Brechin Castle will welcome the first Lombard Rally Festival to North East Scotland on 13–14 June 2026, as part of a special fundraising weekend in support of the Scottish Air Ambulance.
The weekend forms part of the wider Lombard Rally Festival series and will combine historic rally car action with hospitality, storytelling, and charitable fundraising. Activities begin on Thursday 11 June with a Golf Day at nearby Edzell Golf Club, setting the tone for a unique few days of motorsport and community support.
Historic Rally Cars Return to the Stage
The Lombard Rally Festival series reflects the growing interest in historic rally cars from the 1960s through to the early 2000s. Many of these cars are no longer used in competitive rallying due to their value, limited availability of parts, or changes in regulations.
These events offer a different approach.
Rather than competition, the focus is on demonstration. Spectators can see iconic rally cars in action on a specially constructed stage within the grounds of Brechin Castle, while also enjoying close access in the paddock.
Cars expected include machines from rallying’s most recognisable eras, including Audi Quattros, Lancia models, and Peugeot World Rally Cars. Visitors can get close to the cars, speak with drivers, and experience the action without the restrictions of traditional rally viewing.
Inspired by the Lombard RAC Rally
The series draws inspiration from the legendary Lombard RAC Rally of the 1970s and 1980s. These multi-day events once attracted some of the largest sporting crowds in the UK, with late November weekends drawing more spectators than all Football League matches combined.
The Lombard Rally Festival brings that spirit back, in a format that is more accessible to both participants and spectators.
Rally Legends in Attendance
Brechin Castle will also host a number of well-known figures from the rally world.
Expected guests include:
- Harri Toivonen (Finland)
- Harald Demuth, multi-time German rally champion
- Andy Dawson, the only driver to win a forest international rally in the iconic Lancia Stratos
Across the weekend, these drivers will be present on site, driving period cars and sharing stories from their careers.
On Saturday evening, an informal dinner will take place at Edzell Golf Club, where Andy Dawson will recount his experiences from rallying around the world. Hospitality tickets for this event will be available.
Supporting the Scottish Air Ambulance
The event will also play a key role in supporting the Scottish Air Ambulance.
On Thursday 11 June, Edzell Golf Club will host a Charity Golf Day with a shotgun start at 11:00am. Proceeds from the day, along with motorsport items auctioned during the weekend by Harri Toivonen, will go directly to the charity.
There will also be opportunities to purchase passenger rides in historic rally cars, including the Audi Quattro S1 E2, offering a unique way to support the cause.
Ways to Get Involved
The Lombard Rally Festival offers several ways to take part:
- Spectator access across both days
- Passenger ride experiences in historic rally cars
- Hospitality packages for individuals or corporate groups
- Opportunities to hire rally cars, such as a Nissan Sunny or Ford Escort
- Optional driver tuition from former World Champion drivers
Alongside the rally action, a display of classic and sports cars will also be present within the castle grounds.
A Strong Lead-In to the Future
With Aberdeen expected to host a round of the World Rally Championship in 2027, the Brechin Castle event offers a strong preview of what’s to come in the region.
Event Details
Brechin Castle
13–14 June 2026