Buckle up, Southampton! Car Stars at Westquay 2026 is racing back to the city from Sunday 24 May to Saturday 30 May 2026. This free, open-air exhibition transforms The Esplanade into a star-studded parking lot featuring some of the most famous vehicles from the silver screen and television history. Hosted daily starting at 10:00, it’s a high-octane celebration of pop culture that offers fans of all ages the rare chance to get up close to movie magic. Whether you’re a die-hard gearhead or just looking for the ultimate selfie, what’s on display this year promises to be a blockbuster experience.
Iconic Movie and TV Lineup
The 2026 edition of Car Stars at Westquay brings a curated selection of 10 unforgettable vehicles to Southampton, including legendary machines that have defined decades of film and television. For May 2026, the event promises brand-new additions to the fleet alongside returning fan favourites. The star-studded lineup includes:
- The Batmobile Collection: Marvel at the sleek 1989 classic Batmobile and the rugged, tank-like Tumbler from the Dark Knight trilogy.
- Animated Favourites: Meet Lightning McQueen in person, along with the groovy Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine.
- Nostalgic British Icons: Smile at the unmistakable yellow three-wheeler from Only Fools and Horses.
- New Surprises: Look out for newly added vehicles that have never been seen at the Westquay exhibition before.
Exploring The Esplanade and Westquay
The exhibition takes place on The Esplanade, a unique outdoor space framed by Southampton’s historic city walls. This provides a grand backdrop for photography while keeping you steps away from the city’s premier shopping and dining destination:
- Dining: Take a break at one of the many restaurants overlooking the display, ranging from quick bites to sit-down international cuisine.
- Shopping: Browse over 80 high-street brands within the main Westquay centre.
- Leisure: Extend your visit with a trip to the on-site cinema or bowling alley located just above the display area.
Event Schedule
Car Stars is a week-long celebration, running throughout the May half-term to ensure everyone has a chance to see the legends.
| Dates | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday 24 May – Saturday 30 May 2026 | 10:00 | 18:00 (6:00 PM) |
How to get to Westquay
Westquay is centrally located and served by excellent transport links, making it accessible for visitors from across the south coast.
- By Train: Southampton Central station is roughly a 10-minute walk away.
- By Bus: The centre is a major hub for local bus routes, with most stops located on the High Street or directly adjacent to the mall.
- By Ferry: The Hythe Ferry and Red Funnel terminals are within easy walking distance for those crossing the Solent.
Where to Park
Westquay offers extensive parking facilities designed for a stress-free arrival.
- On-site Parking: There are two main car parks (Multi-storey and Podium) providing thousands of spaces.
- Payment: The centre uses a ticketless “Drive in. Drive out.” system—simply pay at a machine or via the app using your registration number before leaving.
- Accessibility: Dedicated Blue Badge parking is available on multiple levels with direct lift access to the shopping floors and The Esplanade.
Witness Movie Magic First-Hand
Don’t miss your chance to see these legends in the metal. Discover more what’s on in Southampton and plan your ultimate day out.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need tickets for Car Stars at Westquay 2026?
- No, the event is completely free and no tickets or pre-booking are required. You can simply walk onto The Esplanade and enjoy the display at your leisure.
- Can I touch the cars or sit inside them?
- Generally, the vehicles are for display and photography only. Visitors are encouraged to snap as many photos as they like but are asked to respect any barriers to help preserve these iconic pieces of film history.
- What time does the event start?
- The display is open daily starting at 10:00 AM from Sunday 24 May through Saturday 30 May 2026.
- Is the exhibition accessible for wheelchairs?
- Yes, The Esplanade is a paved, flat area with lift and ramp access from the main Westquay shopping levels, making it fully accessible for all visitors.
- Will there be new cars this year?
- Yes, the 2026 event features brand-new cars joining the line-up alongside iconic returning favourites.
