Many classic car enthusiasts in the UK are discovering that National Trust properties can provide the perfect place for them to indulge their hobby.
According to the Telegraph, the charity's many historic stately homes and gardens are becoming increasingly popular with classic car clubs because such grand surroundings offer a stunning backdrop for their vehicles.
However, the National Trust – the UK's biggest membership organisation – also has a large number of unique and highly valuable cars in its own collection.
The newspaper described an immaculately preserved blue 1928 Rolls-Royce Phantom I as the "jewel in the crown of the organisation's fleet".
This vehicle was once owned by Jungle Book author Rudyard Kipling and can be seen at Bateman's, the writer's former home in Burwash, East Sussex.
Some of the most popular National Trust events among motoring fans include the millionaire's house parties at Upton House in Warwickshire.
Each summer, the property recreates the atmosphere of a lavish 1930s party by welcoming visitors with a glittering line-up of classic cars on the estate's grand drive.
The vehicles are situated on the drive to reflect the custom of guests being greeted by the butler as servants emerged from the house to collect their luggage.
"Classic and vintage cars are a great attraction for us," property administrator Jane Scarff told the newspaper.
"At Upton, a motoring theme is very much in line with the history of the house, which was once the home of Lord Bearsted, founder of the Shell oil company."
Other National Trust properties that have staged classic car rallies include Castle Drogo near Exeter, Mount Stewart in County Down and Cliveden in Buckinghamshire.
Sunday October 2nd saw the National Trust's Dyrham Park estate near Bath host a Spirit of the 60s day, which featured many classic competition cars from that decade.
Organised in partnership with the Bristol Motor Club, the event showcased vehicles by Morgan, Triumph, Jaguar and Austin-Healey.
Speak to the classic car insurance team at Performance Direct for an expert, professional service and a choice of cover from the UK's leading specialist insurance underwriters.
Posted by Michael Yates
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