Inside the world’s most boring festival where thousands flock to see ‘unexceptional’ cars

It’s the event where being boring is the whole point.

Every year thousands of fans travel from across the world for the Festival of the Unexceptional (FOTU) at Grimsthorpe Castle, in Lincolnshire.

Created to champion the most basic cars you can imagine, the grounds are packed with around 2,500 much-loved but largely forgotten family vehicles now rarely seen on Britain’s roads.

The event this weekend was in its 12th year and entries must have been manufacturedbetween 25 and 50 years ago to qualify.

Fifty are selected to compete for top prize, with this year’s judges having included editor-in-chief at Autocar Steve Cropley, content creator Steph Hoy, motoring journalists Richard Bremner, Jesse Billington, Antony Ingram and Gary Axon, as well as TV presenter Jon Bentley.

First place went to Gordon McNeill and his 2001 Volkswagen Polo E, which has been owned and loved for 20 years. It was Gordon’s first car and – despite having battle-scarred paintwork – is still the only car he has ever owned, racking up 176,000 miles.

In second was a very rare 1992 Toyota Previa, owned by Matt Swinn, who uses it to haul his band and their equipment all over the country.

Despite its heavy use, Matt has kept it meticulously maintained. He is so dedicated that he even framed the 1990s sweet wrappers, receipts and other period rubbish found under the seats when he bought it.

Third place went to a 2001 Ford Focus owned by Jake Seddon. The car originally belonged to his grandad and was restored by his father.

It was displayed alongside many family photos, and the judges commended the condition of the car and its family connection.

Other special mentions went to a 1991 Ford P100 TD owned by Jack Duxbury, a 2000 Kia Clarus Wagon owned by Marwin Jansen, a 1986 Citroen Axel owned by Rick Martens, a 1982 Fiat 127 owned by Maia Egan and a 1994 Honda Civic Bali owned by Emma Rowe.

Away from the cars on the main stage was live music and interviews.

The festival is hosted by insurance provider Hagerty. Mark Roper, the company’s managing director, said: ‘Wow. Just when we think the Festival of the Unexceptional can’t get any bigger, it grows again and is more spectacular than ever.

‘What a delight to see the lawns of Grimsthorpe Castle covered with thousands of FOTU cars, being enjoyed by 4,500 people from all around the world.

‘Thanks to each and every person who came for their dedication, passion and support of all things FOTU.’

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