Classic Cars drive back to the seafront this summer

May 19, 2026

The much-loved motoring event Classic Cars on the Beach is set to return to Southend’s City Beach, bringing heritage, horsepower and nostalgia back to the seafront for 2026.

Hosted by Southend-on-Sea City Council in partnership with the Southend and District Classic Car Club, the event will showcase a stunning line-up of classic vehicles over 25 years old, parked along City Beach and open for residents and visitors to enjoy.

From beautifully preserved vintage cars to iconic models from the late 20th century, Classic Cars on the Beach offers something for enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors can stroll along the seafront, admire the vehicles up close, chat with owners, and enjoy the wider attractions, food and hospitality Southend has to offer.

Cllr Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, Music, and Tourism, said: “Classic Cars on the Beach is a wonderful celebration of culture, creativity and our shared motoring heritage, set against the unique backdrop of Southend’s seafront.

“Events like this play an important role in attracting visitors, supporting our tourism offer and showcasing Southend as a vibrant and welcoming city.”

Cllr Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council, said: “We’re delighted to be announcing the return of the Classic Cars. This has been a much-missed feature of our seafront calendar, and this administration has been consistent in its support for its return. We were pleased to see them back for City Day and now we’re looking forward to them bringing an extra gleam to the seafront over the summer.”

The event will take place on the last Sunday of each month from May to October, running from 9am to 4pm, creating a regular highlight in the city’s summer events calendar.