East Coast Retro’s is an amazing group, run by incredible people in Suffolk. The organising team has cultivated a reputation for excellence, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere that welcomes every vehicle enthusiast, from seasoned collectors to those just beginning their classic car journey. Many VINTTRO members are regular faces at East Coast Retros, and we’re proud to promote this group to our members and clients.

The Venue: A Picturesque Setting for Petrolheads

Held at The Rose in Shotley, these meets offer the quintessential British pub-meet experience. The expansive field tucked behind the pub provides the perfect canvas for a stunning variety of classic and retro machinery. As the sun sets over the Suffolk countryside, the grounds regularly fill with everything from gleaming chrome vintage cruisers to the boxy, nostalgic lines of 80s and 90s icons. It is a true “curated riot” of automotive history where there is genuinely something to suit every taste.

Why Attend?

Beyond the cars, the East Coast Retro’s events are about the people. It’s a place to swap restoration tips, share stories of the open road, and enjoy the camaraderie of a thriving community. With a massive following of over 12,500 members on Facebook, East Coast Retro’s is more than just a car show; it is a vital hub for the UK’s retro car scene.

Key Information for Visitors

To ensure the best experience for all attendees, please note the following guidelines:

• Main Field Eligibility: To maintain the event’s unique aesthetic, parking on the primary display field is strictly for vehicles registered before 2001 (Pre-51 Plate).

• Inclusive Parking: If your daily driver or modern performance car doesn’t qualify for the main field, don’t worry. Additional on-site parking is available, allowing you to park up and stroll through the displays with ease.

• A Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The meets are designed to be social and respectful. Whether you’re there for the all-day Sunday events or a mid-week evening catch-up, you’ll find a relaxed and friendly environment.

2026 Event Calendar

We highly recommend marking your calendars and taking a trip to Shotley on the following dates. These meets are a highlight of the Suffolk automotive season:

• Sunday, 22nd March (All-day Season Opener)

• Friday, 17th April

• Tuesday, 19th May

• Friday, 19th June

• Wednesday, 15th July

• Wednesday, 5th August

• Friday, 21st August

• Wednesday, 16th September

• Saturday, 3rd October (Season Finale)

We encourage you to join fellow enthusiasts for a springtime feast of classic and retro cars. It is the perfect way to launch the social automotive season in style.

Disclaimer: Please note that VINTTRO has no official association, partnership, or commercial link with the East Coast Retro’s group. We are sharing this information solely to alert our valued members and clients to what we believe is wonderful event’s that aligns with the automotive lifestyle we support.

The VINTTRO Lifestyle: More Than a Membership

Being part of VINTTRO means moving beyond the role of a solitary car owner. Our membership is designed for those who view their vehicles as a passport to new experiences.

• Shared Knowledge: Engage with a network of enthusiasts who understand the nuances of niche marques.

• Collective Presence: From dedicated parking areas to organised tours and road trips

• Authentic Connections: Whether over a morning coffee or a drive to a East Coast Retro’s event, VINTTRO facilitates genuine networking among enthusiasts and collectors.

The VINTTRO Benefit: Protecting Your Passion

Owning a niche vehicle is an investment of both time and capital. Part of our mission is to help educate owners on how to protect that investment through a comprehensive approach to risk management and specialist support.

• VINTTRO Cover: Standard insurance often fails to account for the nuances of rare marques. We offer specialist products tailored to the unique needs of high-value classics and ongoing projects, ensuring you have the right protection whether your car is on the road, in the workshop, or in transit to a European tour.

• Agreed Value Expertise: Don’t leave your investment to market averages. Our experts at VINTTRO Cover will work with you to establish a true “Agreed Value,” reflecting not just the model, but the specific provenance and the hundreds of hours of specialist care invested in its maintenance and presentation.

• Verified Network: Finding the right hands to touch your vehicle can be daunting. Our “Niche Specialist Network“ eliminates the guesswork as our partners has the technical proficiency and reputation, ensuring your car is always handled by professionals who respect its heritage and the brand.

• Active Appreciation: We believe the best way to protect a car is to use it. Our community provides the resources and technical advice to keep these machines in peak operating condition, preventing the degradation that comes from static storage and ensuring they remain “show-ready” for years to come.

If you would like find out more about VINTTRO Cover and all of our insurance services contact us by email insurance@vinttro.co.uk, or perhaps we’ll meet at an East Coast Retro’s event soon, we would be delighted to see you.