London–Brighton, 2 November — The 2025 edition of the RM Sotheby’s London to Brighton Veteran Car Run concluded with the arrival of 340 vehicles out of 384 starters on Madeira Drive, welcomed by an unusually sunny day on the Sussex coast. The event, reserved for vehicles built before 1905, remains the world’s oldest running motoring event.
A 129-year tradition
The Run commemorates the Emancipation Run of 1896, held to celebrate the abolition of restrictive laws that limited the circulation of motor vehicles and required a man on foot waving a red flag in front of each car. The symbolic tearing of the red flag, which marks the official start of the Run, was performed this year by racing driver and broadcaster Alex Brundle, together with presenter Charlotte Vowden.
Both led the procession driving a Wolseley 3.5hp from 1899, the only surviving and running car from the historic “1000 Mile Trial” of 1900, part of the collection of the British Motor Museum.
From central London to the sea
At 7:00 a.m., with the sunrise, the cars left Hyde Park in order of age, preceded by bicycles and motorcycles of the same era. The procession passed London’s most iconic landmarks — Buckingham Palace, Westminster and Big Ben — before splitting into two alternative routes and rejoining south of Croydon.
Among the most photographed vehicles:
- the Salvesen Steam Car, complete with coal-firing stoker;
- motor-tricycles with drivers in period clothing;
- a 1901 Benz Spider and a 1904 Mercedes-Simplex, showcased by Mercedes-Benz Heritage ahead of the brand’s centenary in 2026.
More than 100 historic manufacturers were represented. De Dion-Bouton was the largest in attendance, with over 50 vehicles entered.
Innovation then, sustainability now
Alongside petrol and steam-powered vehicles, some participated using modern alternative fuels: synthetic e-fuels and eCoal, a biofuel derived from vegetable biomass. A fascinating parallel between the pioneering experimentation of early motoring and today’s energy transition.
Enthusiastic public along the entire route
Tens of thousands of spectators lined the 60-mile route to cheer on the participants. The first vehicle to reach Brighton was a 1900 Renaux tricycle, completing the journey in just under four hours.
Duncan Wiltshire, chairman of the Royal Automobile Club, described this year’s edition as “one of the best ever,” highlighting the work of the 280 volunteers positioned along the route. Alex Brundle, taking part for the first time, was equally enthusiastic about the experience.