The British Motor Show 2026: One of the Best Family Days Out This Summer.
Finding a family day out that genuinely has something for everyone isn’t always easy, especially during the summer holidays. Whether you’re travelling with young children, teenagers or adults who simply love cars, The British Motor Show 2026 looks set to be one of the standout events in the South East this August.
We’ll certainly be making the trip to Farnborough International from 21–23 August to see what this year’s show has to offer. While the incredible cars are naturally a huge attraction, what really caught our attention is how much the event has evolved into a complete family experience. From interactive activities and celebrity appearances to live entertainment and the chance to test drive some of the latest vehicles, it promises far more than your average motor show.
If you’re searching for things to do in Hampshire this August or looking for family days out near Surrey, this should definitely be on your shortlist. Better still, children under 17 go free with a paying adult, making it an affordable day out during the school holidays.
More Than Just a Motor Show
This year’s event features a refreshed layout with dedicated zones spread across the showground, giving visitors plenty to discover throughout the day.
One of the areas we’re particularly excited to visit is The Grid, an all-new e-sports and sim racing zone where visitors can put their driving skills to the test on professional simulators and racing games. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or simply fancy challenging friends and family, it looks like great fun.
We’ll also be heading to the expanded Ride & Drive experience. As someone who likes to experience products first-hand before making any judgement, I love that visitors can actually get behind the wheel of many of the latest models rather than simply admiring them from a distance.
With manufacturers including Ford, Tesla and BYD showcasing their newest vehicles, alongside the UK debut of LINKTOUR Automobile’s lightweight electric vehicles, it’s a fantastic opportunity to see where the future of motoring is heading.
A Great Family Day Out During the School Holidays
One of the biggest reasons we’re looking forward to attending is the emphasis on families. The organisers have clearly worked hard to create an event that appeals to every generation.
The returning LEGO and Smyths Toys area is sure to be popular with younger visitors, while Draper Tools’ Discovery Garage offers hands-on automotive activities designed to inspire future engineers and mechanics.
There are also some very special guests appearing throughout the weekend, with Skye from PAW Patrol visiting on Friday, Sonic the Hedgehog taking over The Grid on Saturday and Paddington meeting families on Sunday.
For parents, it’s refreshing to find an event where children aren’t simply tagging along—they’re just as much a part of the experience.
Supercars, Stunt Shows and Live Entertainment
Car enthusiasts certainly won’t be disappointed either.
The impressive Supercar Paddock will showcase some stunning performance vehicles, while Lowered and Loud and Club Hub celebrate everything from modified cars and classics to motorsport and enthusiast clubs.
We’re especially looking forward to watching the live stunt demonstrations. Renowned stunt driver Paul Swift is bringing an all-new Stunt Supershow, while the Live Arena promises plenty of tyre smoke, precision driving and spectacular displays throughout the weekend.
Away from the cars, visitors can enjoy live music on the Festival Fields Stage, browse the exhibitors, grab something from the street food vendors and enjoy appearances from well-known motoring personalities including Grace Webb, Tim Shaw, Helen Stanley and Sam Hard.
Why We’re Looking Forward to Visiting
At Women Talking, we love discovering events that offer genuine value and memorable experiences, and The British Motor Show feels like one of those occasions. Whether you’re passionate about the latest electric vehicles, fascinated by supercars, looking for inspiration for your next family car or simply planning one of the best family days out in Hampshire this summer, there’s something here to enjoy.
We’ll be there to experience it all first-hand, and we’re especially looking forward to seeing the newest automotive technology, exploring the interactive attractions and finding out whether this year’s show lives up to its reputation as one of the UK’s biggest and best family motoring events.
If you’re planning things to do this August Bank Holiday, or simply want a fun day out before the children head back to school, this is one event that’s well worth considering.
Advance tickets are available now, with savings of up to 20% on adult and family tickets. For more information and to book, visit The British Motor Show.
Poppy Watt