The UK’s Best Motorcycling Attractions to Look Forward to in 2026
Planning your 2026 riding year already?
With winter conditions keeping many motorcycles parked up, now is the perfect time to look ahead and start planning for the 2026 riding season. Across the UK, there’s no shortage of places and events that celebrate motorcycle history, racing, and rider culture — from world-class museums to major shows and legendary biker hangouts.
At Performance Direct, we work with riders who own everything from a single everyday bike to multiple machines — classics, modern commuters, or track projects. That’s why we’re preparing to launch multi-bike insurance, designed to simplify cover for riders with more than one motorcycle.
So while the roads may be icy for now, here’s a look at some of the UK’s standout motorcycling attractions and events worth adding to your 2026 calendar.
Motorcycle Museums Worth the Ride
National Motorcycle Museum
Often described as the centrepiece of British motorcycle heritage, the National Motorcycle Museum is home to more than 1,000 motorcycles representing over 170 manufacturers. Around 850 machines are displayed across five expansive halls, charting the story of motorcycling from its earliest pioneers to championship-winning race bikes. Its location near the NEC makes it an easy addition to a Midlands ride-out.
https://www.nationalmotorcyclemuseum.co.uk/
Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum
Established by twelve-time British Trials Champion Sammy Miller, this renowned collection features around 500 rare and historically significant motorcycles from across the globe. Many are unique factory builds or famous competition machines. Set on the edge of the New Forest, it’s a destination that pairs perfectly with scenic riding once spring arrives.
Norfolk Motorcycle Museum
A favourite among classic bike enthusiasts, the Norfolk Motorcycle Museum focuses largely on machines from the 1920s through to the 1960s. The collection includes rare TT Rudges and bikes from the Brooklands era, making it an ideal stop for riders who enjoy combining heritage with relaxed countryside routes.
https://norfolkmotorcyclemuseum.co.uk/
David Silver Honda Collection
A must-visit for Honda fans, this specialist museum showcases more than 200 classic Honda motorcycles. Spread across two floors, the exhibits cover early production models right through to bikes from the early 1990s, offering a detailed look at Honda’s impact on motorcycling history.
https://www.davidsilverhondacollection.co.uk/
National Speedway Museum
Located within Hertfordshire Zoo (formerly Paradise Wildlife Park), the National Speedway Museum explores the history of speedway racing from the 1920s to today. Supported by the World Speedway Riders Association, the museum hosts its Celebration of Speedway event in March 2026, when bikes are started up and displays come to life. Zoo admission is included, making it a popular family day out.
https://hertfordshirezoo.com/attractions/national-speedway-museum/
Major UK Motorcycle Shows in 2026
Motorcycle Live
Returning to the NEC from 21–29 November 2026, Motorcycle Live remains the UK’s largest motorcycle show. Visitors can expect manufacturer reveals, new model launches, accessories, riding kit, and live demonstrations. For many riders, it’s the traditional finale to the riding year.
https://www.motorcyclelive.co.uk/
Classic Bike Show
Taking place at the South of England Event Centre in October 2026, the Classic Bike Show is a highlight for restorers and classic owners. Strong club stands, autojumble areas, and knowledgeable exhibitors make it an ideal place to talk bikes with people who truly understand them.
https://southofenglandeventcentre.co.uk/events/classic-bike-show251026/
Race Circuits and Live Motorcycle Sport
Donington Park
One of the UK’s most iconic motorcycle circuits, Donington Park hosts several British Superbike Championship rounds throughout 2026, including major meetings in May and October.
Other BSB rounds in 2026 will also take place at Oulton Park, Knockhill, Snetterton, Brands Hatch, Thruxton Circuit, and Cadwell Park — making it easy to plan race weekends across the UK.
https://www.donington-park.co.uk/
A Biker Landmark That Needs No Introduction
Ace Cafe London
Not a museum, but an institution. The Ace Cafe continues to play an active role in UK motorcycle culture, hosting regular bike nights and themed events. It remains a popular stop for riders exploring London and the South East.
Multi-Bike Insurance from Performance Direct - Coming Soon
Many riders visiting these events don’t just own one motorcycle. It might be a daily commuter, a summer classic, and a project or track bike.
Performance Direct’s upcoming multi-bike insurance is designed with those riders in mind, offering cover for multiple motorcycles under a single, clear policy structure. It’s straightforward protection for people who take riding seriously and want less admin and more time on the road.
More details will be available soon, but if you’d like to know more ahead of launch, feel free to get in touch.
