Race the Waves & Steampunk Weekend
Vintage Beach Drag Racing, Wall of Death and Victorian Steampunk Magic.

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Posted on 28th July 2026

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One of the most unique spectating experiences on the UK coastal calendar, Race the Waves returns to Bridlington South Beach for a thrilling weekend of vintage motoring homage. Paying tribute to the early 20th-century motor speed trials held along the Yorkshire coast, this action-packed festival sees pre-1964 hot rods, classic motorcycles, and custom vehicles perform 'spirited drag races' across a 200-yard tidal sand track.

Running from Friday 11th to Sunday 13th September 2026, the festival transforms the South Promenade and Old Boating Lake area. Best of all, it pairs seamlessly with the Great Bridlington Steampunk Weekend taking place right next door inside Bridlington Spa, making for an unforgettable double-header weekend of free seaside entertainment!

Thrills on the Sand: Race the Waves 🏎️🏁

Organised by Backfire Promotions in partnership with Visit East Yorkshire, the weekend offers a sensory feast of roaring engines, burning fuel, and retro coastal atmosphere:

• Friday Launch at Church Green (10:00 AM – 10:00 PM): Before the beach action starts, the vehicles display in Bridlington Old Town, giving visitors a chance to meet drivers and inspect the vintage machinery up close.
• Saturday Beach Racing (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM approx): Vehicles line up in pairs (and motorcycles in groups of 4 or 5) for head-to-head drag sprints across the compacted wet sands, flagged off by traditional flag starters.
• Sunday Beach Racing (12:00 PM – 4:30 PM approx): A second day of beach racing dependent on tide timings, surrounded by live commentary, food stalls, and static auto displays along South Marine Drive.
• Ken Fox Wall of Death: A thrilling live stunt show located on the Old Boating Lake site next to Bridlington Spa.
• Beach Tank Rides & Yorkshire Bus Bar: Enjoy unique beach tank rides alongside refreshments served from a vintage double-decker bus hub.

Great Bridlington Steampunk Weekend 🎩⚙️

Running alongside the beach races on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th September 2026, the 6th annual Great Bridlington Steampunk Weekend takes over the historic Royal Hall inside Bridlington Spa.

Creating a dazzling contrast to the beach drag racers outside, thousands of festival-goers dress in elaborate Victorian-futuristic attire. Inside the Royal Hall, visitors will find:

• An Exquisite Steampunk Emporium: Dozens of artisan trade stalls selling unique apparel, goggles, accoutrements, leatherwork, and retro-futuristic art.
• Live Presentations & Author Readings: Workshops, talks, and performances running throughout both days.
• Steampunk Promenade Parade: Promenading opportunities along the seafront for photographers and spectators to admire the incredible costumes.
• 100% Free Entry: Just like the beach racing, entry to the Steampunk festival inside the Royal Hall is completely free of charge!

Photo Gallery

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Plan Your Visit 📅

Essential visitor details for organizing your double-header weekend in Bridlington:

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Admission Cost

FREE ENTRY

Free entry for both spectators along South Promenade and visitors entering the Steampunk Emporium at Bridlington Spa! (Small fee applies for Wall of Death & Tank Rides).

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2026 Event Timings

Race the Waves: Fri 11th (Old Town 10am-10pm), Sat 12th (Beach 11am-4pm), Sun 13th (Beach 12pm-4:30pm)
Steampunk Weekend: Sat 12th (10am-5pm) & Sun 13th Sept (10am-4pm)

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Tide & Weather Notice

Beach racing depends entirely on low tide conditions. Times may adjust slightly on the day depending on beach safety inspections.

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Dog Policy

Dogs are welcome on leads along South Promenade and viewing areas, but are strictly prohibited inside the Royal Hall at Bridlington Spa.

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Visitor Tip

Elevated views along the South Promenade fill early. Secure your spot overlooking the beach start line by 10:30 AM on Saturday!

Getting There 🗺️

📍 Event Grounds:

Bridlington South Beach, South Promenade & Bridlington Spa, YO15 3JH

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🚗 Driving & Park & Ride

Visitors arriving via the A165 or A164 are advised to use the Bridlington South Cliff Park & Ride (YO15 3QN). The Land Train or coastal footpaths run directly from the car park to the beach racing arena and Bridlington Spa.

🚆 By Train & Bus

Direct Northern Rail trains connect Hull, Scarborough, and Beverley into Bridlington Railway Station. From the station, it is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk down to the seafront and Bridlington Spa.