ARDEN BRITISH DAY 2024

After the morning fog has lifted over the Lower Rhine landscape, classic and modern classic cars slowly roll in from all directions along the motorways and country roads. At 11 a.m. on the dot, the first cars line up at the end of the Zelem road and drive towards the historic Zelem castle complex: the 5th Arden British Day begins.

It’s going to be a long day for the volunteers, as the stream of classic cars – not only of British origin – continues unabated. To everyone’s delight, the sky gets bluer and bluer, and visitors spread out picnic blankets in the finest English style in front of the automotive rarities. Most of the car enthusiasts come from Germany and the neighbouring Netherlands. But there are also Arden Jaguar drivers from Denmark, a Mini Morris driver from Budapest and guests from France, Luxembourg, Austria and the Jaguar motherland. It is impressive that a small private initiative with just under 50 vehicles has developed into a privately organised event with around 800 vehicles and 1,800 visitors within just a few years: classic cars are clearly in vogue.

However, the British Day is not just a meeting place for classic car fans, but also for all those who have accompanied the 50-year history of the Arden brand. Racing legends from the time when Arden competed in European competitions with its own racing team, Arden Racing, find their way to the Lower Rhine as well as numerous Arden owners who proudly present their gems on the extensive meadows in front of Zelem Castle. For example, an Arden AJ 4 from Switzerland happens to be parked next to an Arden AJ 4 from Berlin.

At the end of the day, host Jochen Arden is asked which is the most beautiful car at the event. He takes a quick look at his own two cars: the Arden AJ 5, which is considered the godfather of the Arden British Day, and his latest creation, the Arden AJ 23 RS. With a smile, he replies: ‘I’m afraid you’re asking the wrong person! My heart beats for so many brands, because every vehicle has its own appeal. For some it’s the classic Jaguar with its elegance, for others perhaps a charming Mini or a powerful Ferrari.’ Beauty is in the eye of the beholder – it’s the history, the passion and the memories that make every car special. And that is exactly what makes the Arden British Day so unique.