A fine day out at Hampton Court Concours 2026

Pictured above: The Best in Show Mercedes-Benz 710 SSK Rennwagen

A good number of Coachmakers including three Past Masters enjoyed this year’s Hampton Court Concours where some 80 of the world’s rarest cars were on display.

IPM Richard Charlesworth MVO introduces a stunning Lotus Europa

Immediate Past Master Richard Charlesworth MVO was one of the lead presenters on the Concours stage, which saw the overall Best in Show award going to a 1928 Mercedes-Benz 710 SSK Rennwagen, chassis 36246.

Nigel and Assistant Lyn Litchfield arriving in Model-T style

The SSK (for Super Sport Kurz) was developed from Ferdinand Porsche’s Model S chassis, though on a shorter wheelbase for competition use and powered by a 7,065cc straight-six supercharged engine producing around 250bhp.

For the Coachmakers, the highlight of the day which was superbly organised by Assistant Nick Lyford, was undoubtedly the traditional leisurely picnic in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace.

A classic example of the fellowship that our Livery embodies.

A fine spread

Coachmakers’ cars lined up for the event