Salon Privé Shortlisted for Prestigious Royal Automobile Club Historic Award
Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace has been shortlisted for the Royal Automobile Club Historic Awards 2025 in the Motoring Spectacle category, marking the event’s second shortlisting this year.
The nomination recognises the outstanding success of the 20th anniversary edition, which brought together world-class concours, historic motoring excellence and a vibrant celebration of automotive culture.
Held from 27–31 August 2025, the landmark edition welcomed a record-breaking 28,000 guests to the South Lawn of Blenheim Palace, a 35% increase on the previous year and the largest attendance in the event’s history. The milestone year reaffirmed Salon Privé’s position as the UK’s most prestigious luxury automotive event and one of the most admired gatherings worldwide.
Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provided the perfect backdrop for the celebration. The introduction of the Automotive Gallery, a spectacular 4,460-square-metre glass structure, set a new benchmark for automotive presentation. At the heart of the Salon Privé Concours by Aviva Private Clients was the 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Spezial Roadster, awarded Best of Show from a field of 60 exceptional entrants representing 13 countries. The event also featured the Concours de Vente, the Salon Privé Club Trophy by Lockton, and global debuts from RML Group and Thornley Kelham, reinforcing its growing international prominence.
Reflecting on the achievement, Andrew Bagley, Chairman of Salon Privé, said:
“The buzz throughout the whole week was the best we’ve ever experienced, and the overall footfall broke all records as we welcomed over 28,000 visitors. To be shortlisted for a second award this year is an incredible honour! We’re truly grateful for this recognition, which reflects the passion, creativity and dedication that make Salon Privé so special.”
Beyond the concours, Salon Privé has become synonymous with style, craftsmanship and society, a celebration of motoring culture that continues to evolve while honouring tradition. Its commitment to excellence ensures it remains a cornerstone of the historic motoring calendar for years to come.
For its record-breaking achievements and contribution to preserving and promoting automotive heritage, Salon Privé at Blenheim Palace stands as a deserving finalist in the Royal Automobile Club Historic Awards 2025 Motoring Spectacle category.
For more information about the awards and to view the finalists visit Royal Automobile Historic Awards.
