There was a time when motor sport on an estate meant a bunch of joy-riding 14-year-olds doing handbrake turns around upturned shopping trolleys in Moss Side. Since Lord March launched his events however, all that has changed.
And the latest stately home to jump on the bandwagon – even adopting the Festival of Speed name for its hillclimb on 25-26 August – is the Pentillie Castle & Estate in St Mellion, Cornwall.
Still, it's probably going to be a lot of fun in a gorgeous part of the country.
Here's what they are promising:
Award-winning Pentillie Castle & Estate launches South West’s premier motorsport event held in stunning grounds
Prestigious Cornish estate to host spectacular new South West motor event in Summer 2012, with an adrenalin-fuelled hill climb
Cornwall Tourism Gold Award-winning Pentillie Castle & Estate, in St Mellion, Cornwall, is to launch the South West’s first ever Festival of Speed (www.pentilliefestivalofspeed.com) on August 25 and 26th, 2012.
The adrenalin packed weekend will feature a hill climb, endorsed by the Motor Sports Association, which will run from the banks of the River Tamar, past the majestic Pentillie Castle, on Saturday August 25th.
On Sunday 26th, members of the public can apply for the opportunity to drive the hill in their own fine, performance or classic car - becoming a ‘racing driver’ for the day.
Also on offer will be the chance to see some classic and rare cars, take a 4x4 for a drive around the estate with Land Rover Experience West Country and Roger Young Land Rover, have a go at clay pigeon shooting, drive a simulator and sample some fine West Country food and drink.
Ted Coryton, owner of Pentillie Castle said: “This is a really exciting opportunity to create a unique and exhilarating event in the West Country. The Castle grounds are the perfect challenge for motoring fans and will provide a stunning backdrop for some beautiful cars.”
“As a self-confessed petrol head, I am thrilled to be involved with the Pentillie Festival of Speed. It promises to be fuelled by action and very exciting,” said joint-organiser, Stuart James.
James Elliott is a former Editor of Classic & Sports Car
