From 2 – 6 September, the grounds of Blenheim Palace will once again welcome guests from around the world as prestigious car show Salon Privé returns for a five-day event. The automotive extravaganza brings together a collection of the world’s most coveted classic cars, supercars and hypercars from around the globe, with exclusive unveilings and specialist galleries on display. But it’s not just about the cars: Salon Privé also doubles up as a sophisticated English garden party, complete with premium hospitality, food and drink, and shopping opportunities. Book your tickets now and start planning your day with our guide.

Going Out Special: Salon Privé

SEE

A pivotal part of Salon Privé is the daily car exhibits, which are judged by a panel of experts. The event kicks off on Wednesday with the first automotive display at noon featuring a line-up of 13 Concours classes including The Golden Age of Motoring and the new Limited Production Supercars and Hypercar Heaven classes. Thursday follows a similar format, with the Salon Privé Concours Awards Parade at 2pm; Friday is Ladies’ Day by Boodles, a day dedicated to all things fashion and shopping.

The two weekend days are the prime slots for car enthusiasts. Saturday is Supercar & Club Trophy Day, which involves a spectacular show of over 1,500 super and hyper cars, and the festival culminates with Supercar and Lifestyle Clubs Day on Sunday – with the Trophy Parade for winning club cars taking place at 5pm.

EAT

In the middle of the action there’s a dining village complete with an eclectic array of food trucks, plus al fresco seating areas dotted around. Think duck-centric street food, smashed burgers, East Asian-inspired noodles, lobster rolls, Taiwanese-style lunch boxes and much more. On the drinks side, sip Pommery Champagne or grab a cocktail from one of the on-site bars. For more of a fine dining experience, hospitality packages are on offer at restaurants like The Glass House and Spencer Pavilion (find out more about these here).

WEAR

This glamorous event is the perfect excuse to dress up. The official dress code is ‘Formal Garden Party’ – organisers encourage a similar vibe to Royal Ascot or Henley Regatta. In the hospitality areas men should wear a shirt and tie, while women should wear long dresses or smart trousers (and note that shorts and T-shirts are not permitted on any day). For general admission, men are encouraged to don suits or blazers with chinos, while chic daywear is recommended for women such as summer dresses, jumpsuits and tailored trousers – with headpieces and fascinators preferred on Ladies’ Day. Find out more about the dress code here.

Psssst…

Watch out for famous faces on the judging panel: names including motoring icon Richard Hammond will be making appearances and judging the Concours de Vente during the weekend.

Whatever You Do, Don’t

Wear thin high heels, as the event takes place on soft grass lawns – instead opt for wedges, platforms or flat shoes to avoid sinking. Or, if you’re set on your stilettos, heel stoppers can be a lifesaver.

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