FYI: Duke of London in West London is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts, offering an incredible array of classic and collectible cars, and an unforgettable automotive experience.
Driving within the bustling streets of the UK capital can be intimidating, particularly in the inner city. However, nestled in West London, Duke of London serves as a sanctuary for car aficionados. On a recent trip to the UK for the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, I had the chance to explore this iconic automotive haven.
Discovering Duke of London
Situated in Brentford, near the historic Brentford Docks, Duke of London has evolved into a vibrant hub for rare and collectible automobiles since its inception in 2014 by Merlin McCormack. The establishment has recently relocated to a new, larger site. Despite ongoing construction work in parts of the venue, the main showroom and a stunning rooftop space are already available to visitors.
A Special Exhibit
My visit coincided with a noteworthy event showcasing Oilstain Lab’s "Half11," a distinctive creation that had participated in the Speed Festival just a week earlier. The project, which Speedhunters first documented in 2021 while it was still under construction, is now complete. I had the opportunity to capture comprehensive footage for an upcoming feature, so stay tuned for the release!
The Journey Begins
I arrived at Duke of London around 7 PM. The first sight to capture my attention was a Lamborghini Countach, glistening in the evening sunlight. Enthralled by its presence, I decided to explore the indoor exhibits spread a few floors below before taking a closer look.
Exploring the Showroom
On the sixth floor, a diverse array of cars for sale and storage awaited. These vehicles, while not the crown jewels of Duke of London, were remarkably impressive. Classic cars, each with its own story, captivated our group.
Moving up to the seventh floor, I found a mix of special cars, along with a cozy café. A standout among the displays was a "Bullitt" Mustang, a Morgan, two veteran Range Rovers, and classic BMWs. The assortment also included an unexpected collection of bicycles and even Barbie-themed tricycles, a delightful surprise for visitors of all ages.
Highlight of the Visit
A true highlight was encountering the Meyers Manx, a car I found particularly cool and charismatic. Higher up, on level 7.5, climate-controlled plastic bubbles encased each car, designed to protect them from weather elements, a feature Duke of London plans to adopt for all stored vehicles in the future.
The Rooftop Experience
The rooftop area was bustling with attendees, many having driven their own prized vehicles. This elevated space was dominated by Porsches, ranging from vintage 911s to modern models. Among them, my personal favorite was a beautifully modified 964 Carrera 2.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Tico’s staff served mouth-watering hot dogs, a perfect treat for the evening. Walking among the variety of cars, I was particularly delighted by pristine classics like a Volvo P1800S, an E38 BMW, and an Aston Martin V8 Vantage, underscoring the timeless saying, "they don’t make cars like they used to."
Connecting Through Car Culture
One of the most rewarding aspects of car culture is meeting people who share a passion for automobiles. This event brought together a diverse array of enthusiasts, fostering connections and exchanging stories in a perfect setting.
A Perfect Farewell
Spending my final evening in the UK amidst these marvelous machines was an ideal send-off before heading back to South Africa. For London locals and visitors alike, Duke of London is undoubtedly a destination worth visiting.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
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