Cheltenham Classic Coach Gathering

Cheltenham was the hub of Associated Motorways (AM) activity from its formation in 1934 as passengers swapped between colourful and luxurious coaches to continue their long distance journeys across the British Isles. The bell rang out daily for the mass departure of the serried ranks of coaches…. until 1984 when the practise ceased. This unique event marks the 90th and 40th anniversaries respectively as well as 60 years since the first Bristol 'RE' coaches entered service for Royal Blue. On Saturday 6 July coaches will follow their own inbound AM routes to Cheltenham from across the country assembling to create an impressive display of design and luxury from the heydays of coaching (courtesy of Cheltenham Town FC, Whaddon Road). The coaches have been skillfully restored by private owners and, where they permit, visitors can climb aboard and sink into the seats to imagine or recall the experience of long-distance coach travel.

Entrants will partake overnight in hospitality traditionally afforded to coach drivers. On Sunday 7th the rolling display and trips to the former coach station, its modern incarnation and the railway station will end when the bell rings out once again for a spectacular mass departure. So, will you be there with a chance to ring the bell?? 

Souvenir Programmes

Our souvenir programmes contain all the information you need to enjoy your weekend. There are details of the luxury coaches and their stylish design features redolent of bygone eras.  Articles draw on recollections of key players in the formation and running of Associated Motorways operations through Cheltenham.  There are also details of the trips certain coaches will offer (free of charge) to key transport locations around Cheltenham.

Programmes can be purchased in advance online (£8.00 inc p&p).  They will also be available on the day.

Vehicle Entries

Coach entries are warmly invited, particularly those representing the companies which comprised Associated Motorways – you can enter online or download an entry form in Word or pdf formats.

Further details of the coaches entered  for the weekend will be added as the event dates approach.