Leighton Hall Classic Vehicle Rally
It was love at first sight – that gorgeous purple and white VW Camper Van, with its shiny strong body, sturdy wheels & plush leather interior. We were at Leighton Hall’s annual Classic Car Rally and my son was trying to convince me that I should exchange my rather dilapidated car for the joys of this beautiful beast; I was almost persuaded, but it wasn’t for sale – just there for show, along with some other very fine examples of classic and vintage vehicles from all over the country. There were over 1500 people there to share this lovely day.
Leighton Hall, just outside Carnforth, Lancashire, is also easy to fall in love with. I first visited here many years ago and well remember that first, breathtaking view of Leighton Hall as we drove through the gates & down into the valley. The grey stone house, with its battlements and crenellations, nestles among lush green hills with the vague outline of the Lake District fells away in the distance. It’s a really friendly home and a delight to go round and discover its intriguing history.
Mrs Reynolds, who has the most fascinating stories of family life over the centuries, showed us round the house. It’s been the Gillow family home since the 1700s and their fame in furniture making is reflected in the many lovely pieces around the house. Waring & Gillow is synonymous with quality. What I loved was being able to sit on the chairs and touch the lovely furniture; the chiming of the many old clocks was a musical accompaniment as we walked around. In the light hallway, under the cantilevered staircase was an old rocking horse, perfectly restored and now used by Mrs Reynolds’ young grandson.
Back in the grounds, we wandered around the many cars, motorbikes, commercial vehicles and stalls selling everything you could ever want for your precious classic transport. There were over 400 exhibitors and specialist clubs from all over the North West and further afield – Morris, Mini, Austin etc … evocative names from childhood that reminded me that I hit the ‘Classic’ years some time ago! One of my favourites was this ‘half-timbered’ Morris Minor; Dad had one and my younger brother fell out of the back doors – he did live to tell the tale …
Mark Woodward organises these Classic Car Events all over the country and he told us he loves the atmosphere here. Leighton Hall setting gives it a unique and very special element – perfect for showing off these wonderful vehicles. You can just imagine guests arriving for a weekend house party in one of these graceful Vintage cars.
As we left, my son ran over to a lady who was holding a huge Eagle Owl on her arm. It’s one of the many quirky things about Leighton Hall – they have a large collection of Birds of Prey which fly regularly throughout the summer. He was given a huge gauntlet and held this magnificent bird on his arm, grinning as its huge yellow eyes glared at him with disdain. A great day out – and I am still pondering on the beauty of that lovely purple Camper Van …
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Great to see Leighton Hall get a mention. It’s certainly a little known jewel in the South Lakes with lots of great events (as well as the ‘Teddy Bear Trail’! The VW van was pretty fab too!
So agree Liz -and great to share the day with you 🙂