The Ultimate Guide to Car Shows in London 2026: Where Innovation Meets Passion
London is gearing up for another exciting year of car shows in 2026, bringing together luxury marques, classic icons, motorsport heritage, and the latest electric vehicle innovations. Whether you’re a petrolhead, an F1 fan, or simply enjoy seeing the future of automotive design up close, this guide covers the must-attend car events in and around London this year.
Beyond the full vehicles on display, these events are also a great way to spot emerging trends in alloy wheel design, finishes, and detailing — especially on performance, luxury, and EV builds.
Who These Events Are Best For
- Luxury and collector car enthusiasts
- Performance and motorsport fans
- EV and future mobility followers
- Owners interested in wheel finishes and vehicle detailing trends
Salon Privé London
📅 16th–18th April 2026
📍 Royal Hospital Chelsea
Salon Privé London remains one of the capital’s most prestigious automotive events. Set against the historic backdrop of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, it showcases a carefully curated selection of classic cars, modern supercars, and bespoke automotive builds. The event also features the well-known Concours de Vente, offering visitors the opportunity to view and purchase rare and collectible vehicles. Alongside the cars, guests can enjoy fine dining, luxury retail, and premium hospitality.
Many vehicles on display feature high-value finishes such as diamond-cut and polished alloys, which often need specialist refurbishment to keep their sharp appearance. Learn how diamond-cut alloys are maintained and refurbished.
💰 Tickets: Premium pricing, with VIP and hospitality packages available.
🚗 Parking: Extremely limited. Public transport is strongly recommended.
🔗 Official Website
London Concours
📅 9th–11th June 2026
📍 Honourable Artillery Company, City of London
London Concours offers a more intimate and refined alternative to large-scale motor shows. Hosted within the private grounds of the Honourable Artillery Company, the event focuses on design, heritage, and craftsmanship. Each year features carefully selected themes and displays, ranging from historic classics to modern performance icons, all presented in a relaxed garden-party atmosphere.
💰 Tickets: Mid-to-premium pricing.
🚗 Parking: Very limited. Best accessed via public transport. Nearest stations: Moorgate or Old Street.
🔗 Official Website
Everything Electric London
📅 22nd–24th April 2026
📍 ExCeL London
Everything Electric London (formerly Fully Charged Live) has become the UK’s leading event for electric vehicles and sustainable mobility. The show brings together electric cars, bikes, vans, and future transport concepts, alongside home charging, solar energy, and battery storage solutions. Visitors can attend expert talks, explore new technologies, and take part in test drives.
💰 Tickets: Accessible pricing. Family-friendly event.
🚗 Parking: Available at ExCeL, but public transport is recommended. Nearest station: Custom House (Elizabeth Line / DLR).
🔗 Official Website
Tip: For central London venues, arriving by public transport is usually best due to congestion and limited event parking.
Formula 1 Live London
📅 2026 dates to be confirmed
📍 The O2 Arena
Following the success of recent Formula 1 live fan events in London, F1-branded experiences are expected to return in 2026, although final dates and formats have yet to be announced. These events typically feature team appearances, historic and modern F1 cars, interactive fan zones, and live entertainment aimed at celebrating the sport’s past, present, and future.
💰 Tickets: Premium pricing depending on seating and access.
🚗 Parking: Available at The O2 but fills up quickly. Nearest station: North Greenwich (Jubilee Line).
🔗 Official Website
The British Motor Show (Near London, Farnborough)
📅 21st–23rd August 2026
📍 Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre
Although not technically in London, The British Motor Show is easily reachable from the capital and remains one of the UK’s largest automotive events. It combines manufacturer displays, new car launches, live action shows, and family-friendly attractions, making it a popular choice for both enthusiasts and casual visitors.
💰 Tickets: From around £30 per day. Family passes available.
🚗 Parking: Free on-site parking. Train: Farnborough Main Station.
🔗 Official Website
Why You Should Attend These Shows
- See Rare and Iconic Cars: From classic collectibles to modern performance and electric vehicles.
- Meet Industry Experts: Designers, engineers, and specialists share insight into the automotive world.
- Hands-On Experiences: Many events offer test drives, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits.
- Stay Ahead of Trends: Discover new technologies and design directions shaping future cars.
What to Look For as a Wheel & Finish Enthusiast
Car shows aren’t just about full vehicles — they’re also one of the best places to spot upcoming trends in alloy wheel design, finishes, and refurbishment techniques. If you’re attending any of these London events in 2026, keep an eye out for:
- Diamond-cut finishes: Still popular on performance and luxury cars, but often requiring specialist care. Learn how diamond-cut alloys are maintained and refurbished.
- Powder-coated wheels: Matte, satin, and textured finishes continue to dominate modern builds. Read our guide to powder coating alloy wheels in London.
- Split-rim and multi-piece wheels: Frequently seen on high-end and custom cars, but requiring specialist refurbishment. See how split-rim wheels are properly refurbished.
- Forged and lightweight wheels: Increasingly common on performance vehicles. Find out why forged wheels are favoured for performance.
- Surface damage and scuffs: Even show cars suffer kerb damage during transport and display. Learn how alloy wheel scuffs are safely repaired.
This guide is written by the team at Mario’s Wheel Repairs, specialists in alloy wheel refurbishment and finish restoration, with hands-on experience working on performance, luxury, and electric vehicles seen across London’s automotive scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes — for most London car shows, advance tickets are recommended. Premium events and weekend sessions can sell out, and buying early often gives you better pricing or time-slot choice.
Which event is best for luxury and collector cars?
If you want high-end classics, modern supercars, and a more premium “garden party” feel, Salon Privé London is usually the best match.
Which event is best for electric vehicles and future mobility?
For EVs, charging, clean tech, and test drives, Everything Electric is the most relevant event on this list.
Is parking available at these events?
Parking is typically limited for central London venues. Public transport is usually the easiest option, especially for events near congestion and busy routes.
Are these shows suitable for families?
Yes. Some events are more “premium adult day out”, while others are more family-friendly. The British Motor Show is widely regarded as the easiest for families thanks to its bigger venue and broader entertainment mix.
Can I take photos and videos?
Most shows allow personal photography, but some areas (or certain cars) may have restrictions. If you’re filming professionally, check the event’s media guidelines first.
What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Many of these events involve a lot of walking and standing, and some are outdoors. A portable charger is handy if you’re taking lots of photos.
Why do wheels matter at car shows?
Wheels and finishes are one of the first things people notice — especially on performance, luxury, and custom builds. It’s a great place to spot trends like diamond-cut faces, satin powder coat, and multi-piece fitments before they become mainstream.
Final Thoughts
London continues to be a major hub for automotive culture in 2026, offering something for every type of car enthusiast. Whether you’re drawn to heritage classics, performance machines, or the future of electric mobility, these events are well worth adding to your calendar.
This guide will be updated as additional London car events and confirmed dates are announced throughout 2026.
