Classic Nostalgia Sets the Stage for a Celebration of Motorsport History
- Feb 25
- 3 min read
CLASSIC NOSTALGIA
18–19 July 2026 | Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb
Step back in time and celebrate the golden eras of motorsport at Classic Nostalgia, the flagship summer event at Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb in Worcestershire.
Held at one of the world’s oldest and most iconic motorsport venues, this much-loved celebration promises a spectacular weekend of legendary cars, star guests and unforgettable hill action.
With open paddocks throughout the weekend, visitors can get closer than ever before to the machinery and the personalities that shaped motorsport history.
What’s On in 2026
Motorsport history at a world-famous hill climb venue
NEW for 2026: Historic Racing News Live Stage
Special demonstrations from F1, NASCAR, Can-Am and more
Tribute to 25 years since Richard Burns’ 2001 World Championship
Classic & Sports Car Concours, no pre-entry required
Startline VIP Club hospitality experiences
Pole position parking for classics and car clubs
From historic Formula 1 legends and thunderous NASCAR machines to Formula 5000 racers and record-breaking specials fresh from the Bonneville Salt Flats, Classic Nostalgia delivers an unrivalled celebration of speed and heritage.
New for 2026 – Historic Racing News Live Stage
Enjoy unmissable interviews, guest appearances and signing sessions at the new live stage, powered by Historic Racing News and included with every general admission ticket.
Rally Greats Return
Ralli22 returns with an outstanding field of Group B, Group A and WRC rally cars, plus a special tribute marking 25 years since Richard Burns’ 2001 championship victory.
Don’t miss the WRC Safari-winning Subaru Impreza, demonstrated by its original engineer David Lapworth, with the chance to win a passenger ride via the Midlands Air Ambulance charity raffle.
Spotlight on Star Cars
Surtees TS19 – The F1 Car Too Controversial for the BBC
Marking 50 years since one of Formula 1’s most infamous sponsorship rows, the Durex-backed Surtees TS19 recalls the dramatic 1976 season when the BBC refused to broadcast Grands Prix featuring the car’s branding. Campaigned between 1976 and 1978 by drivers including Vittorio Brambilla, Alan Jones and Patrick Tambay, it remains one of the most talked-about cars in F1 history.
Patrick Tambay’s Lola THL1B F1
A rare survivor from Formula 1’s turbo era will make its Classic Nostalgia debut as the 1985 Haas Lola THL1B takes to the hill. Raced by Grand Prix winner Patrick Tambay for the Beatrice-backed Haas team, the Cosworth turbo-powered machine represents a fascinating transatlantic chapter in Grand Prix history.
Hepworth FF Returns
The legendary four-wheel-drive Hepworth FF returns to Shelsley. Created by David Hepworth and powered by a 5.0-litre Chevrolet V8, the car became an icon when it broke the 30-second barrier at Shelsley Walsh in 1971, winning the British Hillclimb Championship the same year.
More than five decades on, it remains a fan favourite and a spectacular sight in action.
NASCARs – Back by Popular Demand
Brace yourself for the unmistakable roar of NASCAR as Bernie’s V8 monsters return. Expect ex-Kevin Harvick machinery and Daytona pedigree delivering raw power and full-throttle spectacle on the hill.
Classic & Sports Car Concours
Open to all pre-1985 cars, the popular Concours returns with judging led by motoring broadcaster Simon Taylor, joined by John Mayhead of Hagerty and Classic & Sports Car.
Classes include:
Pre-WW2
1949–1959
1960–1985 Saloons
1960–1985 Sports/GT
Plus Best in Show and Judges’ Choice awards.
Visiting Car Clubs
Classic Nostalgia has become a firm favourite for car club gatherings. Each year, more than 20 clubs make it a must-attend highlight of their motoring calendar.
This year, several clubs will be marking major milestones, including the 65th anniversary of Porsche Club GB, the 70th anniversary of the Jaguar Drivers’ Club, and our own special celebration - 125 years of the Midland Automobile Club.
CAR CLUB BENEFITS:
Prime event location parking
Discounted tickets for car club members
Best presented Club award (Sunday)
Excellent opportunity to showcase and publicize your club
Car Club dedicated space is for 10 registered cars or more
To register a car club, please contact: rebecca@eventspr.co.uk
Startline VIP Club
Upgrade your weekend with the Startline VIP Club hospitality experience. Enjoy premium viewing overlooking the startline and paddock, exclusive enclosures and first-class catering.
Admission Tickets
Early Bird Advance: £22 until 30 April 2026
Advance: £27
On the day: £35
Children (5–15): £5
Early Bird Car Club: £17
Advance Car Club: £22
VIP Hospitality: Adults £140 | Under 16s £70
Free entry for MAC Members.
All tickets include paddock access, hill viewing, entertainment and Saturday night Courtyard Party.
