Hornsey was the birthplace of Lotus – and on Saturday 4 July 2026, the Friends of Priory Park mark the park’s centenary year (1926–2026) with a Classic Car Pageant that carries a special significance for the marque.

The day begins as a celebration of classic motoring of every kind: vehicles assemble in Priory Park, Hornsey, by 10.00am, joined by the Whitewebbs Museum of Transport and Horton’s Steam Fair for a full and varied programme. Close to fifty cars are already confirmed, with a few exhibitor spaces remaining.

For Lotus owners, there’s a unique addition. The original Lotus factory and showroom still stand in Hornsey — saved from demolition some years ago and now to be incorporated into a development to be known as the Lotus Buildings. At 5.00pm, Lotus cars will leave the park and drive in convoy through Hornsey to the old factory for a photo shoot at the marque’s birthplace, followed by a talk on Lotus in the 1950s given by Chris Arnold in the original showroom. Space for the talk is limited, so early interest is advised.

Lotus owners: assemble at Priory Park via the Abbeville Road entrance, N8. To take part in the drive and talk, contact Chris Arnold at vichris@me.com or on 07778 056686. Registration forms and updates are posted in the North London Classic Car Lovers Facebook group.

Exhibiting a vehicle in the main pageant? Email pageant@fopp-n8.org.uk for details. Sponsors are also being sought — please contact Chris Arnold.

A rare chance to bring a Lotus home to where it all began. Club Lotus members in and around London are warmly encouraged to take part.