Fleet of 50 Classic Rolls-Royce Cars to Grace Derby’s Cathedral Quarter This May

An extraordinary fleet of more than 50 classic Rolls-Royce cars – including a model once used by King George V himself – will roll into Derby’s Cathedral Quarter this May for a spectacular public showcase.

The event, known as Wings and Wheels, promises to be a highlight of the city's spring calendar and will take place on Saturday, May 17.

Organised by community group Love Sadler Gate, The Old Bell Hotel, and The Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club, Wings and Wheels will see the city’s historic centre transformed into a gleaming tribute to one of Britain's most iconic motoring marques. Vehicles will be proudly displayed across The Market Place, Iron Gate, and Cathedral Green, offering visitors an up-close look at some truly remarkable examples of Rolls-Royce craftsmanship.

Among the stars of the show will be several legendary Silver Ghosts, a 1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith that once transported dignitaries including Winston Churchill, and an exquisite Rolls-Royce Phantom originally delivered to the Royal Yacht Britannia in 1926. In a more unusual twist, visitors can also admire a 1970s Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow that, despite never having been cleaned, remains in flawless mechanical condition—a testament to the brand's engineering excellence.

Paul Hurst, owner of The Old Bell Hotel and one of the key organisers behind the event, has been working closely with The Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club to bring this unique celebration to Derby.

He said:

“Wings and Wheels is a first for our city, and I’m incredibly excited to work alongside our partners to make it a reality. We are thrilled to welcome these extraordinary vehicles into the historic heart of Derby. Special thanks must go to The Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club, whose members have so generously agreed to share their treasured cars with the public."

Whether you're a car enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a great day out, Wings and Wheels promises a truly unforgettable experience — a rare chance to see these magnificent machines where heritage, engineering, and elegance meet.