Exploring the UK Classic Car Auction Scene Beyond the Big Names
UK Classic Car Auctions Explained
The UK classic car auction market is one of the most established and varied in the world. While high-profile London auctions often dominate media attention, they represent only a fraction of what is available to collectors and enthusiasts. Across the country, a diverse network of auction houses caters to every level of buyer, from first-time classic owners to seasoned collectors with global interests.
From prestigious international sales to regional auctions offering excellent value, the UK scene remains active, accessible and constantly evolving.
The Prestige End of the Auction Market
At the top of the UK auction hierarchy sits RM Sotheby’s London. Its annual London sale has become a permanent fixture on the international collector calendar, attracting an array of rare hypercars, pre-war icons and limited-production modern classics.
In November 2025, RM Sotheby’s London recorded total sales in excess of £23 million. Notable results included a Ferrari FXX-K Evo achieving £4.73 million and a 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Spider selling for £2.8 million. These headline figures reflect the auction’s ability to draw exceptional consignments and high-net-worth buyers from around the world.
Bonhams operates a broad programme of classic car auctions throughout the UK, combining traditional saleroom events with online bidding. Their sales regularly include vehicles ranging from early veteran cars through to modern performance models, often at more approachable price points than the flagship London auctions. Bonhams is also widely used as a reference for market values thanks to its detailed condition reports and publicly available results.
While these auctions attract international attention, they form just one tier of a much wider marketplace.
The Core of the UK Classic Auction Scene
For many enthusiasts, the most appealing auctions sit within the heart of the UK market, where variety and value are key.
H&H Classics is one of the longest-established specialist classic car auctioneers in the country. They host several live auctions each year at respected venues such as the Imperial War Museum Duxford and Buxton Pavilion Gardens. Their catalogues cover everything from affordable classics to serious collector vehicles. Full listings are published online ahead of each sale, with live, online and telephone bidding options available.
Iconic Auctioneers, formerly Silverstone Auctions, specialises in themed sales staged alongside major automotive events. These include Race Retro and the Practical Classics Classic Car Show at the NEC. Their auctions often feature competition cars, homologation models and desirable modern classics. With a wide range of estimates, these sales attract both newcomers and experienced collectors.
https://www.iconicauctioneers.com
Based in King’s Lynn, Anglia Car Auctions runs some of the busiest classic car auctions in the UK. Multiple large sales take place each year, with hundreds of vehicles often passing through a single event. The selection is broad, ranging from family classics and restoration projects to the occasional rare find. Anglia’s auctions are well attended and open to the public, contributing to their strong reputation.
https://angliacarauctions.co.uk
Regional Auctions and Less Obvious Buying Opportunities
Smaller and regional auction houses frequently offer some of the most realistic purchasing opportunities.
Brightwells has decades of experience running classic vehicle auctions. Their sales commonly include estate cars, private collections and well-used classics with straightforward ownership histories. Buyers are able to view vehicles both in person and online prior to bidding.
Hampson Auctions focuses on performance cars, supercars and desirable classics, often hosting sales at country estates such as Bolesworth Castle. Their events sit between enthusiast-led auctions and prestige sales, attracting a broad spectrum of buyers.
For those who prefer to bid remotely, Car and Classic Auctions offers a fully online auction platform with escrow protection. Listings include comprehensive photography and detailed descriptions, and the platform has grown significantly in popularity, particularly among buyers of modern classics and enthusiast vehicles.
https://www.carandclassic.com/auctions
Current Market Trends
Recent UK auction data shows strong demand for well-preserved vehicles from the 1980s and 1990s. Fast Fords, homologation specials and low-production models continue to outperform estimates. At NEC-based auctions during 2024 and 2025, Ford Escort Cosworths and Capri Brooklands models consistently exceeded guide prices, reflecting a shift in buyer demographics and growing nostalgia-driven demand.
At the upper end of the market, pre-war and historically significant vehicles continue to perform well, while modern hypercars dominate prestige sales. The mid-market remains particularly active, with realistically priced cars selling quickly when presented well.
Attending a Classic Car Auction
Most UK auction houses offer public viewing days, usually held one or two days before the sale. These allow prospective bidders to inspect vehicles, review documentation and speak with auction specialists.
To bid, registration is required and can typically be completed online in advance. Buyers should note that buyer’s premiums apply and vary by auctioneer. Auction websites publish full catalogues, viewing details and bidding guidance, which are worth reviewing ahead of time.
Why Auctions Remain Important
Classic car auctions continue to provide one of the clearest insights into real-world market values. They bring together buyers, sellers and specialists in a transparent environment and offer an opportunity to see a wide range of historic vehicles in one place.
Whether attending to buy, sell or simply learn more about the market, UK classic car auctions remain central to the culture of motoring heritage — and continue to be an enjoyable and informative day out for enthusiasts.
