Clacton classic car show

The Clacton Classic Car Show rolls into town on select weekends, and it's genuinely worth pencilling in if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Parkdean Resorts Highfield Grange or Lodge Farm. Rows of immaculate vintage motors line up - everything from chrome-heavy American cruisers to proper British classics like Jaguars and Minis. It's the sort of event where you'll spot blokes in period costume leaning against their pride and joy, chatting enthusiastically to anyone who'll listen.

Honestly, it works best if you've got a thing for cars. Kids will enjoy it for an hour or so, wandering between the vehicles and maybe spotting a few they recognise, but they won't be gripped unless they're already petrol-head material. The real appeal is for the enthusiasts - the sort of people who can spend a whole afternoon discussing spark plugs and original paintwork. You get a proper slice of what Clacton's about: traditional seaside resort culture mixed with local pride.

It's free to walk around and have a look, though exact dates shift from year to year. Best to ring ahead to confirm when it's on during your stay. The show sits right in Clacton-on-Sea itself, so if you're based at one of the holiday parks - Valley Farm or Oaklands aren't far either - it's an easy afternoon outing before heading to the seafront for fish and chips. Pair it with a walk along the pier and you've got a proper Essex day sorted.