Next show: July 2027
Classics on the Common returns to Harpenden Common in July 2027. The organisers say full details will be published in the New Year, and we will add the exact date here as soon as it is announced.
The 2026 show took place on Wednesday 22 July 2026.
About Classics on the Common
Organised by Rotary in Harpenden, Classics on the Common is one of the UK’s biggest midweek classic vehicle shows. Nearly 1,000 pre-booked classic cars, motorcycles and scooters line up across Harpenden Common, shown side by side rather than in strict classes, and thousands of visitors come to wander among them on a summer evening.
Entry for visitors is free. The show is a charity fundraiser, and visitors are asked to donate on the day by cash, card or text, or online. In 2026 it supported Harpenden Child Contact Centre, Essex and Herts Air Ambulance, Mercy Ships and Rotary in Harpenden’s own charitable work.
Visitor information (based on 2026)
- Classic vehicles arrive from late morning, with most in place between 3pm and 6pm, which is the best time to visit.
- A free Harpenden Hopper shuttle bus ran from Cravells Road car park between 1pm and 7pm, dropping off at the Fire Station.
- Town centre car parks are pay and display. Premium parking (£10 in 2026) was available on Leyton Road and at the Cricket Club, and Blue Badge spaces were reserved on Southdown Road.
- Dogs are welcome on a lead. There are toilets, a first aid post, food and drink stalls and a lost children point on site.
Arrangements can change from year to year, so check the official visitor information before you go. Exhibitors should book through the Classics on the Common website.
