Vintage car enthusiasts gear up for Glenarm Castle ‘Drive it Day’ in support of Childline

Classic car owners from across Northern Ireland are preparing to descend on Glenarm Castle this weekend for a major vintage motoring event that blends heritage, community and charity — with thousands of pounds expected to be raised for Childline.

Organised by the Ulster Vauxhall Opel Classic Community (UVOCC), ‘Drive it Day’ will take place on Sunday 26 April, bringing together historic vehicles and families for a scenic run along the Antrim Coast Road, culminating in a public gathering in the castle grounds around midday.

A celebration of motoring heritage with a charitable focus

Drive it Day was established by the Federation of British Historical Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) to commemorate the historic One Thousand Mile Trial of 1900 — a landmark event designed to demonstrate the reliability and future potential of the motor car.

Today, the annual event not only celebrates the enduring appeal of historic vehicles but also promotes the preservation of transport heritage while supporting charitable causes.

In recent years, the FBHVC has partnered with the NSPCC to raise funds for Childline, the charity’s free counselling and support service for children and young people. Fundraising is driven through the sale of official ‘rally plaques’, which participants display on their vehicles during the event.

Local enthusiasts aiming to surpass last year’s fundraising success

Last year’s Drive it Day event at Glenarm Castle raised more than £2,800 for Childline. Organiser Ken Smyth, representing UVOCC, said there is strong hope that this year’s event will exceed that total.

“We have been delighted with the success of our Drive it Day event in previous years, and the incredible amount of money raised by such generous donations,” he said.

“It’s always a lovely occasion with some truly stunning cars on display in a beautiful setting and we are so pleased that the NI Italian Car Club will be taking part once again, but we also invite owners of any make of classic car to get involved and join us.”

Participants can take part by purchasing an official rally plate, priced at £12.50, available through the Drive it Day Shop at https://www.driveitday.co.uk/shop and via the FBHVC website. Drivers are asked to specify UVOCC as the participating club when making their purchase.

Convoy routes and scenic coastal drive

This year’s event will see participants set off from two starting points: Lansdowne Crescent in Portrush and the Ballymac Hotel near Lisburn. From there, drivers will travel along the Antrim Coast Road — widely regarded as one of Northern Ireland’s most scenic routes — before arriving at Glenarm Castle.

However, organisers have stressed that those unable to join the convoy are welcome to travel independently and meet the group at the venue.

“Our plan is to set off from two venues in Northern Ireland: Lansdowne Crescent in Portrush and the Ballymac Hotel, near Lisburn. We will then drive along the scenic Antrim Coast Road to Glenarm and meet at the castle around midday, but if that does not suit, participants can make their own way to join us,” Mr Smyth added.

A family-friendly day out beyond the cars

While the event centres on classic vehicles, organisers are keen to emphasise its broader appeal. Glenarm Castle will remain open to the public throughout, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the estate’s grounds, facilities and atmosphere.

“It’s not just a day for car enthusiasts as Glenarm Castle is perfect for a lovely family day out - perhaps to go for a walk, enjoy a meal, or just have an ice cream and enjoy the atmosphere. We are delighted to be able to hold this event, once again, in such a perfect venue,” Mr Smyth said.

The UVOCC itself was founded by Ballymoney man Billy Maxwell as a Facebook group dedicated to promoting often-overlooked classic Vauxhall and Opel vehicles. The group has since grown into an active community, attending shows, organising outings and showcasing rare models across Northern Ireland.

Childline support at the heart of the event

Funds raised through Drive it Day will directly support Childline services in Northern Ireland, which operate from bases in Belfast and Foyle.

Susan Smith, NSPCC Supporter Relationship Fundraiser, praised the ongoing efforts of organisers and participants.

“We are indebted to the members of the UVOCC for such amazing support, hard work and generosity,” she said.

“The Drive it Day event is a wonderful day out for vintage car enthusiasts and people of all ages. We are also very grateful to Glenarm Castle for once again permitting the event to be held in their stunning grounds.

“We’re encouraging everyone to come along and enjoy the fun and the spectacle. The amazing amount of money raised last year helped our Childline service support children when they have nowhere else to turn.

“It would be wonderful to do the same again, this year.”

Members of the public attending the event will be able to donate to Childline either by scanning QR codes displayed on participating vehicles or by contributing directly to NSPCC collectors on site.

Event information and how to get involved

Further information about Drive it Day and the Federation of British Historical Vehicle Clubs is available at Drive It Day | Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs.

Details on Glenarm Castle’s facilities, opening times and entry arrangements can be found at www.glenarmcastle.com.

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At a glance

• Drive it Day takes place Sunday 26 April at Glenarm Castle

• Organised by Ulster Vauxhall Opel Classic Community (UVOCC)

• Participants will travel from Portrush and Lisburn along the Antrim Coast Road

• Event supports NSPCC’s Childline service

• Over £2,800 raised at last year’s event

• Rally plates cost £12.50 and are available online

• Public can donate via QR codes or NSPCC collectors on the day

• Open to all classic car owners and the general public

• Family-friendly event with access to Glenarm Castle grounds

• NI Italian Car Club returning to take part