Blenheim Palace Plays Host to Summer Jaguar Festival

Hosted by the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club and set in the stunning surroundings of the Blenheim Palace courtyard, visitors were presented with the largest gathering of Jaguars from Film and TV ever seen.

The display included a full range of vehicles from James Bond films, cult classics such as the E-Type from the Italian Job and cars from TV dramas including the Mark 1 saloon from the hit series Endeavour. 

Fans of the 1970s show Minder were excited by Arthur Daley’s very own Jaguar XJ6 as used in the TV classic, a car that has rarely been seen since filming ceased.

The Jaguar Mark 2, synonymous with the exploits of TV detective Inspector Morse, celebrates 60 years since it went on sale this year. This occasion was marked by a procession of over one hundred classic Jaguars from all eras around the usually closed roads of the Blenheim Palace parkland.

The courtyard also featured appearances from the team behind the Jaguar F Type currently racing in the British GT championship. Visitors were captivated by the fascinating story behind the Invictus Games Racing team, who consist of two ex-military servicemen who have overcome horrific injuries to turn their lives around and compete at the top levels of motorsport.

The event also offered a trade show, where businesses from the classic Jaguar industry will showcase their products and services alongside cars for sale, arts, crafts and food stalls.

Interviews and commentary with visiting celebrities from the Jaguar world, car owners, racing drivers and other personalities were broadcast on a big screen throughout the day.

Furthermore, for those concerned about the event clashing with the Spanish Grand Prix, the full F1 race was shown live on a big screen too.