From concours winners to beloved bangers, if it’s got wheels, it’s welcome at Rustival.
The self-proclaimed “UK’s friendliest car show” returns to the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire, on Saturday 18 April 2026 for its fourth event. This family-friendly celebration of all things motoring invites enthusiasts to bring their vehicles—whether car, commercial, bus, or bike—regardless of age, condition, marque, or styling. Clapped out or immaculate, everything is welcome.
Rustival is hosted by some of YouTube’s most popular motoring personalities: Ian and Carly from HubNut, Matt from Furious Driving, and Steph from idriveaclassic. The show has built a devoted following among classic car enthusiasts who appreciate its inclusive, unpretentious atmosphere—a refreshing change from events where only pristine, professionally restored vehicles feel welcome.
The day will feature hundreds of display vehicles spanning every decade of motoring, talks from motoring YouTubers, and an “Ask the Experts” session where visitors can chat with industry professionals and get free automotive guidance. There’ll be displays from clubs and enthusiast groups, demonstrations and pop-ups from industry professionals, a creator space, interactive activities, and plenty of merchandise from Rustival, HubNut, Furious Driving, and idriveaclassic. Special guests and traders will also be in attendance.
The jewel in the crown of the event is Friendship Corner, returning by overwhelming demand. This dedicated meet-up spot encourages visitors to socialise with other attendees, make new friends, and meet people they’ve previously only chatted with online. In an age when car culture often exists primarily through screens and social media, Friendship Corner offers something increasingly rare: genuine human connection over a shared passion.
“We’re delighted to welcome back Rustival for the fourth time where every vehicle is welcome regardless of age, condition, marque or styling,” said Tom Caren, Show Manager at the British Motor Museum. “The family-friendly event is also accommodating to those with access needs. We look forward to hosting another successful event in April!”
The British Motor Museum itself is home to over 400 cars spanning the classic, vintage, and veteran eras, along with an extensive archive of film, photographs, and documents relating to the British motor industry. Rustival tickets include access to both the museum and the Collections Centre, making it excellent value for a full day out.
Vehicle exhibitor tickets cost £13 per adult and include entry for the car and driver. Exhibitor passenger tickets are £13 per adult and £7 per child. For visitors without a display vehicle, standard museum entry is £18 for adults in advance (£21 on the day), £16 for concessions in advance (£19 on the day), £9 for children aged 5-16 in advance (£10 on the day), and free for under 5s. There’s also an option to Gift Aid or donate your entry fee and receive an Annual Pass in return at no extra cost.
Whether you’re a dedicated petrolhead with a garage full of projects, a casual enthusiast who appreciates interesting machinery, or simply looking for a family day out with a difference, Rustival offers something genuinely welcoming. In a world that can sometimes feel divided by what we drive, there’s something lovely about an event that celebrates the simple joy of vehicles and the people who love them—rust and all.
Rustival 2026
When: Saturday 18 April 2026
Where: British Motor Museum, Banbury Road, Gaydon, Warwickshire CV35 0BJ
Tickets: Vehicle exhibitor £13 (includes car and driver), Exhibitor passengers £13 adult / £7 child, Museum entry from £18 adult / £9 child in advance
More information: 01926 895300 or britishmotormuseum.co.uk/whats-on/rustival
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