An incredible line-up of evocative rally cars from past eras will be one of the many highlights at this autumn’s Cholmondeley Castle RallyFest on Saturday 28 October.
Set up to provide families with a full day of fun-fuelled entertainment, RallyFest is one of the 21 thrilling speed tests that make up the four-day Dayinsure Wales Rally GB, the UK’s round of the FIA World Rally Championship.
The majority of these spectacular timed sections are set in the legendary Welsh forests – RallyFest, however, is designed to appeal to new rally fans and those attending with children, who will benefit from easier access and more facilities than the traditional forest stages. And, having hosted many motor sport events in recent years, Cholmondeley Castle is the perfect venue for this brilliant automotive-themed attraction.
The dramatic World Championship cars and stars arrive in the afternoon for an electrifying blast around the Castle’s parkland roads – their presence providing an awesome climax to many hours of epic entertainment for all ages including eye-catching stunt shows, junior driving experiences plus a host of other engaging activities.
Whetting the appetite for what’s to come later in the day, a special showcase of historic rally cars will be on public display and reliving their glory days with stunning demonstration runs on the competitive track.
October’s showcase will feature a wide selection of idolised cars all appearing under the ‘Rally Legends’ banner. These will put the spotlight on standout icons from many much-loved previous generations such as Minis and Escorts, Group A and Group B plus the latest WRC epoch that began 20 years ago in 1997.
More than 40 great cars have already been confirmed, ranging from legendary Lancia Stratoses, MG Metro 6R4s and Audi quattros to more modern idols such as Ford Escort WRCs, Mitsubishi Evos and Subaru Imprezas as rallied by Richard Burns and Colin McRae in period.
“Everyone loves historic rally cars, and it was no surprise that they proved to be hugely popular with the thousands coming to Cholmondeley last year,” reported Ben Taylor, Managing Director of Dayinsure Wales Rally GB. “Far from sitting on our laurels, we are now serving up an even more comprehensive and mouth-watering collection as part of what will be a much enhanced RallyFest in October.”
With even an even bigger crowd expected at Cholmondeley Castle, a number of significant upgrades have been introduced. These include more catering facilities and a revised traffic management plan giving speedier access and egress from the venue to help spectator movements, plus an even greater array of amazing attractions to keep all ages entertained and amused throughout the day.
Tickets for the Cholmondeley Castle RallyFest are on sale, offering considerable discounts for those buying in advance. For those purchasing now, adult prices start at just £23 with accompanied children aged 15 and under admitted free – a real bonus for families with kids on half-term school holidays.
For those seeking a more premium experience, there is also a more exclusive Rally Xtra option priced at £160 per adult (children aged 6-15 years cost £120). This offers hearty food, convenient parking, dedicated toilet facilities and the best viewing spot – the Rally Xtra marquee is located on pole position adjacent to the Dayinsure Donut.
Full ticket and event information can be found on the official www.walesrallygb.com website and via the event’s social media channels.