The organisers of last year’s successful Windsor Castle Concours announced a new location for the 2013 edition of the event. The St James’s Concours of Elegance will take place from September 5-7 in the gardens of the 300 year-old Royal Palace Marlborough House, which is adjacent to the Mall and St. James’s Palace, the official residence of the Sovereign.
In just one year, the UK’s Concours of Elegance has become a strong fixture on the international historic car calendar and the St. James’s Concours will again offer owners and visitors a unique experience. Special permission has been granted for the Concours of Elegance to use this rarely accessible space and it will follow a similar format to last year’s flagship event: 60 rare and historic cars from around the world spread throughout a unique setting. In this case, that setting will be the lawns of Marlborough House’s vast walled garden.
In addition to the display of 60 cars, numerous events and features are being planned including an “Ancient and Modern” display by leading manufacturers. In this exhibition, alongside a rare classic from each marque’s heritage will be a new or prototype car.
London’s historic St. James’s has been home predominantly to Royalty and the aristocracy since the mid-17th century. Today, amongst the Royal Palaces and fine houses, St. James’s is the address of several major corporations, gentlemen’s clubs, tailors, wine merchants and fine art houses. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren, Marlborough House also has, apart from nearby Buckingham Palace, one of the largest gardens in Central London.
His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent has also agreed to become Patron of the annual Concours of Elegance. A known motoring enthusiast, HRH is President of The Royal Automobile Club, Patron of Benjafields Racing Club and Honorary Member of the Bentley Drivers’ Club and the British Racing Drivers’ Club. Prince Michael of Kent will officially open the Concours as well as attending the event and meeting the Owners and their guests.
The event is open to the public on Friday, September 6 and Saturday, September 7, 2013. Admission tickets are only available in advance from www.concoursofelegance.co.uk or the Ticket Factory on +44 (0)844 338 8000. Prices start at £25.00. A Celebration Dinner for VIPs and show car owners will take place in the State Apartments of St. James’s Palace on Friday, September 6.
In addition to bringing together historic cars and enthusiasts, the event aims to raise money for a number of charities working in the field of cancer care, support and research. The principal partner is Marie Curie Cancer Care, the charity which gives people with terminal illnesses the choice to die at home, surrounded by the people and things they cherish.
RM Auctions is also confirmed as the official auction partner. RM moved its traditional London Auction dates to align itself with the Concours. The auction will add a new element to the activities planned during the event.
For further information, visit www.concoursofelegance.co.uk.
[Source: Concours of Elegance; photo: Tim Scott / Fluid Images]
