London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2023

This weekend Gordon was delighted to attend the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run once more, the spectacle never failing to make an impression on him.

This annual event, steeped in history, has been running almost consistently since its conception in 1896. First billed as ‘The Emancipation Run’ it was created by Harry Lawson, of The Motor Car Club, in the wake of some law changes that made a car run possible. With sabbaticals caused by war and fuel rationing few and far between, the event has remained a familiar fixture in the calendar for well over 100 years. The run itself has seen various reinventions over the years with the route changing as well as the mileage increasing. Regulations such as the implementation of speed limits have also had their influence.

Gordon started his weekend with a lovely meal in the Dilsk Restaurant followed by a stay in Drakes Hotel in Brighton. After a well deserved lay in, the day dawned bright and sunny. They headed over the road to see a spectrum of beautiful pre-1905 cars and bikes. The variety was tremendous including those powered by petrol, steam and electric!

Vehicles of all shapes and sizes made their way across the Brighton finish line after a far journey from London and by 4.30pm it was time for the whistle to be blown and to go in search of a nice glass of something.

Take a look at the gallery to see some of Gordon’s discoveries.