In 2005, the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs established National Drive It Day. This annual event provides historic vehicle enthusiasts and the general public with an opportunity to commemorate the One Thousand Mile Trial, which took place in 1900 to demonstrate the feasibility of the groundbreaking invention—the motor vehicle. Additionally, National Drive It Day serves as a platform to enhance awareness and garner support for the historic vehicle movement, emphasizing the importance of preserving transport heritage on UK roads.

Origins and Purpose

The 1,000 Mile Trial of 1900 was one of the earliest long-distance car trials in the UK. It aimed to prove the endurance and reliability of motor cars, which were still a novel invention at the time. The trial saw participants drive their vehicles from London to Edinburgh and back, covering over 1,000 miles in a test of the mechanical capabilities of these early automobiles. To commemorate this historic event, National Drive It Day was established as a way to encourage owners of historic vehicles to take part in a nationwide celebration of motoring history.

The primary goal of National Drive It Day is to raise public awareness of Britain's historic vehicle community and to remind the public of the importance of preserving the country’s motoring heritage. With thousands of classic car enthusiasts participating, the event showcases the wide variety of vehicles that have played a role in shaping automotive history, from pre-war models to more modern classic cars.

How National Drive It Day is Celebrated

1. Classic Vehicle Drives:

   • The core activity of National Drive It Day is for owners of vintage and classic cars, motorcycles, and other historic vehicles to take their vehicles out for a drive. Whether individually or as part of a group, participants hit the road, traveling through villages, towns, and scenic countryside routes across the UK. These drives provide an opportunity for people to see rare and beautiful vehicles up close, many of which are not often seen on the road.

2. Club Events and Gatherings:

   • Classic car clubs play a significant role in National Drive It Day. Many clubs organize special events, including rallies, meet-ups, and scenic drives. Members often gather at a central location to display their vehicles before embarking on a group drive, creating a parade of historic vehicles for the public to enjoy.
   • Some clubs partner with local businesses, museums, or historic sites to arrange special displays or open days for their members and the public.

3. Supporting Charitable Causes:

   • In addition to celebrating the joy of motoring, National Drive It Day has also taken on a charitable aspect in recent years. Many participants use the event to raise funds for various causes, including the Childline Charity, which is the official charity partner of the event. Drivers are encouraged to make donations or participate in fundraising activities to support this important cause.
   • Some clubs and groups organize charity drives or use the day as an opportunity to give back to the community through fundraising initiatives.

4. Vehicle Displays:

   • While the main focus of the day is driving, there are often static displays of classic vehicles in town squares, parks, and other public spaces. These displays allow the public to get a closer look at the wide variety of historic vehicles being preserved by enthusiasts, from vintage sports cars to military vehicles, motorcycles, and buses.
   • Many of these events are open to the general public and free to attend, making it a family-friendly day for both car enthusiasts and casual spectators.

5. Engagement with the Public:

   • National Drive It Day provides an excellent opportunity for classic car owners to engage with the public. Many vehicle owners enjoy answering questions and sharing stories about their vehicles’ histories, restoration projects, and the joys of owning a piece of motoring history.
   • This interaction helps to inspire future generations of classic car enthusiasts and promotes a greater understanding of the cultural significance of preserving historic vehicles.

Importance of National Drive It Day

1. Promoting Historic Vehicle Preservation:

   • One of the main objectives of National Drive It Day is to highlight the importance of preserving historic vehicles. Many classic cars require extensive restoration and maintenance, and events like this raise awareness of the effort that goes into keeping these vehicles on the road.
   • By showcasing the beauty and diversity of classic vehicles, National Drive It Day helps to ensure that the appreciation for historic vehicles continues to grow, fostering a new generation of enthusiasts and restorers.

2. Fostering a Sense of Community:

   • The event brings together motoring enthusiasts from across the UK, providing an opportunity for like-minded individuals to share their passion for classic vehicles. It strengthens the sense of community among classic car owners, restorers, and enthusiasts, offering a chance to exchange knowledge, stories, and advice on maintaining and restoring vehicles.
   • Many participants see National Drive It Day as a social event, where they can reconnect with old friends and meet new people who share their love for historic vehicles.

3. Supporting the Historic Vehicle Industry:

   • National Drive It Day also draws attention to the historic vehicle industry, which includes parts suppliers, restoration experts, and specialized mechanics. The event helps to ensure that there is continued demand for skilled professionals who can work on vintage and classic cars, supporting a vital sector of the UK’s automotive industry.
   • By encouraging more people to get involved in historic vehicle preservation, the event contributes to the long-term sustainability of this niche industry.

4. Environmental Awareness:

   • While the event celebrates the joy of classic motoring, it also encourages participants to be mindful of the environmental impact of their vehicles. Many clubs and groups are working to promote environmentally friendly practices, such as using alternative fuels, ensuring vehicles are well-maintained to reduce emissions, and planning routes that minimize unnecessary mileage.
   • Additionally, National Drive It Day serves as a reminder that historic vehicles, when used sparingly and responsibly, can still play a positive role in today’s environmentally conscious society.

Popular Routes and Destinations

Across the UK, various routes and destinations have become popular for National Drive It Day drives. Participants often choose scenic routes that allow for leisurely drives through the countryside, or they may opt for routes that take them past historic landmarks or to classic car-related destinations. Some examples include:

• The Cotswolds: Known for its picturesque villages and rolling hills, the Cotswolds is a popular destination for classic car drives. The area’s winding country roads and charming towns provide the perfect backdrop for showcasing vintage vehicles.
• Lake District: With its stunning landscapes and tranquil roads, the Lake District is a favorite destination for National Drive It Day participants looking to enjoy a scenic and relaxing drive.
• Goodwood: Home to the famous Goodwood Festival of Speed and Revival, Goodwood in West Sussex is a hub for classic car enthusiasts. Many National Drive It Day events take place in and around the Goodwood area, often culminating in a gathering at the Goodwood Motor Circuit.

Conclusion

National Drive It Day in the United Kingdom is a celebration of the country’s rich motoring heritage and the passion for classic and vintage vehicles. By encouraging enthusiasts to take their vehicles out for a drive and share them with the public, the event promotes the preservation of historic cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles, while also fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts.

The event has grown in significance over the years, becoming a major fixture on the classic car calendar and drawing attention to the cultural importance of Britain’s historic vehicles. Whether through scenic drives, club meet-ups, charity fundraising, or public displays, National Drive It Day continues to play an essential role in keeping the history of motoring alive in the UK.