CLASSICS ON THE COMMON 2025

Will it rain, will it not? But it was “Classics Day” and, of course, we defied those pesky weather apps and produced a beautiful warm, but not too warm, day as thousands came on to Harpenden Common to enjoy Rotary in Harpenden Classics on the Common, one of the biggest one-day classic car shows in the country.

We don’t put the vehicles in any order, so your eyes are drawn to cars from twenties onwards, side by side, from all over the motoring world, each of them demonstrating outstanding dedication and care that only classic car owners lavish on their vehicles. Some are strongly tied to the original styling while others like to embellish the original car with vibrant colours flared arches and wide wheels. Looking very difficult to drive, but since we insist on road worthy vehicles brought under their own steam, they obviously can be, braving the lumps and bumps of the common land.

Please view the photo galleries on the website and videos on YouTube, to see the amazing range of vehicles. Curiosities like the Sherman tank and the arrival of a Sinclair C5 sparked interest until the Sinclair driver was asked to produce his internal combustion engine! He left.

For Rotary in Harpenden, Classics on the Common is our signature event producing thousands of pounds for charity thanks to our exhibitors, commercial sponsors, stall holders and spectators who turn up in such numbers every year. For the community, classic car enthusiasts mix with local families and their children to enjoy a wonderful afternoon out, hopefully also giving a lift to hard-pressed local catering and drinks businesses.

Event manager Liz Jack said of the show, “Rotary in Harpenden is pleased and proud to organise Classics on the Common. I must thank the effort and enthusiasm of the Classics Committee, all our Rotary in Harpenden members and the army of volunteers who made it happen and, once again, the people of Harpenden who have shown their wonderful generosity.

“We would also like to thank Harpenden Council, the police and emergency services for their continuing support.”

Early estimates indicate that in eight short hours we collected in cash donations close to £20,000 which will be added to other donations and the net proceeds will be distributed to our four named charities: Keech Hospice, Rotary Foundation, Hertfordshire Scouts, Empowering Kids in Kenya and other worthy causes.

Gallery 2025

Gallery photographs by Steve Collins Photography

Aerial photographs 2025

Aerial photographs by Richard Washbrooke Photography

Watch the Classics on the Common VIDEO

Treat yourself to a fascinating 13 minutes watching hundreds of yesteryear’s classic vehicles – cars, motorbikes, and scooters – from the 2021 Classics on the Common show.

Take in the pride and dedication of the owners, the enthusiasm and enjoyment of the spectators and appreciate the many roles played by Rotary in Harpenden members and others in making the event happen.