Salon Privé Opens Entries for Its Landmark 2026 Concours at Blenheim Palace

Salon Privé, the UK’s most prestigious luxury automotive event, has officially opened entries for the 2026 edition of its revered Concours by Aviva Private Clients. Returning to the South Lawn of Blenheim Palace on Wednesday 2nd and Thursday 3rd September 2026, the world-class showcase marks the 21st running of one of the most significant multi-marque Concours events on the global automotive calendar.

Recognised as the only professionally judged multi-marque Concours in the UK, Salon Privé is once again expected to attract an extraordinary line-up of privately owned classics and contemporary supercars from around the world. For 2026, organisers are promising their most spectacular show field to date, with cars competing across an expanded range of classes — from Pre-war and Post-war Open and Closed categories, to Sports Racers, Ferraris and Evolution of the Supercar.

In a special highlight for 2026, Salon Privé will honour the 80th anniversary of Bristol Cars with a dedicated Concours class celebrating the uniquely British marque. Bristol Motors, born from the Bristol Aeroplane Company in the aftermath of the Second World War, launched its first automobile — the Bristol 400 — in 1946. Known for its exquisitely engineered, hand-built grand tourers, Bristol quickly earned a loyal following among connoisseurs, celebrities and royalty, including Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III.

From the elegant early 400, 401 and 403 to the later V8 models and the dramatic V10-powered Fighter, Bristol Cars became synonymous with restrained British luxury and aeronautical precision.

“We are inviting Concours examples from the Bristol back catalogue stretching all the way to 1946 and are honoured to announce a dedicated class celebrating the 80th anniversary of Bristol Cars,” said Andrew Bagley, Chairman and co-founder of Salon Privé. “As one of Britain’s most charismatic marques, we look forward to welcoming outstanding examples to Blenheim Palace, and to sharing the celebration with owners and enthusiasts alike.”

Alongside pristine, privately owned cars competing in the anniversary class, Bristol Cars will also present its newest models within the Salon Privé Automotive Gallery — offering guests a rare opportunity to explore both the heritage and the future of the marque.

“As we prepare for Bristol’s 80th anniversary, it’s a privilege to see our marque recognised by Salon Privé,” added Jason Wharton, Executive Chairman of Bristol Cars. “Our Vision 8.0 roadmap is all about reimagining Bristol for a new generation while honouring its hand-built, aeronautical heritage. We are excited to celebrate the past and preview the future with the discerning audience that Salon Privé attracts.”

The Salon Privé Concours by Aviva Private Clients traditionally opens the five-day automotive garden party at Blenheim Palace, drawing global entries and thousands of enthusiasts. The 2025 edition set a new benchmark, with sixty cars — more than half from overseas and spanning 13 countries — competing across 12 classes.

A 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Spezial Roadster by Sindelfingen, shown by The Auriga Collection, claimed the coveted Best of Show award. Its dramatic Long Tail design and sweeping coachwork made it an undeniable standout in the Pre-war Open class. Runner Up and The People’s Choice Award went to a remarkable 1956 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Coupé “Super Fast” Prototype by Pinin Farina, presented by renowned collector Anne Brockinton Lee.

“After an unforgettable 20th anniversary Concours, it's wonderful to round out the year by opening entries for our 21st edition,” added Bagley. “We welcomed so many exquisite and diverse show cars from across the globe in 2025, and we’re already well on the way to making 2026 our biggest and most exciting event yet.”

Entries for the 2026 Salon Privé Concours by Aviva Private Clients are now open.

For more information or to submit an entry, visit www.salonpriveconcours.com.