Car Spotting in London: A Guide to Finding Rare Gems
Introduction
London is a city where you’re more likely to spot a Ferrari than a Ford Fiesta. With its exclusive neighborhoods and excellent transport links, the capital offers car spotters a unique opportunity to see some of the world’s rarest cars. However, without knowing where and when to look, it can be a hit-or-miss experience. Fortunately, the rise of social media has revolutionized car spotting, allowing enthusiasts to share locations and exciting finds. In this article, we explore the thrill of car spotting in London and provide tips for rookies.
The Rise of Car Spotting
Social media platforms like Instagram have played a significant role in popularizing car spotting. Enthusiasts can now share their finds and build a following, with some even turning their passion into successful media careers. One notable example is Tim Burton, known online as Shmee150, who started uploading car spotting videos on YouTube and now has millions of subscribers and his own supercar collection.
A Day of Car Spotting in London
To get a firsthand experience of car spotting, I meet up with Autocar photographer Jack Harrison at the Hilton hotel on Park Lane, a prime location for spotting prestigious cars. However, our initial search proves fruitless, with only an unexpected sighting of a Vauxhall Zafira catching our attention. It’s not until we reach Berkeley Square that our efforts pay off, spotting a Ferrari 430 Scuderia. As we continue our journey, Harrison shares his first nugget of wisdom: always check the mews, hidden courtyards where rare cars are often tucked away.
Following Harrison’s advice, we stumble upon a Bugatti Veyron in one of the mews, a sight that highlights the irony of seeing such a revered car in an inconspicuous location. Our day takes an exciting turn when we receive a tip-off about the UK’s first Mercedes-AMG One being brought out of hiding. We rush to Belgravia, where a crowd has gathered around the hypercar. Witnessing the enthusiasm and camaraderie among car spotters, I begin to understand the allure of this hobby.
The Thrill of Car Spotting
Car spotting is not just about seeing rare cars; it’s about the shared excitement and the sense of community among enthusiasts. Car spotters form friendships and travel together, united by their passion for cars. The online community allows them to share their experiences and create a ripple effect of excitement. Despite occasional negative encounters with owners who dislike being photographed, the enthusiasm of car spotters remains unwavering.
Three Tips for Car-Spotting Rookies
For those new to car spotting, here are three essential tips:
1. Pay Attention
Keep your head on a swivel to avoid missing any passing cars. Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for oncoming traffic.
2. Know Where You’re Going
Familiarize yourself with car spotting hotspots and plan your route accordingly. Utilize public transport links to quickly chase rumors of cars on the streets.
3. Don’t Be Fooled
London buses can sound surprisingly similar to high-performance cars. Don’t be fooled by the noise and mistake a bus for a Lamborghini Aventador.
Meet the Spotters
Two prolific car spotters share their experiences:
Josh Scoot, Instagram @scootsupercars
With a following of 140,000, Scoot started car spotting with his father and turned it into an ongoing adventure to see rare cars. He emphasizes the fun and excitement of ticking off each car on his list.
Nathan Craig, Instagram @nathanlovesbacon
Craig discovered his passion for car spotting at a young age and has since built friendships within the car spotting community. He highlights the thrill of photographing cars in unique environments and the feeling of being hooked on that experience.
Car spotting in London offers a thrilling and rewarding experience for enthusiasts. With the right knowledge and a keen eye, you can uncover hidden automotive treasures and become part of a vibrant community that shares your passion. So, grab your camera and hit the streets of London in search of rare gems!
