Editor’s note: The organisers of the Porter Press Motoring Literary & Art Festival have announced it has been cancelled.
It’s billed as motoring’s answer to the famous Hay Festival; a motoring-themed literary and art festival held at Whittlebury Park, next door to the Silverstone race circuit. Guests can look forward to a programme of speakers, panel discussions, plus talks by authors, drivers, collectors, restorers and designers.
Taking top billing at the Porter Press Motoring Literary & Art Festival is Lord Hesketh, who will be talking about his legendary Formula One team. This serves as a prelude to a forthcoming book, which publishers and event organisers Porter Press describe as a “full, uncensored history of the team”. Sir Jackie Stewart is also aiming to attend as his Race Against Dementia is the event’s charity partner, while Peter Stevens will provide an insight into his extraordinary career as a car designer.
Complementing the literary aspects of the event will be a selection of motoring art, with artists displaying and selling their work. Anyone booking a ticket to the event can claim a complimentary book from a list of more than a dozen titles, along with another free book for every theatre session booked. There are three theatre sessions, including one dedicated to Land Rover.
Porter Press founder and prolific author, Philip Porter, said: “This is an idea I had in principle about three years ago, but the pandemic put everything on hold. Now we are raring to go and I hope this will build and build as a significant annual event on the motoring calendar. We are aiming to have content to appeal to a wide spread of motoring enthusiasts.”
This new event will take place on 6 November at Whittlebury Park, Towcester. Tickets cost from £15 per person, but packages are available from £230. These include an overnight stay at the hotel, dinner, lunch and afternoon tea. Guests can also book a launch dinner on 5 November for £85 per person.
For more information on the event, and to book tickets, visit the Porter Press website.
Read more
The One That Got Away: Philip Porter’s MG Midget
Book Review: Great Cars, Ford GT40 1075
Peter Stevens: Designing the Jaguar XJR-15 road-going Le Mans racer – in a car park after work
Please note, the event has now been postponed until 2023!