Hagerty is bringing its signature blend of petrolhead passion and easygoing social energy back to the UK calendar with the return of Hagerty Hangouts, a series of enthusiast-led gatherings hosted at its Clubhouse at Bicester Motion. Set against the backdrop of one of Britain’s most historic automotive hubs, the events promise a refreshing take on the traditional cars and coffee format, where the emphasis is as much on atmosphere as it is on machinery.
Rather than leaning into exclusivity or rigid curation, Hagerty Hangouts are deliberately open-ended. The idea is simple but effective: bring your car, bring your people, and settle into an evening that feels more like a well-orchestrated get-together than a formal showcase. Classic icons and modern performance cars share the same space without hierarchy, united by a shared enthusiasm that stretches across generations and tastes.
The first event of the 2026 season takes place on Thursday, 21 May, with space for up to 150 cars. The theme for the evening is “wings”, a playful nod to some of the most recognisable silhouettes in motoring history. It’s easy to picture the towering rear aero of an Escort Cosworth or the theatrical lines of a Lamborghini Countach, yet the brief remains intentionally broad. If a car arrives with a wing, it earns an extra nod of appreciation, but the real focus remains on diversity and participation rather than strict interpretation.
From 18:00 through to 22:00, the Clubhouse will come alive with a carefully curated mix of live music, street food and a full bar, creating an environment that feels closer to a summer evening festival than a midweek meet. The culinary angle leans into the theme as well, with a promise of standout chicken wings adding a literal flavour to the concept. It’s this attention to detail, without tipping into gimmickry, that gives the Hangouts their distinct character.
Accessibility is another key part of the appeal. Tickets are priced at £10 per car rather than per person, encouraging attendees to make the most of the experience by filling seats with friends and family. For members of the Hagerty Drivers Club, the value becomes even more compelling, with entry reduced to just £5. In a landscape where automotive events can quickly become costly, the Hangouts position themselves as an easy, low-commitment way to stay connected to car culture.
The May gathering is just the beginning of a broader seasonal programme, with additional events scheduled for July and September. Each will carry its own theme and personality, ensuring that no two evenings feel the same while maintaining the core ethos of inclusivity and shared enthusiasm.
Hagerty’s wider events calendar continues to expand alongside the Hangouts, with highlights including the Hagerty Hill Climb in May and the Festival of the Unexceptional in July. Together, they reflect a broader philosophy that celebrates every corner of automotive culture, from the rare and revered to the overlooked and everyday.
For those who see their cars as more than just transport, Hagerty Hangouts offer something increasingly rare: a reason to drive, to gather and to enjoy the simple pleasure of being around like-minded people, all without the pressure of perfection. It’s a reminder that car culture, at its best, thrives not on exclusivity, but on connection.
