Here's a new quarterly car meet to add to your calendar: The "Bicester Heritage Sunday Brunch Scramble", which I shall refer to as the "Bicester Scramble" from now on out of laziness.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_021 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
What is it? I reckon the best way to think of it is as the car park at the Goodwood Revival meets a US style Cars and Coffee meet - combining the best of both with none of the drawbacks as far as I could tell.
Where is it? Bicester Heritage, formally RAF Bicester, Oxfordshire, about 5 minutes from the Bicester/Silverstone junction of the M40.
When is it? Once a quarter, although this being only the 2nd event, that may change in the future. The next one is the 4th January.
How much does it cost? Because it's a car meet, not a show, it's free! All you do need to do is register your attendance here before you show up
What's Bicester Heritage then? The blub from the website says:
"The UK's First Heritage Business Park Dedicated to Historic Motoring And Aviation. Based at the former RAF Bicester Station, the UK's leading remaining World War period Bomber Command installation."
"Bicester Heritage is establishing itself as the UK’s national Centre for Historic Motoring and Aviation Excellence. It will regenerate the former RAF Bicester station.
"Our aim is to bring together the UK’s cottage industry of specialists on this important and atmospheric campus in order to promote not just the preservation but, specifically, the use of vintage aeroplanes and motorcars.
"In doing so it brings a modern, sympathetic use to what is considered to be the UK’s most important Bomber Command site and a national heritage asset.
"Comprising a former RAF Technical Site of more than 50 buildings (of which 19 are Grade II listed) totalling over 350,000 square feet, and a substantial operating grass airfield. It is situated on 348 acres next to Bicester, Oxfordshire’s fastest growing town."
Octane recently did a piece on Bicester Heritage - well worth the read, even if you only look at the pictures.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_012 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The moment you drive through the entrance you'll know it was worth getting up early on a Sunday for. I don't think I've ever been to a car meet in such a photogenic location - some of the buildings were practically falling down, others just need a good scrub up and refurb, and the 10 or so buildings Bicester Heritage have restored so far blend the new and old perfectly together.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_001 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
So venue was good, what about the cars? If anything, those were even better! A patina'd Series 2 almost blends into the moss of one of the aircraft hangers, while opposite sit an SLS, Stag MG and a Morgan. Find me that variety anywhere else in the UK!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_039 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
All the cars in attendance were all parked in a slightly anarchic fashion over the base's connecting roads and on pretty much any hard standing available.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_002 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
I get the sense I could have quite easily missed large swathes of the show because there was so much to explore.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_003 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
A meticulously detailed Midget and a cool backdrop? This event makes my "job" as photographer so much easier!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_004 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The Porsche Club GB brought their A game with a number of amazing cars, briefly comprising 924's (including a Carrera GT), 944s, a 964 Speedster, a Carrera RS and a 911S fresh out of a resto by specialists Autofarm.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_006 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Of course where there is Porsche, there is Ferrari. And not just any Ferrari either - an F40!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_007 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
If you were bored of looking at cars (unlikely I know!) you could pay a nominal fee to take a Mini Cooper S, E Type or 'Healey for a blast around the airfield perimeter.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_008 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
One of the most interesting businesses already in place is Historit, a high end car storage company.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_011 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Situated in one of the 4 huge hangers at RAF Bicester it will eventually provide safe and secure storage for up to 500 cars. Take a look at the double decker to get sense of the scale of the hanger, and don't forget there are 3 more of these!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_009 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Designed to house WWII bombers and withstand bomb blasts it should be more than capable of storing some old cars! Already in place in the 150ft x 300ft hanger were a Group C Lancia LC2, Type 57 Bugatti and 60's F1 car, among a host of slightly more "common", but no less awesome vehicles.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_010 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Historit even has a beautiful waiting room while you wait for or your car to be brought 'round, or when you want to discuss the bill (£110 p/m if you were wondering).
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_005 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Airstream, Vauxhall Monaro, Mercedes 230SL, 3 wheeler and a TVR Griffith - yup that's the "variety" box ticked!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_013 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The 230SL looked like the perfect choice for an early morning blast on a sunny Sunday.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_014 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
It wasn't all Concours-worthy unobtainium though, as this wonderfully well used trails Austin showed.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_015 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
If you think 4 wheels are 2 too many then there was even a small selection of classic bikes for you from Norton's to BMW's to Moto Guzzi's.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_016 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
There was also stuff that made me do a double-take, like this Sprite based Innocenti C - I didn't know they existed, and I don't think I've ever seen one in the UK before:
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_017 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The atmosphere was brilliant, a much more relaxed family atmosphere than, say, the Revival, but you never felt worried about leaving you pride and joy to look at the other cars. It was good to see plenty of Father-Son combinations, start 'em young (while Mum isn't looking!).
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_018 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The French were out in force with no less than 4 Alpine GTAs and an A310 alongside a car that needs no introduction - the Renault 5 Turbo 2
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_019 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Most the cars present were fairly original, but as this GTA shows you don't need big mod's to make a big impact, just an ace set of wheels.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_020 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Most of the companies occupying buildings that were finished threw their doors open to the public to talk about the services they offer, from 3D part scanning by Faro arm....
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_022 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
...To trim restorers, almost everything was open to the public.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_023 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
And that included one of the onsite classic car dealers:
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_024 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
I don't know enough about pre-war cars to place a value on the cars in this building, but it seems remarkably brave and trusting to let us scruffy lot wander around as we pleased!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_025 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_026 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
One of the businesses that was only partially open was a firm specialising in Racing Lorries... I mean, erm Bentleys! From engine work to body off jobs they were set up to do the lot.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_027 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The sites military roots shone through with this pair of Jeeps, which looked perfectly at home!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_028 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Into the middle of the base we find the "Courtyard" full of smaller, more temporary sellers offering vintage memorabilia, detailing products and the all import bacon and coffee facilities (The queue was huge, so I can't report back on quality)
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_029 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_031 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_032 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Oh yeah, this is just a proper C-Type, nothing major!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_033 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_034 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Guided tours were on offer for those more interested in the architecture and future plans for the site than the cars: Here we see one group completely ignoring this immaculate C1 Corvette while being told about the plans for the building in the background - a new "Clubhouse" for car clubs to hold their AGM's and keep their records. It could make a cool conference facility too I reckon.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_030 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
I've barely scratched the surface with these photos, there was so much to see!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_035 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Things I've missed out include a number of priceless 911s, a RenaultSport Spyder...
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_036 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
...A BMW Z1 and various hero's driving about in their pre-war Bentleys and Aston Martins as matter-of-fact-ly as if they were driving a Fiesta
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_037 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Still, at least it means there's plenty more to see on January 4th!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_038 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
I'll finish this post with my star of the show: A beautiful white-on-gold modified Alfa - all the better for not being red for once IMO.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_040 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Hope you've enjoyed this post and I'll see you there in January!
Matt
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_021 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
What is it? I reckon the best way to think of it is as the car park at the Goodwood Revival meets a US style Cars and Coffee meet - combining the best of both with none of the drawbacks as far as I could tell.
Where is it? Bicester Heritage, formally RAF Bicester, Oxfordshire, about 5 minutes from the Bicester/Silverstone junction of the M40.
When is it? Once a quarter, although this being only the 2nd event, that may change in the future. The next one is the 4th January.
How much does it cost? Because it's a car meet, not a show, it's free! All you do need to do is register your attendance here before you show up
What's Bicester Heritage then? The blub from the website says:
"The UK's First Heritage Business Park Dedicated to Historic Motoring And Aviation. Based at the former RAF Bicester Station, the UK's leading remaining World War period Bomber Command installation."
"Bicester Heritage is establishing itself as the UK’s national Centre for Historic Motoring and Aviation Excellence. It will regenerate the former RAF Bicester station.
"Our aim is to bring together the UK’s cottage industry of specialists on this important and atmospheric campus in order to promote not just the preservation but, specifically, the use of vintage aeroplanes and motorcars.
"In doing so it brings a modern, sympathetic use to what is considered to be the UK’s most important Bomber Command site and a national heritage asset.
"Comprising a former RAF Technical Site of more than 50 buildings (of which 19 are Grade II listed) totalling over 350,000 square feet, and a substantial operating grass airfield. It is situated on 348 acres next to Bicester, Oxfordshire’s fastest growing town."
Octane recently did a piece on Bicester Heritage - well worth the read, even if you only look at the pictures.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_012 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The moment you drive through the entrance you'll know it was worth getting up early on a Sunday for. I don't think I've ever been to a car meet in such a photogenic location - some of the buildings were practically falling down, others just need a good scrub up and refurb, and the 10 or so buildings Bicester Heritage have restored so far blend the new and old perfectly together.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_001 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
So venue was good, what about the cars? If anything, those were even better! A patina'd Series 2 almost blends into the moss of one of the aircraft hangers, while opposite sit an SLS, Stag MG and a Morgan. Find me that variety anywhere else in the UK!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_039 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
All the cars in attendance were all parked in a slightly anarchic fashion over the base's connecting roads and on pretty much any hard standing available.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_002 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
I get the sense I could have quite easily missed large swathes of the show because there was so much to explore.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_003 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
A meticulously detailed Midget and a cool backdrop? This event makes my "job" as photographer so much easier!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_004 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The Porsche Club GB brought their A game with a number of amazing cars, briefly comprising 924's (including a Carrera GT), 944s, a 964 Speedster, a Carrera RS and a 911S fresh out of a resto by specialists Autofarm.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_006 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Of course where there is Porsche, there is Ferrari. And not just any Ferrari either - an F40!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_007 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
If you were bored of looking at cars (unlikely I know!) you could pay a nominal fee to take a Mini Cooper S, E Type or 'Healey for a blast around the airfield perimeter.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_008 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
One of the most interesting businesses already in place is Historit, a high end car storage company.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_011 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Situated in one of the 4 huge hangers at RAF Bicester it will eventually provide safe and secure storage for up to 500 cars. Take a look at the double decker to get sense of the scale of the hanger, and don't forget there are 3 more of these!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_009 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Designed to house WWII bombers and withstand bomb blasts it should be more than capable of storing some old cars! Already in place in the 150ft x 300ft hanger were a Group C Lancia LC2, Type 57 Bugatti and 60's F1 car, among a host of slightly more "common", but no less awesome vehicles.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_010 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Historit even has a beautiful waiting room while you wait for or your car to be brought 'round, or when you want to discuss the bill (£110 p/m if you were wondering).
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_005 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Airstream, Vauxhall Monaro, Mercedes 230SL, 3 wheeler and a TVR Griffith - yup that's the "variety" box ticked!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_013 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The 230SL looked like the perfect choice for an early morning blast on a sunny Sunday.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_014 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
It wasn't all Concours-worthy unobtainium though, as this wonderfully well used trails Austin showed.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_015 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
If you think 4 wheels are 2 too many then there was even a small selection of classic bikes for you from Norton's to BMW's to Moto Guzzi's.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_016 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
There was also stuff that made me do a double-take, like this Sprite based Innocenti C - I didn't know they existed, and I don't think I've ever seen one in the UK before:
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_017 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The atmosphere was brilliant, a much more relaxed family atmosphere than, say, the Revival, but you never felt worried about leaving you pride and joy to look at the other cars. It was good to see plenty of Father-Son combinations, start 'em young (while Mum isn't looking!).
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_018 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The French were out in force with no less than 4 Alpine GTAs and an A310 alongside a car that needs no introduction - the Renault 5 Turbo 2
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_019 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Most the cars present were fairly original, but as this GTA shows you don't need big mod's to make a big impact, just an ace set of wheels.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_020 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Most of the companies occupying buildings that were finished threw their doors open to the public to talk about the services they offer, from 3D part scanning by Faro arm....
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_022 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
...To trim restorers, almost everything was open to the public.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_023 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
And that included one of the onsite classic car dealers:
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_024 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
I don't know enough about pre-war cars to place a value on the cars in this building, but it seems remarkably brave and trusting to let us scruffy lot wander around as we pleased!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_025 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_026 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
One of the businesses that was only partially open was a firm specialising in Racing Lorries... I mean, erm Bentleys! From engine work to body off jobs they were set up to do the lot.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_027 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
The sites military roots shone through with this pair of Jeeps, which looked perfectly at home!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_028 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Into the middle of the base we find the "Courtyard" full of smaller, more temporary sellers offering vintage memorabilia, detailing products and the all import bacon and coffee facilities (The queue was huge, so I can't report back on quality)
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_029 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_031 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_032 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Oh yeah, this is just a proper C-Type, nothing major!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_033 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_034 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Guided tours were on offer for those more interested in the architecture and future plans for the site than the cars: Here we see one group completely ignoring this immaculate C1 Corvette while being told about the plans for the building in the background - a new "Clubhouse" for car clubs to hold their AGM's and keep their records. It could make a cool conference facility too I reckon.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_030 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
I've barely scratched the surface with these photos, there was so much to see!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_035 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Things I've missed out include a number of priceless 911s, a RenaultSport Spyder...
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_036 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
...A BMW Z1 and various hero's driving about in their pre-war Bentleys and Aston Martins as matter-of-fact-ly as if they were driving a Fiesta
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_037 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Still, at least it means there's plenty more to see on January 4th!
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_038 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
I'll finish this post with my star of the show: A beautiful white-on-gold modified Alfa - all the better for not being red for once IMO.
Bicester_Scramble_20141005_040 by mwggriffiths, on Flickr
Hope you've enjoyed this post and I'll see you there in January!
Matt
. I'm penciling the next one in my diary right now...
