MG Car Club
Some venues just feel right for MG, and Brands Hatch is undoubtedly one of them. Steeped in motorsport history and etched into the memories of generations of British racing fans, this legendary Kent circuit will host MG Fest ’26 on Sunday 16 August 2026.
This landmark event will be the MG Car Club’s official national gathering for 2026, bringing together competition, camaraderie, and celebration in one unforgettable day.
Brands hatch
August 16th
As an MG Car Club member, don’t forget you can purchase discounted tickets for just £16. You’ll find the discount code in the members’ area.
Get ready to kick off MG Fest ’26 in style with the Lullingstone Road Run – a scenic pre-event drive organised by the MG Car Club South East Centre. Taking place the day before the main MG Fest at Brands Hatch, this relaxed road run starts from Woodlands Garden Centre near Brands Hatch and winds through the beautiful Kent countryside, culminating at the historic Lullingstone Castle & World Garden.
Along the way there’s plenty to enjoy – from coffee and breakfast at the start to the chance to picnic on the castle lawns, explore the gardens or take part in Pride of Ownership and Concours competitions.
Whether you’re joining for the drive or making a weekend of MG Fest, it’s the perfect way to celebrate great British motoring and picturesque roads.
For the first time in a number of years, Brands Hatch will stage a major event dedicated entirely to MG. Few marques can boast the same depth of grassroots motorsport involvement, and few circuits have witnessed such a rich variety of club racing, saloon car battles, and historic competition.
Bringing MG and Brands Hatch together for a national festival is a mouthwatering prospect for fans of the marque.
Attractions include:
Thrilling On-Track Action with the BRSCC:
At the heart of MG Fest ’26 will be a full programme of racing curated by the British Racing and Sports Car Club (BRSCC) – renowned for delivering some of the most entertaining club racing in the UK.
Headlining the action will be the ever-popular MG Cockshoot Cup, a long-standing cornerstone of MG Car Club motorsport. Expect close, competitive racing packed with character and charm.
A Living Timeline of MG History
MG Fest ’26 is about far more than what happens on the circuit. Spread throughout the venue will be a vast display of MGs from across the decades, creating a rolling timeline of the brand’s evolution.
From pre-war treasures and post-war classics to 1970s icons and modern MG Motor models, the diversity of MG ownership will be on full display.
Meet the People Behind the Cars
One of the real joys of MG Fest is the people. This is your chance to meet owners, restorers, racers, and lifelong enthusiasts and to hear the stories behind the cars.
Interactive Motorsport Experiences
Adding to the action will be the MG Car Club California Cup Autotest and Autosolo competitions, taking place in a dedicated area of the venue.
These precision-based disciplines are fast, fun, and hugely entertaining to watch, proving that motorsport doesn’t have to be flat-out to be thrilling.
Rare Cars, Moving Displays & Special Demonstrations
Throughout the day, spectators can enjoy special motorsport demonstrations and curated displays featuring rare and historically significant MGs.
For many, this will be a rare opportunity to see cars in motion that are usually confined to static displays.
California Cup Autotest
Experience the thrill of the California Cup at MGFest ’26, returning to Brands Hatch on Sunday 16 August for one of the MG Car Club’s most iconic motorsport events. With over 60 years of history, this exciting autotest competition combines driving skill, precision and friendly rivalry in a fun, accessible format for all MG enthusiasts.
From classic MGs to modern models, competitors of every experience level are welcome to tackle technical cone courses in pursuit of legendary trophies and club pride. Whether competing or spectating, enjoy a fantastic day of motorsport, camaraderie and entertainment at one of Britain’s greatest racing venues.
Competitors enter individually via the TimingAppLive system, which also provides live timing and results throughout the event. The entry page can be found here: https://autotest.sapphire-solutions.co.uk/eventdetails.php
During the entry process on the app, the Supplementary Regulations – including eligibility, classes, event format and technical requirements – should be read, as well as the Motorsport UK declaration.
Centre, Register and Branch teams should also use the South East Centre webpage to submit their team entries, which can be accessed by the following link: https://www.mgccse.co.uk/2026/04/27/california-cup-at-mg-fest-26/
For any clarification or additional information, please contact John Morgan competitions@mgccse.co.uk
MG Fest ’26 will also form part of Brands Hatch’s Centenary of Power celebrations, making this event even more special.
MSV Group Motorsport Event Manager David Willey commented:
“We’re thrilled to host MG Fest at Brands Hatch, which is another fabulous addition to the venue’s Centenary of Power celebrations in 2026. MG machines have a long history of racing here, so it’s hugely appropriate that this celebration will take place at the venue.”
MG Car Club Chairman Lorraine Noble-Thompson perfectly captured the spirit of the occasion:
“In celebrating the MG Car Club’s partnership with Brands Hatch, we celebrate not just a venue, but a shared passion that transcends time. Here’s to a remarkable MG Fest ’26, where history, excitement, and the love of motorsport come together in a spectacular celebration at one of the world’s most famous circuits.”
MG Fest isn’t just a show or a race meeting, it’s a gathering of people united by a shared love for a marque that has inspired generations.
With its blend of high-quality racing, interactive activities, historic displays, and unbeatable community spirit, MG Fest ’26 is shaping up to be a must-attend event.
Whether you’re a long-standing MG Car Club member, a new owner, or simply a fan of great British motoring, this will be a day to savour.
As always, members benefit from a generous discount on the online gate price.
General Admission:
Display Bookings (online in advance only):
As an MG Car Club member, don’t forget you can purchase discounted tickets for just £16. You’ll find the discount code in the members’ area.
