
Salon Privé Celebrates 20 Years of Automotive Excellence at Blenheim Palace
2025-09-03
Author: Mei
A Grand Automotive Celebration
Salon Privé made a spectacular return to Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire from August 27-31, 2025, celebrating its 20th anniversary in style. The event radiated automotive passion amidst a delightful garden-party atmosphere, proving once again why it remains a staple in the UK’s motoring calendar despite challenges posed by unpredictable weather.
A Showcase of Automotive Masterpieces
The show field dazzled with an impressive array of vehicles, highlighted by the prestigious concours that took place over Wednesday and Thursday. The Auriga Collection's stunning 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Spezial Roadster was crowned Best in Show, while Anne Brockinton Lee's exquisite 1956 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Prototype claimed both the People’s Choice and the Ferrari – The Prancing Horse awards, emerging as the runner-up overall.
A New Dimension: Innovative Displays and Experiences
This year marked an expansion in both the breadth and creativity of the Salon Privé experience. Attendees enjoyed two exhilarating driving tours, captivating boat and helicopter demonstrations, and a unique Emerald Celebration showcasing eco-friendly vehicles in honor of the event's two-decade milestone. Spectacular displays included the iconic Ferrari 250 GTO and the legendary McLaren F1.
Introducing The Automotive Gallery
A highlight of the event was the debut of The Automotive Gallery, showcasing 45 remarkable cars from manufacturers, specialist restorers, and elite dealers. Among the standouts was the elusive McLaren W1, Clive Sutton's striking Mustang GT500CS, and the innovative Chevrolet Corvette crafted by the Julian Thomson-led GM UK design team.
The Star-Studded Ladies’ Day
Friday featured the glamorous Salon Privé Ladies’ Day presented by Boodles. Guests indulged in the elegance of the Boodles Best Hat Competition, alongside a stunning display of Bugatti Veyrons commemorating the car's 20-year legacy and a lineup of exceptional supercars courtesy of the Five Zeros Supercar Barn and the Apollo Capital Hypercar Collective.
Supercar Saturday: A Record-Breaking Turnout
Supercar Saturday was a sight to behold, with over 1,000 cars from the UK's leading clubs gracing Blenheim Palace’s North Lawn. The De Tomaso Drivers Club made history with a record gathering, complemented by impressive displays from the Aston Martin Owners Club and Porsche Club Great Britain. The coveted Club Trophy, awarded by Lockton, went to a stunning 1933 Invicta S Type from the Invicta Car Club.
A Grand Finale of Community Spirit on Sunday
The event concluded on Sunday with the North Lawns overflowing with enthusiasts from 18 multi-marque supercar lifestyle clubs. The trophies for Supercar and Lifestyle Clubs were claimed by a striking TVR Sagaris from the Drivers Union and a classic Jaguar XJS from the XJS Club. Guests also enjoyed a vibrant SCC supercar parade featuring 78 remarkable vehicles, including a stunning Volcano Orange Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren HDK. Adding to the excitement, the Concours de Vente showcased vehicles for sale, with esteemed judge Richard Hammond presiding over the proceedings, and the prestigious Prix d'Honneur awarded to Eric Broutin’s De Tomaso Pantera Group 4.