A recent survey of UK motorists has suggested that BMW owners drive us round the bend the most. But, the dreaded ‘Sunday driver’ continues to rev-up the worst reputation on Britain’s roads. In no hurry whatsoever, these weekend pleasure seekers enjoy a gentler pace of life every sunny seventh day.

However, for one Sabbath only, the rural peace and quiet of the Stonor Valley, near Henley, was broken by the roar of a convoy of very special vehicles. And, thankfully, there wasn’t an executive at the wheel of a 5-Series BMW in sight on South Oxfordshire’s B-roads. Following a sun-kissed cruise through the classic English countryside, these dream machines parked on the pristine lawn in the shade of the rolling Chiltern Hills.

Home to the Stonor family for over 850 years, Grade I-listed Stonor Park is one of the oldest family homes still lived in today, but it’s no museum and this month’s inaugural Supercar Sunday was the beginning of a whole new chapter in its history.

With everything from pioneering race cars to collectable classics and the latest high-performance hypercars, this is a very elite club indeed, though, one that’s willing to let petrolheads of all ages enjoy their pride and joy. The spectacular line-up included the only surviving 1917 Stutz Bearcat Roadster Model R, an ‘80s Maserati Merak SS, the iconic McLaren F1 and a sea of Lamborghinis as far as the eye could see across Lord Camoys’ lush parkland.

“Car owners are always on the lookout for a special destination to drive to on a Sunday,” says William Stonor, the 29th successive custodian of Stonor Park. “And there can’t be a more dramatic spot for such an eye-wateringly exotic display than our sweeping front lawn.

“My grandfather purchased the first of only ten exceptionally rare Squire Motor cars in 1935 as well as one of the first Jaguar E-types off the production line, so there’s definitely a lot of motoring history here. The beauty of a car show like this is that it appeals to children of all ages!”

Of all the big boys’ toys to ogle, the one I (and William) would most like to take for a spin is the 1961 Ferrari 250 SWB. This 3.0 litre V12 Italian stallion is a four-wheeled work of art with a price tag to match a masterpiece. If one does happen to go under the hammer, don’t expect much change out of £10m. Definitely one for the big lottery win, but one can dream and enjoy a glass of Pol Roger in the meantime.

  • On June 10, William opens the gates to the Bentley Drivers Club for their annual Concours & Summer Rally. Tickets (£38 for a family of two adults and two children) allow visitors to see the cars on display as well as the treasures inside Stonor House, the 13th century private chapel, Italianate pleasure gardens and adventure playground.
  • Go to stonor.com