern (1966–1999): 1995 Porsche 911 Carrera RS
Performance Supercar & Hypercar: 1984/2022 Porsche 930 TAG Turbo by Lanzante
Race & Rally: 1957 Aston Martin DBR2
 Motorcycles: 1994 Ducati 916
 
Special accolades:
Special Award: 2025 Picasso OMT 450C
Chairman’s Choice: 1951 Ferrari 212 Export Cabriolet by Vignale
Best in Show: 1920 Sunbeam 350HP
 
The land speed record-breaking Sunbeam was not only the Best in Show, but also an integral part of the spectacle, with the 18-litre aero engine regularly fired up to astonish onlookers; spitting flames into the night.


 
The Hanna Aviation Trophy was awarded to the 1939 Gloster Gladiator, a biplane symbolising the final chapter of the RAF’s pre-war aircraft development, while runner-up honours went to the beautifully preserved 1941 De Havilland DH.89A Dragon Rapide, a classic twin-engine airliner.


 
In the ever-popular Horsepower Hill demonstration run – a blast up Heveningham Hall’s spectacular drive – James Nichols once again took the honours, hitting a top speed of 117mph.


 
There were also some important global debuts at Heveningham, with Callum Design in conjunction with David Gandy’s bold Wood & Pickett Mini making its first public appearance.
 

Meanwhile, in the motorcycle concours, a standout newcomer to make its debut was the 2025 Picasso OMT 450C, designed entirely in carbon-fibre for flat-track racing, with a roadgoing model also waiting in the wings.


 
“What sets Heveningham Concours apart is not only the extraordinary cars and planes, but the fact that it all gives back to our community,” said Lois Hunt, the Chairman and founder of the Heveningham Concours. “We're thrilled with the generosity of our entrants and guests, and very proud to be able to support a variety of deserving projects”.
 

Over the years the event has become a beacon for how luxury and legacy can work together as it celebrates mechanical design and brilliance.  Every ticket purchased and every vehicle entered directly benefits the community raising much needed funds for projects across Suffolk.  The Concours also funds an Intelligent Mobility Scholarship at the Royal College of Art underlining the emphasis on contemporary design.

 

Thanks to its unique combination of visual spectacle, historical richness and philanthropic spirit, the Heveningham Concours has evolved into an important  event on the international motoring calendar. Plans are already underway for next year’s edition, with organisers promising new surprises, rare unveilings and continued dedication to the causes that inspire.


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