Classic Wonderland
Heveningham is a glorious setting for old cars – and raises money for worthwhile local causes
About 50 of the world’s rarest and most desirable cars will be displayed on the grounds of Georgian mansion Heveningham Hall for its third annual Concours d’Élégance on June 30-July 1.
Over the weekend, the 5000-acre Suffolk estate will also be the setting for aerobatic displays and a country fair, with all proceeds going to local charities, and 20,000 people are expected to attend.
Exciting entries already confirmed include Nick Mason’s Ferrari 250 GTO, which finished third at Le Mans in 1962 and will be fresh from a recent light restoration. Twice a winner of the Nürburgring 1000Kms, in 1960 and 1961, his Maserati Tipo 61 Birdcage will be present, too.
Other exhibits of particular interest include a 1949 Ferrari 166 Inter Superleggera, the ninth road car Enzo’s fledgling business ever made, with four historic Mille Miglia events under its belt and 85 race victories from 1948-1955. It is the earliest known Ferrari in the UK. Joining it will be one of 300 1927 Bugatti T37s – a fully restored barn find with hillclimb heritage – a 1974 Lancia Stratos and a 1970 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona.
Tickets for the event are just £10, but visitors must also buy tickets to the country fair. These cost £35 for a family, £14 for adults and £6 for children, with concessions available.
How to get there
Heveningham Hall is between the villages of Heveningham and Walpole on the B1117 (access via the A12). The postcode is IP19 0PN for those using sat-nav. The nearest train station is Darsham, about four miles away and two hours from London Liverpool Street.
Also going on
The country fair has raised more than £500,000 for local communities, lending a hand to village and school projects, church repairs and individuals in need. All proceeds go to charity. Aerobatics, a dog show and bungee jumping complement the festivities.
Don’t miss
The Concours will also feature a number of historic aircraft, with a 1918 Sopwith Snipe, a number of de Havillands (including a 1940 Tiger Moth), a 1941 Boeing Stearman and a post-WW2 Tipsy Belfair among the planes competing for honours.