Race The Waves

Experience the Thrill of Beach Racing on the Yorkshire Coast

Feel the rumble of powerful engines, breathe in the sea air, and witness vintage cars and motorcycles race across the sands of Bridlington South Beach at Race the Waves 2026.

One of East Yorkshire’s largest and most spectacular events, Race the Waves returns to Bridlington from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 September 2026, bringing together motoring enthusiasts, families and visitors for an unforgettable seaside weekend.

A Unique Motorsport Event

Race the Waves is unlike any other event on the UK motoring calendar. Inspired by the golden age of speed trials, it celebrates a time when Yorkshire’s beaches were among the first venues used for land speed record attempts.

Throughout the weekend, an impressive collection of vintage vehicles lines up on a 200-yard course etched into the freshly exposed tidal sands. Cars compete in pairs in exhilarating drag races, while motorcycles often launch in groups of four or five, creating a spectacular display of speed and skill.

Adding to the atmosphere, races are traditionally started by a lady waving a chequered flag, while renowned commentator Graham Beckwith keeps crowds entertained with expert insights and race action throughout the day. The event draws inspiration from early British motor speed trials as well as iconic American desert and street drag racing culture.

New for 2026

Ken Fox Wall of Death

Making its Race the Waves debut in 2026 is the legendary Ken Fox Wall of Death. This jaw-dropping live performance showcases incredible skill, precision and daring as riders defy gravity in one of the UK's most iconic motorcycle stunt shows.

• Tickets: £4 per person
• Payment: Cash or card
• Tickets available on the day

Yorkshire Bus Bar

Visitors can relax and soak up the atmosphere at the Yorkshire Bus Bar, presented by Yorkshire Event Bars. Set within a beautifully converted vintage bus, this welcoming social hub offers a fantastic selection of refreshments in a memorable and distinctive setting.

Both the Wall of Death and Yorkshire Bus Bar will be located on the historic Old Boating Lake site, next to Bridlington Spa, creating a lively gathering place alongside the beach racing action.

Beach Tank Rides

Looking for something completely different? Try the brand-new Beach Tank Rides from SWB Motorsport.

Take a ride in a tank along Bridlington South Beach and enjoy a truly unique coastal adventure.

• Available between 10am and 4pm
• Cost: £10 per person
• Minimum height: 1.2 metres
• Times may vary depending on weather and tidal conditions

Race the Waves 2026 Schedule

Friday 11 September | 10am to 10pm

The weekend begins in the heart of Bridlington Old Town, where visitors can admire a fantastic display of race vehicles and motorcycles on Church Green.

This is the perfect opportunity to meet competitors, take photos and see the machines up close before they hit the beach. Entertainment will be provided throughout the day by Bridlington Gold Radio.

Please note: Parking will be suspended, and road closures will be in place on Church Green and part of Kirkgate from 6am to 7pm.

Saturday 12 September

• Food and drink stalls open from 10am on South Beach Promenade
• Beach racing starts at approximately 11am
• Racing finishes at approximately 4pm, subject to beach conditions

Sunday 13 September

• Food and drink stalls open from 10am on South Beach Promenade
• Beach racing starts at approximately 12 noon
• Racing finishes at approximately 4.30pm, subject to beach conditions

More Events to Enjoy During the Weekend

Great Bridlington Steampunk Weekend

Running alongside Race the Waves, Bridlington Spa hosts the 6th annual Great Bridlington Steampunk Weekend.

Taking place inside the stunning Royal Hall, this family-friendly festival features live entertainment, presentations, workshops, authors and an extraordinary marketplace filled with imaginative fashion, accessories and collectibles.

Opening times:

• Saturday: 10am to 5pm
• Sunday: 10am to 4pm

RNLI Hot Rod Display

Visit Bridlington Lifeboat Station on Princess Mary Promenade to explore a fascinating display of hot rods and enjoy a range of family activities.

Opening times:

• Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 4pm

Visitors can also enjoy refreshments, entertainment and activities for both adults and children.

Bridlington Lions Car & Motorbike Display

Head to South Marina Drive to discover an exciting collection of cars and motorcycles showcased by Bridlington Lions.

Opening times:

• Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 5pm

The display also features food and drink vendors, with fundraising activities supporting local charitable causes.

Travel, Parking and Road Closures

To accommodate the event, South Marine Drive will be closed from 7am to 7pm throughout the weekend.

Main event parking is available at:

• South Cliff Park & Ride – YO15 3QN
• Strawberry Fields – YO15 3NG

Additional parking information can be found via the East Riding of Yorkshire Council car park finder.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you're a dedicated motoring enthusiast, a family looking for a memorable day out, or simply seeking a unique event on the Yorkshire coast, Race the Waves offers a fantastic mix of heritage, entertainment and seaside atmosphere.

For more information, visit Race the Waves, follow the event on Facebook at RtW.Full.Throttle.Action, or on Instagram at @racethewaves.

To discover more events delivered and supported by the Visit East Yorkshire Events Team, visit www.visiteastyorkshire.co.uk and follow Visit East Yorkshire on social media.