Haddenham Classics' trips out
We like to go out as a group in our classic motors from time to time, to visit things of interest to car enthusiasts. We have lots of trips planned for 2025, so why not join us on one of our upcoming outings? See below.
We recently visited the Motor Museum at Gaydon and had a very interesting tour - write up below.
If you know of a place you'd like to visit as a group, get in touch and we'll see what we can arrange.
Haddenham Classics' trip to the British Motor Museum
by Lee Jones
On 23 February 2025, Haddenham Classics set out on its first outing of the year – to the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, which houses the world's largest collection of historic British cars. A group of us, defying ominous weather forecasts, assembled at Bradmoor Farm, ready to convoy through the scenic English countryside, on a route meticulously charted by Phil Day.
Upon arrival at the museum, we were greeted by the sight of Phil's Lotus Cortina and the Haddenham Classics flag, flapping in the wind. After navigating the windswept car park, we entered the museum's main hall, where our guide, ex-RAF officer, Patrick, greeted us. With military precision and a dash of humour, he led us through a wide array of exhibits, sharing his historical insights and amusing anecdotes. After an engaging 1 hour and 45 minutes, we transitioned to the museum's second building, the Collections Centre.
Here, now under the guidance of tour guide, Roger, we explored the Jaguar Heritage Workshop and a plethora of vehicles showcasing Britain's motoring legacy. Midway, we paused for lunch in the cafe. Refreshed, we delved into the world of British prototype and concept cars – vehicles that, regrettably, never graced production lines, perhaps marking missed opportunities for manufacturers like British Leyland.
As the day concluded, we were free to wander the exhibits at leisure, capturing photographs and soaking in the rich tapestry of automotive history. The journey home was quintessentially British – torrential driving rain tested both man and machine, with my Rolls-Royce's dodgy wiper and gearbox adding to the adventure!
A special mention goes to the museum's display of the Queen Elizabeth Rover 3.5b, distinguished by its unique green wing mirrors – a nod to regal individuality. Additionally, the SS brand's evolution, transitioning to Jaguar Cars Limited in 1945, offered a poignant reflection on the importance of branding in post-war Britain. Lord only knows what they are saying with the current branding! And, we happened across the museum's simulated road surfaces and were shocked to find they were in far better nick than the current state of the roads in Bucks!
Our heartfelt thanks to Phil Day for putting together a well-organised and enjoyable outing. The day was a testament to camaraderie, a shared passion for classic cars, and the unpredictable charm of British winter weather.
tour of classic team lotus workshop
Join us on our visit to the Classic Team Lotus Workshop in Norfolk on 5 April 2025.
£60 per person.
Tour includes:
•Film presentation of a slice of Team Lotus history
•Tour of the Classic Team Lotus race shop and cars on display
•History and technical significance of the many Lotus cars on show
•The Team Lotus archive and stunning new trophy cabinet
•Photo opportunities with an F1 car.
Meet at Bradmoor Farm at 8am for cross country run to Hethel.
Lunch break at pub close to Hethel (own expense).
Tour to begin at 14:30 (approx. 2½ hours).
To book this trip, visit https://tickets.matterpay.com/s/men-with-machines-cic/ZXZlbnQ6NjcxNg==/hc-guided-tour-of-classic-team-lotus-workshop
mini plant tour
Join us on this visit to the high tech Mini Plant in Oxford on Thursday 12 June 2025.
£21.50 per person.
- Meet at the Mini Plant Oxford at 11.45am.
- Look around the museum.
- Factory tour at 12.20pm (1 hour 40 minutes).
Experience the production of a British icon at the state of the art factory.
To book this trip, visit https://tickets.matterpay.com/s/men-with-machines-cic/ZXZlbnQ6NzUzMw==/hc-mini-plant-tour-oxford
morgan factory tour
Join us on our visit to the Morgan Factory in Worcestershire on 16 August 2025.
£38.50 per person.
Immerse yourself in a mix of rare craft skills and the latest modern technology
that go into each Morgan sports car. Your tour guide will take you through each of the historic workshops, showcasing the unique processes which build a Morgan.
Drive from Bradmoor Farm at 8.00am through the Cotswolds.
Factory tour starts 10.40am (2 hours duration).
To book this trip, visit https://tickets.matterpay.com/s/men-with-machines-cic/ZXZlbnQ6NzA5MQ%3D%3D/morgan-factory-tour