About us

Here at Great Northern Classics, we keep classic motoring alive through culture, craftsmanship, hospitality and community.

A historic venue

For more than 170 years, our buildings have played a role in Derby’s engineering story. From the Victoria Ironworks and Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust to today’s thriving motoring destination, our location has always been a home for specialist skills, craftsmanship and innovation.

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A place to visit

Whether you’re visiting for a car meet, conference, social event or just a coffee, Great Northern Classics is a welcoming and accessible destination.

See what’s on

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A place to work

Great Northern Classics offers a thriving workspace for skilled mechanics, specialist engineers and automotive businesses.

Our workspace

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A close-knit community

Whether you’re visiting for a car meet, conference, social event or just a coffee, Great Northern Classics is a welcoming and accessible destination.

Community 

Our people

Behind Great Northern Classics is a team of people from diverse backgrounds in engineering, restoration, hospitality and business, all working to keep the site moving forward. 

Our people

Ambassadors

Our Ambassadors are respected figures who help champion GNC as a vibrant destination for classic motoring, restoration, music events and corporate gatherings. At the heart of the partnership is our ongoing ‘An Evening with…’ series – intimate events featuring conversations with automotive legends, sharing their stories, insights and lifelong passion for classic cars.

Meet Paul Cowland