FAQ's

What is the Pageant of Power?

Since 2008 it has been the aim of the Pageant of Power to showcase the best of historic and contemporary automotive power, whether on Land, Sea or in the Air.  
Central to the action at the is the 1.2 mile track within the Park grounds of Cholmondeley Castle where over 120 cars and bikes compete, spanning seven decades of motorsports.  
On the 25 acre Deer Park Mere, the Pageant hosts the largest gathering of inshore racing power boats in the UK, World Champion Jet Ski Demonstrations and Rib rides are also on offer!   
In the air, over 150 privateers fly in to Cholmondeley over the weekend as well as the Breitling Wingwalkers, Tri Services Aerial Agility Competition and the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team.
Shopping is a must in the extensive Trade village with additional ‘Lifestyle Pavilion’ for those who appreciate the finer things in life
A wonderful offering of food is available for all tastes from a broad range of food retailers chosen especially to cater for eclectic mix of ages and preferences.  If you are in need of drink, then sample what is on offer in the "Pageant" pub which has some of the best locally brewed beers, as well as wines, soft drinks and cocktails. Take time out to relax at the Pageant Bar and enjoy a glass or two of bubbly, sample the canapés, and enjoy a punet of locally grown strawberries and cream.
Children’s entertainment includes a fun fair, Scaletric’s, Mini Motorbike, fully functioning Miniature Grand Prix Circuit, Go Kart rides and Radio Race Cars as well as competitions and other activities.
Whilst for the adults there is a wonderful Pageant of Power incorporating historic cars and racing cars, historic sports and racing motorbikes, classic speed boats and power boats, super cars and concept cars and helicopters.

What is the Cholmondeley Fireworks concert?

The Cholmondeley Fireworks Concert has been a long standing highlight of the Cheshire social Calendar since 1989.  The decision to combine it with the Pageant of Power as the Saturday evening entertainment has proved hugely popular and further fuelled the public’s enthusiasm for this exciting event.
The Concert provides a wonderful conclusion to the Saturday Pageant of Power as well as a fantastic evening of entertainment for those who simply enjoy the exceptional setting, spectacular fireworks and emotive music which all contribute to the ‘Last Night of the Proms’ atmosphere.
Last year’s Military Tattoo theme proved so popular it will be repeated for 2012 and expand on 2011 in which Manchester Camerata Orchestra performed pieces from Ride of the Valkyries (Wagner), John Williams, Aces High March from the Battle of Britain (Goodwin) and The Bridge over the River Kwai (Arnold).  Also performing were Military Marching Bands, Pipers on the Castle Roof and perhaps the highlight – real cannon fire accompanying Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.
We suggest you bring rugs, chairs and a picnic or buy on site, alternatively Hampers can be pre-ordered from the Cholmondeley Farm Shop (01829 720201).   
Enjoy sitting on the Castle Lawn, sing along to all your favourite sea shanty’s including Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory and soak up the electric atmosphere.  
Gates to the Castle Lawns open at 1600 allowing plenty of time to find a good spot from where to watch.  
The Concert begins at 1845 with a military marching band.  The Manchester Camerata Orchestra take to the stage at 2000, the concert ends at approximately 2245.

Where is the Pageant of Power/ Cholmondeley Fireworks Concert/best way to get here?

The Cholmondeley Pageant of Power takes place at Cholmondeley Castle (postcode for Sat Nav is SY14 8AH) (view on map), which is situated on the A49, the main North-South route from Warrington to Shrewsbury.  There are excellent links to the motorway network.
Travelling South on the M6, take the Chester M56 at junction 9 and then A49 South at junction 10.  
Travelling North from Birmingham on the M6, take the M54 to junction 3 and then A41 North to Whitchurch.  

How can I buy a ticket?

Tickets are available on the website or over the phone 01829 772 432.

What different tickets are available?

3 Day Ticket with Concert £80 (Children 4-15yrs £5): Access to the Pageant on Friday, Saturday and Sunday plus the Fireworks Concert on Saturday evening.

Friday’s preview day is access to a ‘behind the scenes’ day ahead of the full action on Saturday & Sunday.  View vehicles undertaking their practice laps, peruse the pits and shop at your leisure.

All ticket holders have access to the Paddock Enclosure.  Enjoy perusing the pits to view the Cars and Bikes competing throughout the weekend and mingle with entrants, mechanics and owners.  View the track from a wide variety of vantage points, access the Powerboats, Trade Village and Lifestyle Pavilion, Pageant Pub, Aviation field,  Army Displays, Food and Drink Festival and much more.

The Park is packed with activities/spectacles to keep all the family entertained.

Saturday Ticket with Concert  £40 - Must be purchased in advance (Children 4-15 yrs): allows access to the Paddock on Saturday, plus the Fireworks Concert on Saturday evening. Paddock ticket holders have additional access into this exclusive area of the Pageant of Power site as well as the wider Park. Take advantage of exclusive access to the pits to view the Cars and Bikes competing throughout the weekend and mingle with entrants, mechanics and owners. Also within the Paddock is the premier view of the start line, exclusive Sponsors trading area, Corporate Hospitality, Paddock Bar and Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar.

Enjoy the Cholmondeley Fireworks Concert & Military Tattoo from the Castle lawns. Gates open 1600 on Saturday 16^th June and at 1830 the concert starts with the Mossley Brass Band and Military Marching Bands. At 2000 Manchester Camerata Orchestra take to the stage in “Last Night of the Proms” style. The concert ends at around 2230 with a spectacular fireworks display.

Pageant Ticket £24: Paddock ticket holders have additional access into this exclusive area of the Pageant of Power site as well as the wider Park. Take advantage of exclusive access to the pits to view the Cars and Bikes competing throughout the weekend and mingle with entrants, mechanics and owners. Also within the Paddock is the premier view of the start line, exclusive Sponsors trading area, Corporate Hospitality, Paddock Bar and Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar.

Preview Day £18: This year we are delighted to offer access to a ‘behind the scenes’ preview day ahead of the full action on Saturday & Sunday. View vehicles undertaking their practice laps and peruse the pits at your leisure. Shop in the tradestands within a totally relaxed atmosphere.

Fireworks Concert £20: Enjoy the Cholmondeley Fireworks Concert & Military Tattoo from the Castle lawns. Gates open 1600 on Saturday 16^th June and at 1830 the concert starts with the Mossley Brass Band and Military Marching Bands. At 2000 Manchester Camerata Orchestra take to the stage in “Last Night of the Proms” style. The concert ends at around 2230 with a spectacular fireworks display.

All prices subject to change March 31st - please click here for more information, all ticket orders are subject to a £2 admin & delivery fee.

Where can I stay?

Walkers Campsite:  the campsite is located within Cholmondeley Castle Grounds and is a short walk from the Pageant of Power site entrance.  It is a grass site and is suitable for Tents, Caravans and Motor Homes, facilities include: Toilets, Chemical disposal point, Mains water, Showers, Waste Bins, Food & Beverage outlets.  

How much is camping?

Tents £20 per night/per Tent
Caravan/Motor Homes £25 per night/per Caravan/Motorhome

Which Gate/Car parks do I need to use

Entrance Gates and Car Parks are marked on the site map.  When accessing the event please follow the signs to the Gate shown on your Car Pass or ticket.  The General Public are directed towards Gate 1.  Click here for site map.

What disabled facilities are there?

Disabled Access is available to within 200 yards of the site for vehicles displaying a registered disabled badge. There will be suitable toilet facilities available. Please note that the site is a rough, mown field, which may create some difficulties for wheelchair users.

What to wear?

The Pageant of Power is a grass site and British weather is unpredictable so it is advisable to bring comfortable/waterproof footwear and warm/waterproof clothing should the need for it arise.

What is the difference between Friday, Saturday and Sunday?

Friday Preview Day; this year we are delighted to offer access to a ‘behind the scenes’ preview day ahead of the full action on Saturday & Sunday. View vehicles undertaking their practice laps and peruse the pits at your leisure. Shop in the tradestands in a totally relaxed atmosphere.

Saturday; both days on the track are similar, the entrants compete in 3 timed runs to achieve either fastest time or best regularity in their class.  On the Mere competition starts with the Thunder Cat National Championships, whilst in the Air the 1st stage of the Tri-Services Aerial Agility competition begins, each discipline continues with a variety of competition throughout the weekend.  The Cholmondeley Fireworks Concert takes place in the evening making a fantastic conclusion to the Saturday Pageant of Power.

Sunday; is again officially timed with each entrant competing in 3 timed runs to achieve either fasted time or best regularity in their class.  The various disciplines competing over the weekend culminate their championships on Sunday with the winners being announced and prize giving taking place on Sunday afternoon.

Do I need a programme?

The Programme contains essential information which will help you to make the most of your time at the Pageant of Power, including a Site Map, Time table of events, Entrants and Classes.  It contains a wealth of information and articles designed to give a insight to the passion and technical expertise behind the vehicles on display and the organisation needed to bring a spectacle like the Pageant of Power together, as well as providing a lovely souvenir of your day.

What else is there to do other than watch the track?

There is a huge variety of things to see and do, Power Boats including Thunder Cats, Formula 1 and 2 will be competing on Deer Park Mere alongside Jet Ski stunt displays.  The Heli Pad is active all weekend with 100’s of privateers flying in, the Tri-Services Aerial Agility Competition and the Breitling Aerobatic display team will be performing on both Saturday & Sunday.  There will be a host of other activities to entertain all the family including Kiddie Quads, Human Table Football, Scalectrix, the fun fair and much much more.

Can I bring my dog?

Sadly dogs/animals are not allowed under any circumstances on to the site, with the exception of registered guide dogs. Dogs must not be left in cars and those arriving on site with a dog will be asked to leave.

Is there a children’s play area?

Yes we do have a play area with swings, wobbly bridge and see saw etc , next to Deer Park Mere as well as the Children’s Activity Area at the event.

Where can I eat?

There are a wide range of food/drink stands located around the site, including the Cholmondeley Tea Room serving fresh Coffee and Cakes all day, the Pageant Pub is located just inside the Trade Area and offers a variety of refreshments including wholesome and hearty food which can be washed down with a pint of real ale, and also the Paddock Bar located within the Paddock.  For more elegant surroundings this year you will have the option to pre-book your table at the 'Avenue Restaurant' where you can rest, relax and revive.  Please click here for full details on our Pageant food & drink options

How can I entertain my clients at the Cholmondeley Pageant of Power?

We have corporate hospitality packages available and are able to cater for private parties as well as those who might like a more tailored experience, please click here for more details

How do I cross the track?

There are various crossing points along the track, manned by BARC Marshals in orange overalls.  These are expected to be opened every 20mins as long as it is safe to do so.
Bailey Bridge is open at all times and is clearly marked on the site map.  Bailey Bridge provides access to the Paddock, Park and Deer Park Mere. It is also possible to access the Paddock around the back of the Cricket Pitch marquees.

Where is lost property?

Lost property will be handed in to the Information Hut located just between The Pageant Pub and Bailey Bridge.

Where can I find information huts points?

Information Huts are clearly marked on the site map.

Where can I buy CPOP merchandise?

Official Cholmondeley Pageant of Power merchandise is only available from the CPOP Merchandise stand situated in the Trade Area or from the CPOP website.

How do I enter a vehicle?

If you would like to enter a vehicle, please download the application form by clicking here, please include a photo and brief blurb about the driver all applicants will go before the Select Committee and need to be submitted by the early 2012.

Can I fly in?

Please email admin@cpop.co.uk  or contact the office on 01829 772 432.  From early 2012 Aviation Packs will be available providing flight coordinates and all the necessary information required to fly in.

What are the Seating arrangements and facilities at the Fireworks Concert?

There is limited seating, so bring a rug, cushion or folding chair. Be prepared for rain, as there is no shelter and the concert will take place rain or shine. Much of the concert takes place in the dark. And while the arena and car parks are lit, we suggest you bring a torch to help you find your way. No barbeques or private caterers are permitted. No areas may be roped or fenced off. Gazebos and other tented structures are strictly prohibited. There are food outlets and bars on site, alternatively you can bring a picnic or pre-order a hamper from the Cholmondeley Farm Shop.