Haddenham Classics at car shows

by Lee Jones

Every May, the Chiltern Hills Vehicle Rally rolls into Weedon Park, and transforms the quiet Buckinghamshire countryside into a vibrant celebration of classic motoring. This year’s event, held on 18 May, was special for Haddenham Classics, as we were once again proud to host the official Chiltern Hills Rally Road Run, a 36-mile, pre-show run through the Chiltern Hills, which ends up at Weedon Park in time for the show.

Breakfast baps and banter

The day began bright and early at 7am, at Aylesbury Tuck, Rabans Lane, where kettles were already on the boil and fry-ups were flying off the grill. Drivers arrived with gleaming paintwork and high spirits, ready to take on the route through the Buckinghamshire countryside.

Hosts, Lee Jones and Dave Robinson (our very own dynamic duo), took charge of the morning, welcoming drivers with the warmth and humour that has come to define Haddenham Classics. Over steaming mugs of tea and hearty breakfasts, they briefed participants on the route, the day ahead, and what to expect – though no one could have predicted all of it...

Classic countryside with a twist

Although the Road Run route was thoughtfully planned, the ever-evolving HS2 project decided to add its own twist to proceedings. A few out-of-date turns and missing signs led to a handful of amusing detours, sparking plenty of confusion and laughs, as our whacky racers tried to stay on track. But that’s all part of the fun – classic motoring, with a bit of mystery thrown in!

Despite the occasional navigational challenge, the convoy pushed on past some of Buckinghamshire’s most scenic spots, including Brill Windmill, Waddesdon Manor, and the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. The real joy, though, was simply being on the road with fellow enthusiasts, enjoying the camaraderie and turning heads as the vehicles rumbled through the countryside.

A bird’s eye view 

This year, we were fortunate to have the start of the Road Run captured by Will Hughes of Heimdallr Drone Solutions. As the convoy pulled away from Aylesbury Tuck, Will’s drone soared overhead, catching aerial video and pictures of the cars snaking their way out of town and into the Chilterns.

The footage from the Road Run perfectly captured the spirit of the day. Many thanks to Will for his help.

A proper day out

Once the cars arrived at Weedon Park, the scene was set for a fantastic day. The Haddenham Classics stand had various members’ cars proudly on display – ranging from three elegant Rolls Royce saloons, to British classics, and even a few quirky surprises, including a 2CV.

The show, organised by Adrian Fell, was a lively and welcoming affair with something for everyone. There was live music, a fun dog show, great food and drink, children’s rides, trade stalls, and of course, hundreds of stunning vehicles to admire (see photo gallery below by Chris Andrews). Adrian and his team of volunteers work incredibly hard to make the event run smoothly, and it was clear from the buzz around the field that their efforts were appreciated by all.

What really sets the Chiltern Hills Rally apart is the atmosphere. It’s not just a car show – it’s a community gathering, where enthusiasts old and new can meet, chat and share stories. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just love seeing some vintage wheels with the family, it’s impossible not to feel part of something special.

The Haddenham Classics spirit

At Haddenham Classics, we believe that cars are meant to be driven, enjoyed and talked about –preferably over a pint or a bacon sandwich! Since our founding in 2021, by Lee Jones, we’ve grown into a vibrant community of classic vehicle lovers who meet regularly, support local causes, and encourage everyone to get involved, no matter what they drive (or aspire to drive!).

Our club meets are on the last Saturday of every month at Bradmoor Farm, Haddenham, and we welcome all kinds of vehicles – from classic cars and motorbikes, to buses and the odd eccentric project car. Our events are all about friendship, inclusion, and having fun while preserving automotive history.

Looking ahead

As the last of the engines cooled and the sun dipped behind the clouds at Weedon Park, one thing was clear: the 2025 Road Run and the Chiltern Hills Rally had been a roaring success. We’re already looking ahead to next year, with plans to refine the Road Run route (and maybe update the map this time!) and make the day even bigger and better.

We’d love to see new faces join us next time – whether you're a club member, a rally regular, or just someone with a soft spot for classic motors and good company.

Join our club

If you’re interested in learning more about Haddenham Classics, visiting our events, or even getting involved, have a look around our website. You can also follow us on social media for updates, photos and event news, and you can join our club here.

We’re proud of what we’ve built – a club not just about the cars, but about people, friendship, and a shared passion for keeping history alive and wheels turning.