The recent Bath Festival of Motoring and Music brought a buzz of weekend energy to Walcot Rugby Ground in Lansdown on 27 and 28 June. Supported by Bath Recreation and Castle Combe Race Circuit, the weekend drew thousands of enthusiastic spectators to the site opposite Lansdown Park and Ride. The festival is expected to have raised many thousands of pounds for local charities.
The main draw was a magnificent display of nearly 600 exhibiting vehicles. Enthusiasts and novices alike marvelled at a vast array of classic cars, modern supercars, motorbikes, and several unique specialty vehicles, including a rare Sinclair C5 and a mocked up ‘Night Rider” from the TV series of the same name. Complementing the horsepower, live music from a variety of local bands, variety acts and a swing band echoed across two stages, keeping the crowds entertained throughout the weekend.
Planned and run by volunteers from the Rotary Club of Bath, the festival has received a huge wave of positive feedback. Many first-time attendees report being blown away by the scale of the event, praising the high-quality musical acts and the impressive vehicle lineup. Above all, visitors highlighted the relaxed, family atmosphere that defined the entire weekend.
Event Chair from the Rotary Club, Rod Davies, said the months of hard work paid off. “We aim to put together an event that is interesting and fun for both the casual visitor and the petrol head enthusiast. We are so pleased to have received such positive feedback. It’s a fun event that brings the community together and also raises much-need money for charities.”
The two main charities being supported this year were the Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance, and Freewheelers blood bikes. Donations can still be made via the event website: www.bathfestivalofmotoring.com
Following the success of this year’s event, the Rotary Club is already looking ahead. The volunteer team aims to build on the momentum and are working on plans to bring the festival back to Lansdown in late June 2027, bigger and better than never.