Thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts are set to descend on Calne later this month as one of Europe's biggest free motorcycle events returns to the town.
Taking place on Saturday, 25th July, Calne Bike Meet transforms the town centre into a festival of motorcycles, live music, food, shopping and entertainment. While the bikes are undoubtedly the stars of the show, the event has become much more than a gathering for motorcyclists - it's one of Calne's biggest annual events and attracts families, residents and visitors from across the UK.
Whether you're a lifelong biker or simply fancy soaking up the atmosphere, here's everything you need to know.
Thousands of motorcycles on display
From around 8am, motorcycles will begin arriving in Calne, with the town's streets gradually filling with everything from beautifully restored vintage classics and iconic British bikes to custom builds, Harley-Davidsons, touring motorcycles and the latest high-performance superbikes. Visitors can wander through the town, admire the incredible machines and chat with owners who have travelled from across the country.
Live music on the Howard Marshall Stage
Music plays a huge part in the day, with live performances taking place on the Howard Marshall Stage in Church Street from 10.30am until around 5.30pm.
The stage is named in memory of Howard Marshall (1944–2023), a former Mayor of Calne whose dedication helped secure the future of Bike Meet. Following uncertainty over whether the event could continue, Howard was instrumental in bringing people together to form the current Calne Bike Meet Committee, ensuring the event lived on. As a passionate supporter of both Bike Meet and live music, naming the stage in his honour is a fitting tribute.
This year's line-up includes:
- 10.30am - 11.30am: ThickCut, performing classic rock favourites from bands including Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, Tom Petty and The Rolling Stones.
- 12 noon - 1pm: Echo 44.
- 1.30pm - 2.30pm: Big Wolf Band, the award-winning blues-rock group returning after proving a popular favourite at previous Bike Meets.
- 3.30pm - 4.30pm: The Vooz, bringing the afternoon to a close with a set packed full of classic rock anthems.
Once the main event finishes, the party doesn't stop there, with many of Calne's pubs and venues hosting live music and entertainment well into the evening.
Food from around the world
There will be no shortage of food and drink, with vendors serving everything from traditional burgers and barbecue favourites to Greek, Mexican and German street food, alongside pizzas, sweet treats, coffees, ice creams and refreshments.
Browse more than 70 stalls
Bike Meet isn't just about motorcycles.
More than 70 trade stands, charities and community organisations will be spread throughout the town, selling motorcycle clothing and accessories, gifts, artwork, jewellery and much more.
It's also a great opportunity to discover local businesses, support charities and browse a wide range of unique products.
Don't miss the famous Ride Out
Hundreds of riders will begin gathering at Tesco from around 4.45pm before setting off through Calne at approximately 5pm in one of the day's most spectacular sights.
More than a motorcycle event
While motorcycles remain at the heart of Bike Meet, the event has grown into a celebration of the town itself.
Local cafés, pubs, restaurants and shops enjoy one of their busiest trading days of the year, with visitors helping to create a fantastic atmosphere throughout the town centre.
Even if you've never ridden a motorcycle, there's still plenty to enjoy, from the live music and food to the buzzing atmosphere that fills the town centre throughout the day.
Organised entirely by volunteers
Calne Bike Meet remains free to attend thanks to the dedication of a team of volunteers who work throughout the year to organise the event.
Over the years it has grown into one of Europe's largest free motorcycle gatherings while continuing to raise money for charities and good causes.
Planning your visit
The event runs from 8am until 6pm on Saturday, 25th July, although entertainment at local venues continues into the evening.
With the town expected to be particularly busy throughout the day, anyone travelling by car should allow extra time for their journey and be aware that temporary road closures and parking restrictions will be in place around the town centre.
For the latest maps, entertainment schedules and visitor information, head to the official Calne Bike Meet website.
Whether you're coming to admire the incredible machinery, enjoy the music, browse the stalls or simply experience the atmosphere, Calne Bike Meet 2026 promises another unforgettable day for the town and everyone who visits.
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