Today, Ben is inviting its automotive family to get ready and spread festive cheer by signing up to Christmas Jumper Day and sending Ben Christmas cards, which raise vital funds in support of those struggling or in crisis.

Ben is cranking up festivities this winter by inviting the whole automotive community to get involved in its Christmas Jumper Day on Friday 12 December, or any day that month. Participants simply sign up, wear their most dazzling (or delightfully dreadful) Christmas jumper, round up colleagues and collect a £3 donation per person - the cost of a coffee. It’s the perfect opportunity to get together, have some festive fun and spark change for industry colleagues facing hardship.

For over 35 years, Ben has also been selling its unique, motor-themed Christmas cards, some of which are designed by renowned motoring artist, Richard Wheatland. There is a new automotive design for 2025 to appeal to avid Wheatland collectors and new buyers alike. In addition, Ben’s shop is selling e-cards and Christmas essentials like wrapping paper and tags.

Support Ben this Christmas

• Get involved in Christmas Jumper Day: click here
• Buy Ben’s cards and Christmas essentials: click here

Cost-of-living pressures continue to bite and, this winter, there will be many families worried about keeping the roof over their heads, heat in their homes and putting food on the table. By donning a festive knit on Christmas Jumper Day and sending Ben Christmas cards, you will be spreading festive cheer while giving hope to those struggling in our automotive family. Funds raised will also bring gifts to go under the tree and put smiles on faces this Christmas.

Matt Wigginton, Director of Growth & Development, said: “We can’t wait to start the festivities and we hope our whole automotive family will get involved! Why not turn your office into a festive spectacle for the day; run a competition for the tackiest jumper or ‘most creative knit selfie’; or raffle a Ben bear to raise vital funds. Christmas Jumper Day is such an easy one to get involved in and it helps everyone to get into the festive spirit.

“Also, by sending Ben Christmas cards, you’re raising awareness about Ben, as well as raising funds. Fundraising has never been more important for us - it’s still really tough out there and thousands of people in our automotive family urgently need us. Together, we can make a life-changing, often life-saving, difference to the lives of our automotive family so please get involved today.”

Ben also wants to ensure automotive people know they can turn to Ben if they need support.

The charity is here for automotive industry people this winter so if you work, or have worked, in the automotive industry we urge you to get in touch now if you’re at breaking point via our free and confidential helpline. Don't suffer in silence, contact our helpline: 08081 311 333 or use our webchat at www.ben.org.uk.

When any member of our automotive family is struggling or in crisis, we all rally to support them.

This year ‘Jaguars at Gaydon’ will celebrate 50 years of the Jaguar XJS when it takes place at the British Motor Museum on Sunday 21 September. The event, which is a friendly and informal gathering for Jaguar fans, is not restricted to members of Jaguar clubs, or Jaguar owners. Now in its sixth year, this special show is organised in partnership between the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust (JDHT) and the British Motor Museum.

This year the show is proud to be partnering once again with the Jaguar Drivers Club to host the Champion of Champions Concours. Hundreds of Jaguar and Daimler enthusiasts will have the unique opportunity to witness the ultimate Concours. The cars will arrive on Saturday 20 September, and will be stored in the Collections Centre. Judging will be held on the morning of the event, with the winners announced at 2pm.

For the first time at this event a limited number of visitors can gain access to the Jaguar Land Rover test track at Gaydon for some chaperoned laps (additional fees will apply). Visitors can choose to participate in their own vehicles or as passengers in several very special cars from the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust collection.

Visitors can also see more JDHT exhibits in the Collections Centre, including a few rarely seen variants on display, along with cars within the dedicated Jaguar Zone inside the Main Museum building. 

Tom Caren, Show Manager at the British Motor Museum, stated, “Even if you don't own a Jaguar yourself, this is a great opportunity to check out all the big cats that we will have on display at this friendly and informal gathering! Whether you’re a member of one of the Clubs or not, you’re welcome to come along and help us celebrate this key anniversary of the Jaguar XJS!”

Vehicle display is just £12, which includes entry to display a vehicle and admission for the driver. Show tickets cost £17 per adult, £9 per child, £15 per concession and £46 for a family of 4. All tickets must be pre-booked and include entry to the Museum and the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust Collection.

For more information about the ‘Jaguars at Gaydon’ Show, please call 01926 895300, or visit the website at www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/whats-on/jaguars-at-gaydon

Long-distance motorcycle trips are as much about the stops as they are about the ride itself. The thrill of open roads is heightened when you plan meaningful pauses to enjoy scenic viewpoints, historic landmarks, cultural hotspots, or unique local experiences. Every journey offers opportunities to combine adventure with discovery, making each mile more memorable. For motorcyclists, thinking ahead about where to stop ensures the trip is filled with unforgettable sights and experiences.  

Scenic Viewpoints and Landscapes

One of the top priorities for any long-haul ride is to take in the natural beauty along the route. Mountain passes, coastal roads, and rolling hills provide perfect opportunities to pause and enjoy panoramic views. Stops at famous outlooks, like the North Coast 500 in Scotland or the cliffs along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, allow riders to capture photos, stretch their legs, and simply take in the vistas. Even a quiet country lane can reveal hidden natural beauty, making spontaneous stops just as rewarding as the planned ones.

Iconic Landmarks and Historic Sites

No road trip is complete without visiting landmarks that give a sense of history and culture. Castles, abbeys, and medieval towns in the UK offer fascinating detours for riders. Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, and Wales’ Pembroke Castle are perfect examples where you can take a break from riding, explore the site, and even enjoy a local café or picnic area. Stopping at these landmarks adds depth to the journey, giving riders the chance to learn more about the places they pass through.

Sports Events Along the Route

For sports fans, timing a trip to coincide with a live game can be an unforgettable experience. Stopping at a football match, rugby game, or horse racing event along your route offers a lively and thrilling break from riding. Many riders enjoy getting even more involved by placing a small wager on their favourite teams while at the venue, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Punters in the UK often opt to wager online at bookmakers not on GamStop, because these platforms operate outside of the UK’s tough rules and offer bettors more flexibility and easier access to a wide range of markets. Beyond easy access and variety, these sites often boast lucrative bonus offers that punters can use to stretch their budget. Experiencing a match live while on the road creates memories and stories that last long after the trip ends.

Local Restaurants and Culinary Experiences

Part of the fun of a road trip is sampling local cuisine. Planning stops at restaurants you’ve always wanted to try—or discovering hidden gems along the way—turns mealtime into a highlight of the journey. From seaside fish and chips to countryside pubs offering hearty meals, taking the time to enjoy local flavours enhances the overall experience. Even a brief coffee or snack stop at a charming café can be a memorable part of the ride.

Natural Wonders and National Parks

Long rides are an excellent excuse to explore national parks and protected landscapes. Stopping at waterfalls, lakes, or forested trails gives motorcyclists the chance to reconnect with nature. Parks like Snowdonia, the Lake District, or the Cairngorms not only provide scenic roads but also walking paths, viewpoints, and picnic spots. These natural stops give riders a break from the engine noise and offer a refreshing way to recharge before continuing the journey.

Cultural and Local Experiences

Beyond landmarks and scenery, taking time to engage with the local environment can turn a simple stop into a memorable adventure. Farmers’ markets like Borough Market in London or the Stow-on-the-Wold market in the Cotswolds provide opportunities to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods. Artisan fairs and local craft markets showcase unique creations, while small community events often feature music, performances, or hands-on workshops. Even casual interactions at a roadside café serving a regional speciality, or chatting with a stallholder at a village market, can enrich the journey, offering insight into local traditions and lifestyles that you might miss by sticking solely to the road.

Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Stops

While famous sights are always worth visiting, the real treasures often lie off the beaten path. Secluded beaches, quiet woodland paths, unusual roadside attractions, or small villages can provide unique experiences and unexpected memories. Riders who embrace these hidden gems often discover quieter, more personal moments of adventure, away from crowds and standard tourist stops.

Conclusion

Long-distance motorcycle trips are about more than just riding—they’re about experiencing the world along the way. Stopping at scenic viewpoints, iconic landmarks, national parks, local restaurants, sports events, and hidden gems ensures that each journey is rich with variety and excitement. From catching a live game to tasting local cuisine, each pause adds a memorable layer to the adventure. Thoughtful planning, combined with the freedom to explore spontaneously, transforms every road trip into an unforgettable series of experiences, making both the ride and the stops equally rewarding.

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Man sitting on the motorcycle photo – Free Motorcycle Image on Unsplash

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Long-haul solo motorcycle trips offer riders a unique sense of freedom and adventure, but after a day on the road, evenings provide an important opportunity to relax, recharge, and enjoy yourself. While riding challenges the body and sharpens focus, the downtime that comes once you’ve parked your bike can be just as memorable if approached creatively. Solo motorcyclists can turn evenings into moments of entertainment, exploration, and connection, whether staying in a cosy inn, a rented apartment, or a local hostel.  

Relaxing with Audio Entertainment

After hours of riding, unwinding with audio entertainment is a simple yet satisfying option. Podcasts and audiobooks allow riders to engage their mind while relaxing comfortably in their accommodation. Travel-themed podcasts or motorcycling shows can extend the day’s adventure, while fiction audiobooks or immersive storytelling offer a mental escape. Music is another great companion, with curated playlists or streaming services setting the tone for relaxation. Whether it’s calming tracks to unwind or upbeat songs to relive the excitement of the ride, a good soundtrack enhances the evening atmosphere.

Streaming and Digital Entertainment

When seeking low-key but engaging entertainment, streaming movies, TV shows, or online series is an ideal option. Many solo motorcyclists use evenings to catch up on favourite series or explore new content, whether in the comfort of a hotel room or a rented apartment. Mobile devices and tablets make it possible to watch while lounging in bed, on a balcony, or in a communal lounge area.
Casual video games, puzzle apps, or even online casino games like poker, blackjack, or slots can also provide interactive fun during downtime, combining engagement with relaxation. Online casinos, in particular, have become extremely popular in recent years and now offer immersive experiences, which is seeing more bettors choose to wager online instead of making a trip to a physical venue. In the UK, bettors often seek out international online casinos so that they can take advantage of the benefits that these sites, which operate outside of the UK’s rules like GamStop, offer. When playing on non GamStop casino sites, UK gamers usually have access to large game libraries and unique bonus offers which attract players. Between online casino games, video games, casual games, movies, and shows, solo motorcycle riders can stay entertained on the road for hours each evening.

Exploring Local Cuisine

Evenings provide the perfect opportunity to connect with the local area through food. Solo travellers can try nearby restaurants, street food vendors, or hidden cafes to experience regional flavours. Sampling local dishes not only satisfies hunger but also gives insight into the destination’s culture. For those staying in self-catering accommodation, visiting markets and picking up fresh ingredients to cook a meal can be both entertaining and rewarding. Cooking your own dinner also provides a break from the routine of roadside stops and offers a chance to unwind after a physically demanding day.

Journaling and Travel Documentation

Evenings are ideal for reflecting on the day’s journey. Keeping a travel journal or photo diary helps document routes, memorable stops, and scenic views. For those who enjoy photography, editing pictures or creating short video clips can be both creative and absorbing. Sharing experiences on social media or travel blogs allows solo riders to connect with other enthusiasts and inspire future trips. Journaling also provides a structured way to remember key moments, making your motorcycle adventure even more meaningful.

Light Exercise and Relaxation

After long hours on the bike, light exercise and stretching can be both restorative and entertaining. Simple stretches, yoga, or a short walk around town help ease stiffness while keeping the body active. Some travellers enjoy exploring local parks, promenades, or waterfront areas in the evening, combining physical activity with sightseeing. This approach enhances relaxation, keeps energy levels high, and provides opportunities to see a destination from a different perspective than during the ride.

Planning and Preparing for the Next Day

Evening entertainment can also include preparing for the next day’s ride. Studying maps, plotting scenic routes, or researching interesting stops ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey ahead. Some riders enjoy incorporating mini-challenges into their planning, such as visiting a specific landmark or completing a route with multiple scenic detours. This makes evenings productive yet entertaining, blending anticipation with strategy.

Connecting with Fellow Riders

Even when travelling solo, evenings offer a chance to meet like-minded individuals. Many motorcyclists gather in local accommodations, biker-friendly hostels, or community spaces to swap stories and experiences. Joining a group for a meal, a short ride, or a social evening can provide camaraderie while respecting the independence of a solo trip. Sharing tips on routes, gear, or local attractions often leads to engaging discussions and even new friendships.

Conclusion

Solo motorcycle journeys are about freedom and exploration, but evenings can transform long rides into a richer, more enjoyable experience. From listening to podcasts and audiobooks to sampling local cuisine, attending sports events, or streaming shows, solo riders have countless ways to entertain themselves after a day on the road. Incorporating travel documentation, light exercise, and social interaction adds depth and enjoyment to the experience. With a mix of planning, creativity, and openness to new experiences, solo motorcyclists can ensure that every evening on the road is as engaging and memorable as the ride itself.

Image - Man on black cruiser motorcycle in highway photo – Image on Unsplash

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