A Guide to UK Classic Car Auctions
The UK’s Classic Car Auction Scene. Beyond the Big Names
The UK has one of the most active and diverse classic car auction markets in the world. From high-profile London sales to regional auctions where enthusiasts can still buy well without headline grabbing budgets, there is something for every collector.
The Prestige Auctions
At the very top end sits RM Sotheby’s London. Their annual London sale has become a fixture of the global collector calendar, attracting rare hypercars, pre-war icons and modern limited-production models. In November 2025, RM Sotheby’s London reported a total sale value of over £23 million. Standout results included a Ferrari FXX-K Evo selling for £4.73 million and a 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Spider selling for £2.8 million.
Bonhams operates across the UK with both physical and online classic car auctions. Sales can include everything from veteran cars to modern performance models, often with lower entry points than the headline London events. Bonhams also publishes detailed condition reports and results, making it a useful reference for market values.
These auctions attract international buyers and sellers. But they’re certainly not the only places to buy.
The Heart of the UK Market
For many enthusiasts, the most interesting auctions sit in the middle of the market.
H&H Classics is one of the UK’s longest-established specialist classic car auctioneers. They host several live auctions each year at venues such as the Imperial War Museum Duxford and Buxton Pavilion Gardens. Cars range from entry-level classics to serious collector vehicles. H&H publishes full catalogues online ahead of each sale and offers live, online and telephone bidding.
Iconic Auctioneers, formerly Silverstone Auctions, runs themed sales at major automotive events. These include Race Retro and the Practical Classics Classic Car Show at the NEC. Their auctions often feature competition cars, homologation specials and modern classics. Prices vary widely, which makes these sales popular with both first-time buyers and experienced collectors.
https://www.iconicauctioneers.com
Anglia Car Auctions, based in King’s Lynn, runs several large classic auctions each year. These are among the busiest sales in the country. Hundreds of cars can pass through a single auction. The mix is broad, so expect family classics, restoration projects and occasional rarities. Anglia’s sales are well attended and openly accessible.
https://angliacarauctions.co.uk
Regional Auctions and Hidden Opportunities
Smaller and regional auction houses often provide the most realistic buying opportunities.
Brightwells has been running classic car auctions for decades. Their sales often include estate vehicles, private collections and well-used classics with honest histories. Previews are held in person and online, giving buyers time to inspect before bidding.
Hampson Auctions specialises in performance, supercar and desirable classics, often staged at country estates such as Bolesworth Castle. Their sales bridge the gap between enthusiast auctions and prestige events.
For buyers who prefer to stay online, Car and Classic Auctions offers a fully digital model with escrow protection. Vehicles are listed with detailed photography and descriptions. This platform has become increasingly popular for modern classics and enthusiast cars.
https://www.carandclassic.com/auctions
What’s Selling Well?
Recent UK auction results show strong demand for original condition cars from the 1980s and 1990s. Fast Fords, homologation specials and low-production models continue to exceed estimates. At NEC-based auctions in 2024 and 2025, Ford Escort Cosworths and Capri Brooklands models achieved prices far above guide values, reflecting a shift in collector demographics.
Pre-war and historically significant cars remain strong at the top end. Modern hypercars dominate prestige sales. The middle of the market remains active, with good cars selling quickly when priced realistically.
Visiting an Auction
Most UK auction houses offer public viewing days. These usually take place one or two days before the sale. Visitors can inspect vehicles, review documentation and speak to specialists.
Registration is required to bid. This can be done online in advance. Many houses offer live online bidding, telephone bidding and in-room bidding. Buyer’s premiums apply and vary by auctioneer.
Auction websites publish full catalogues, viewing times and bidding instructions. It is always worth checking these details early.
Why Auctions Matter
Classic car auctions remain one of the most transparent ways to understand real market values. They bring buyers, sellers and specialists together. They also offer something increasingly rare; a chance to see and hear historic vehicles in motion and in one place.
Whether attending to buy, sell or simply learn, UK classic car auctions remain essential to the culture of motoring heritage and a great day out too!
