Race the Waves, Bridlington

The Ultimate Guide to Race the Waves 2026: Bridlington’s Spectacular Vintage Beach Race

If you are searching for the most unique coastal event in the UK this year, look no further than Race the Waves 2026. This September, the golden sands of Bridlington South Beach will transform into a high-octane time machine, welcoming vintage speedsters, retro motorcycles, and thousands of spectators to the East Yorkshire coast.

Whether you’re a lifelong petrolhead or a family looking for a standout weekend away, here is everything you need to know about the Bridlington Vintage Vehicle Beach Race Festival.

When is Race the Waves 2026?

Mark your calendars for Friday, 11th September to Sunday, 13th September 2026.

While the beach racing is the main draw, the festival atmosphere takes over the entire town, starting with a stunning vehicle showcase in Bridlington Old Town on Friday before moving to the seafront for the weekend’s main events.

What to Expect: Sand, Speed, and Style

Race the Waves isn’t a typical track race. It is a "spirited" tribute to the automotive pioneers of the early 20th century. Influenced by historic British speed trials and American desert drag racing, the event features:

• Sand Drag Racing: Watch vintage cars and motorcycles roar across a 200-yard tidal sand course.

• The Static Auto Show: South Marine Drive becomes a gallery of classic engineering, featuring beautifully preserved cars and bikes.

• Vintage Lifestyle: From retro fashion to local artisan food stalls, the festival celebrates the best of heritage culture.

Event Schedule

• Friday, Sept 11: Pre-show gathering at Church Green in Bridlington Old Town. A perfect chance for photos without the sand!

• Saturday, Sept 12: Racing begins on South Beach at approx. 11:00 AM.

• Sunday, Sept 13: Racing begins on South Beach at approx. 12:00 PM.

(Note: Racing times are subject to the tide and weather conditions.)

Where to Stay in Bridlington

Bridlington is a popular seaside destination, and hotels fill up fast during the Race the Waves weekend. To ensure you’re close to the action, we recommend booking your accommodation well in advance.

Top-Rated Stays Near South Beach

For the best experience, look for hotels near the South Promenade to stay within walking distance of the racing.

• The Richie Hotel: Ideally located for those who want to be steps away from the beach and the static car displays. Check Availability & Prices

• Bridlington Seafront Apartments: Perfect for families or groups who prefer a self-catering setup with a view of the North Sea. Book Your Stay Here

• The Expanse Hotel: A classic choice located toward the North Marine Drive, offering traditional charm and great views. View Latest Deals

Pro Tip: If Bridlington is fully booked, consider staying in nearby Filey or Scarborough and taking the scenic coastal train directly into Bridlington station.

Accommodation in and around Bridlington and Filey

• The Richie Hotel: Ideally located for those who want to be steps away from the beach and the static car displays.

• Bridlington Seafront Apartments: Perfect for families or groups who prefer a self-catering setup with a view of the North Sea.

• The Expanse Hotel: A classic choice located toward the North Marine Drive, offering traditional charm and great views.

• Staying directly in Bridlington is a great way to be right in the heart of the action for your event. Here is a list of highly rated cottages, guest houses, and hotels in the town, providing various levels of service and privacy.

• Guest Houses & B&Bs

  Bridlington is famous for its high-quality, family-run guest houses, many of which are located just a short walk from the Bridlington Spa and the harbour.

• • Schofield Guest House: Known for its exceptional cleanliness and hospitality, this guest house is centrally located and highly rated for its breakfast.

  • The Brockton: A 4-star establishment offering traditional, bright rooms and an on-site bar. It is a solid choice if you want a warm atmosphere and guaranteed parking.

  • The Bluebell Guest House: A family-run B&B that offers a range of dietary options, including highly-regarded vegetarian and full English breakfasts.

  • Home and Away Guesthouse: A nautical-themed B&B that is perfect if you want something straightforward and cozy. It’s located close to the town center and beach.

  • Bridlington Blues: A convenient 3-star option that is often noted for its value and central location, making it easy to reach event venues on foot.

  Hotels

  For those who prefer the amenities and 24-hour nature of a hotel stay.

  • The Monarch Hotel: Located on the South Marine Drive, this hotel offers extensive sea views and is very close to the Bridlington Spa. It’s a traditional hotel with an on-site bar and restaurant.

  • The Lobster Pot (Marston's Inn): Situated slightly inland but very close to the main road links, this is a modern, purpose-built hotel offering reliable, consistent room quality with an adjacent pub-restaurant.

  • Premier Inn Bridlington Seafront: A dependable modern option located right on the north beach, offering air-conditioned rooms and an on-site Cookhouse + Pub.

  Cottages & Self-Catering

• Ideal for those who want more space or a private garden during their stay.

  • Expanse Sea View Apartments: Located at the northern end of the promenade, these offer the privacy of an apartment with the views and service of a hotel.

  • Sewerby Grange: Situated in the Sewerby area (just north of Bridlington), this historic property offers a more upscale, secluded feel while still being within walking distance of the town via the cliff-top paths.

  • The Bolthole: A charming, small terrace cottage located in the "Old Town" area of Bridlington. It’s perfect if you prefer the aesthetic of the historic quarter over the modern seafront.

  Strategic Location Tips

  • The Spa/South Beach: If your event is at Bridlington Spa, aim for the South Marine Drive area. You will be able to walk to your event in minutes.

  • The Old Town: For a quieter stay with independent shops and galleries, look at the Old Town (High Street area). It is about a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from the seafront.

Staying in Filey is a close alternative. I prefer staying in Filey and visiting Bridlington, and I believe is a good practical choice, as the two towns are only about 11 miles apart. The drive typically takes 20 minutes, and the train journey is even faster at just 11 minutes, making it easy to commute between the two.

Cottages & Self-Catering

These are ideal if you prefer a "home away from home" with flexible check-ins and kitchen facilities.

• The Bay Filey (Holiday Village): A large purpose-built resort just south of Filey. It offers a range of modern cottages (e.g., Coastal Cottage, Lilipad Cottage) and apartments.

  Perks: On-site swimming pool, gym, and pharmacy/shop. Direct beach access.

• Sunrise Cottage (Filey Seafront):

• Beech Cottage (Hunmanby):

• Seapoint (Primrose Valley):

Hotels & Guesthouses

These options provide more traditional service, often including breakfast to set you up for your event.

• Athol Guest House (Filey):

• The Southgate B&B (Hunmanby):

• The Piebald Inn (Hunmanby):

• White Lodge Hotel (Filey):

Strategic Location Tips

• For the Train: If you don't want to drive, look for accommodation in Hunmanby or central Filey. The train service to Bridlington is reliable and very quick.