If you’re bringing a classic car to the Cowley Classic Car Show this Bank Holiday, we’re a short drive from Notcutts Garden Centre in Nuneham Courtenay, where the show is held. We’re close enough that you’re not adding much to the journey either side of the show, and far enough out that you’ll still get a proper night’s rest before or after all the engine noise.
About the show
The Cowley Classic Car Show takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, 31 August 2026, at Notcutts Garden Centre, Nuneham Courtenay. It’s organised by the Rotary Club of Oxford Isis, and this year marks its seventeenth outing, making it one of the larger classic car gatherings in the area. Alongside a great collection of vintage, classic and historic vehicles, expect stalls, a fun dog show, live music and the garden centre setting itself to browse between wandering the rows of cars. Things are set to get underway from around mid-morning, though it’s worth checking the show’s own website or social pages closer to the date for the final running times, since these can shift year to year.
Your base for the day
We’re a Grade II listed inn on the high street in Dorchester-on-Thames, with free onsite parking and free on-street parking too, so there’s no need to worry about finding somewhere to leave your car for the day or overnight. Our rooms are cosy and characterful, each one slightly different, and our chefs cook with locally sourced ingredients if you fancy a proper meal to bookend the show rather than rushing back on the road.
If you’re exhibiting and travelling any distance, it’s worth considering a night with us before the show rather than an early start on the day itself. That way your car’s already close by, you’ve had a good breakfast, and you’re not battling Bank Holiday traffic first thing.
We’re dog-friendly throughout, which works out rather well if you’re bringing a four-legged companion along to the show’s dog contest as well as your car.
Make a day of it in Dorchester
Dorchester-on-Thames is worth lingering in beyond the show itself. We’re right on the Thames Path, so a short stroll either side of your visit is an easy way to stretch your legs after standing around admiring engines all day. Dorchester Abbey is just up the high street from us, and if you fancy venturing further, Oxford’s historic city centre is about nine miles away, easily reached for an evening meal or a wander if you’re staying more than one night.
Special rates for the show
We’re offering accommodation rates for guests attending the Cowley Classic Car Show. To check availability and ask about the event rate, call us on 01865 340074, or book online below.
Finding us
We’re at 22-26 High Street, Dorchester-on-Thames, just off the A4074, with easy access from the M40 and M4. You’ll find full directions and parking details on our location page, or find out more about staying with us and your dog on our dog-friendly page.
For more on the show itself, including exhibitor booking, visit the Cowley Classic Car Show’s own website.