Cold War Wheels Is Back in York this weekend
Expect Retro Rides, Spy Vibes & 80s Bangers
York, get ready – Cold War Wheels is rolling back into town this weekend, and it’s bringing Cold War cool, classic motors and a healthy dose of nostalgia.
This Sunday (15 June), the Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington plays host to Cold War Wheels 2025, and if you’re picturing a standard car show… think again. This one’s got a proper Cold War twist, with everything from souped-up saloons to military jets and the odd quirky invention that probably shouldn’t have made it out of the garage (hello, Sinclair C5.
So what’s parked up?
More than 130 vintage vehicles are expected to rock up — think Ford Capris, Triumph Stags, boxy Volvos, ex-police motors, a double-decker bus and even the museum’s own 1970s airport crash truck. Because nothing says Cold War drama like a big red emergency wagon from the past.
The cars cover the lot — 1960s to 1980s icons that roamed the roads during a time when the world was casually on the brink of nuclear catastrophe. Light stuff.
And the backdrop? Just a few Cold War-era jets and supersonic bombers sitting nearby, looking dramatic and reminding you that yes, this is the Yorkshire Air Museum — and they do things properly.
A bit of espionage with your engine talk?
It’s not just about shiny bonnets and exhaust notes — there’s also a chance to step inside York’s Cold War past. Pop into a talk all about the Royal Observer Corps bunker in Holgate (yes, the one hidden in plain sight). Historian Graham Cook and ROC veteran Tim Kitching will be sharing real-life stories from the frontlines of hypothetical doom.
Short films, strong stories
The museum’s also screening Cold War Stories all day in its cinema – a series of short films from last year’s exhibition. You’ll hear voices from both sides of the Iron Curtain – everyone from bomber pilots to Soviet citizens. (Fair warning: might have you Googling Cold War documentaries afterwards.)
And yes, there’ll be a soundtrack
Because it wouldn’t be an 80s-leaning car fest without some big anthems. Expect retro tunes, denim jackets and probably someone talking very seriously about carburettors.
Fancy it?
It’s all included in your standard museum ticket, so whether you’re into classic cars, Cold War history or just love a bit of quirky Sunday exploring, this one’s worth the ride out to Elvington. To find out more just visit here and as always, if you are coming to Yorkl and you need a place to stay then just visit our website www.houseofyork.org and book:
- one of our homes for up to six people
- two of our homes for up to 12 people
- or all three together for up to 18 people
Rather conveniently, all our houses are next door to each other!
Want to read more for your next visit to York?
Then download a free copy of our book York Local Knowledge Must-do Top Tens & the vouchers to get them for less where you will discover the historic UK city of York like a local with tips, top tens, and guidance on where to find the best discounts and vouchers, so you can experience it all without breaking the bank!
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This isn’t your average guidebook—it’s a laugh-out-loud, down-to-earth companion, packed with top-ten lists covering everything from essential attractions and hidden gems to entertainment, dining spots, walks, tours, festivals, and shopping, all enriched with a local’s insider knowledge.
With insights, amusing anecdotes, and a sprinkling of puns and dad jokes, Alistair’s love letter to York will help you see the city in a whole new way. Grab a copy and start planning the York adventure you didn’t know you were missing!
With over 240 pages, this guide is ideal for families and groups of friends planning a trip to York and includes:
Up-to-date information on everything in the ever-changing city of York—this is the 2025 edition.
Top ten lists of York’s best tourist attractions, entertainment spots, food and drink, walks, tours, festivals, and independent shops.
Beautiful photography accompanying every recommendation.
Answers to visitors’ top questions, from “Where’s the best place for ice cream?” to “Where can I find a great takeaway curry?”
Recommendations on where locals go for up-to-date information about York.
The best places to stay, from five-star hotels to holiday homes and houseboats.
Details on where to find discounts and vouchers for York restaurants, attractions, and experiences.
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Book one of our Holiday Homes for your next trip to York
Are you looking for a great place to stay for your next trip to York. All 3 of our holiday homes are next door to each other which means you can hire them individually for up to 6 people or together for up to 12 (107 & 109 together) or even 18 people (Spencer House & 107 & 109 together).
To check availability and book just visit www.houseofyork.org
We pride ourselves on being couples and family friendly and we try to take any of the stress out of your stay so you can focus on enjoying yourselves and magnificent York.