The global magazine and marketplace for classic car enthusiasts, by enthusiasts.
The global magazine and marketplace for classic car enthusiasts, by enthusiasts.
During the weekend with the longest daylight hours – and quite possibly the sunniest of the year – the Yorkshire Veteran Car Run once again took place. This annual event has become a firm fixture in the world of historic motoring. Under the dedicated guidance of the Ward family and their enthusiastic team, no fewer than 90 veteran cars made their way to Ripon.
The PreWarCar.com team, consisting of Laurens and Jos, rolled their trusted 1899 Amedée Bollée out of the shed on Thursday and headed for the ferry. The distinctive six-seater drew plenty of attention along the way, especially when nestled among the towering trucks on board.
Early the next morning, the journey continued towards the picturesque city of York for the lunch stop. There, we joined the other participants, with the Railway Museum setting the stage for a dazzling display of polished brass gleaming in the sun.
The afternoon route led past a number of charming pubs – perfect spots for atmospheric photo opportunities. The event spans the entire weekend, and on Saturday the Harrogate Concours d’Élégance took place, right in the bustling shopping street of James Street.
For many participants, it evoked memories of the Regent Street Motor Show, which traditionally preceded the London to Brighton Run. Crowds gathered, questions were asked, and curious shoppers paused, wide-eyed, to admire the gleaming brass. Some had even travelled for hours just to see the cars. The atmosphere was delightful – even when a few raindrops fell from the sky. A classic High Tea at the famous Bettys Tea Room brought the afternoon to a perfect close.
The evening drive was magical. In a warm breeze, two pubs had been reserved. For the slower vehicles – including the Amédée Bollée – a pub 12 miles away was selected. Although not everyone had arrived in their veteran cars, a good number still took part and thoroughly enjoyed the summer evening run. It was, after all, Solstice Night – the longest day of the year. And as the sun set at 9:43 p.m., the cars made their cheerful, puttering return to the hotel.
Update:
Sunday put both the cars and their drivers to the test, as we journeyed through perhaps the most beautiful part of Yorkshire: the Yorkshire Dales. This hilly region is famous for its sweeping views, picturesque villages, dry stone walls, and postcard-perfect scenery.
But the ‘mighty’ Amedee Bollee, our proud 1899 veteran, was undeterred. Every hill was climbed — slowly at times, but always with determination. It’s remarkable how confidently this old machine still tackles the terrain, as if it were built for it.
The day ended in style with a dinner at the renowned Ward Collection in Ripon — one of the finest veteran car collections around. The night drive back to the hotel was exciting, a little dark, but thoroughly enjoyable.
All that remains is the journey home to the Netherlands. With over 450 miles behind us, the Amedee Bollee didn’t miss a beat. Who says veteran cars can’t be driven in earnest?
Text and photos by Laurens Klein