The British Motor Show is set to return to Farnborough International this August, promising a huge family day out packed with cars, entertainment and live action. Running from August 21 to 23, the show will bring new cars, celebrity guests, interactive experiences, and entertainment to the exhibition centre just over the Surrey border, with kids going free when accompanied by a paying adult. A refreshed 2026 layout will spread the action across new and expanded zones, with everything from supercars and modified motors to gaming, live music and street food. Sonic, Paddington and TV stars join the line-up Families can expect plenty of famous faces across the weekend, with Skye from PAW Patrol appearing on Friday, August 21, Sonic the Hedgehog joining the action in The Grid on Saturday, August 22, and Paddington meeting young fans on Sunday, August 23. Automotive presenters Grace Webb, Tim Shaw, Helen Stanley and Sam Hard have also joined the celebrity hosting team, while renowned stunt driver Paul Swift will bring a brand-new Stunt Supershow to the event. New experiences put visitors in the driving seat One of the biggest additions for 2026 is The Grid, a new e-sports and sim-racing area where visitors can test their reactions on racing games and professional driving simulators, including Alpine Sim Racing. The Showroom will showcase the latest cars, including electric vehicles and family SUVs, while an expanded Ride & Drive programme will let visitors get behind the wheel rather than simply admire them. Plenty for younger visitors The returning LEGO and Smyths Toys area is expected to be a major draw, while Draper Tools will bring back its Discovery Garage, designed to inspire young people and families through practical automotive activities. Under-17s can attend for free with a paying adult, making the event a family-friendly option for