The low-key charm of the 356 Spring Drive starts with the morning meet-up at Honeydale Farm Tea Rooms. Breakfast banter mingles with the intoxicating aroma of fresh coffee and that unmistakable whiff of anticipation. Route maps are unveiled, and their tulip notes reveal a promising day of weaving through the garden of England.
With a glorious breakfast consumed and everyone caught up on winter happenings, it was time to head out. The rumble of ten Porsche engines fire into life, pistons collectively yearning to devour the winding B-roads that snake their way towards our mid-morning coffee stop.
Lady Luck smiled upon me this year, with Simon offering the coveted navigator’s seat in his lusciously red 1958 356 coupe. I’ve known Simon and his 356 for years and had a not-so-secret crush on this car. However, this is the first time I’ve ridden in it, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s a testament to his love and care for this 356, a classic that effortlessly juggles international adventures, hill climb glory, and even the weekly shopping run. It’s a car that ‘just looks right’, oozing character from every curve and detail. Still sporting its original six-volt electrics and drum brakes, this isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a mechanical time capsule brimming with personality.
Spring had well and truly sprung, casting a golden light on our path as we weaved out through West Kingsdown and into the heart of the Kentish countryside. Midweek magic blessed us with quiet roads for a gloriously free-flowing drive. The B-roads themselves, while perhaps a little worse for wear, offered a delightful challenge with their ever-changing tapestry of twists, turns, and elevation changes – a true test for both driver and navigator. This was my second foray into navigating with tulip directions. Still, Richards’ meticulous planning and clear instructions made the task surprisingly smooth. My biggest hurdle? Simon’s valiant but currently non-functional odometer. Despite this minor setback, we made excellent time, arriving swiftly at our first pitstop – Paragon, the Porsche specialists nestled in the charming village of Five Ashes.
Paragon perfection
Paragon, the Porsche haven nestled in Five Ashes, greeted us with open arms and a prime parking spot on their pristine forecourt. Inside, the ever-so-welcoming team had laid out a mid-morning feast – steaming coffee and flaky pastries amidst a glittering display of Porsche perfection. While a new addition to my garage wasn’t on the cards that day, the ’96 ex-Le Mans 911 GT2 R (993), one of 78 built, really caught my eye. This racing titan was almost a bargain, sat next to the silver Carrera GT sitting beside it. Both are very desirable cars for any Porsche collector.
Thank you to Mark and the Paragon crew for their legendary hospitality; they truly know how to host a petrolhead pitstop.
Stage Two: A Dash Through the Downpour
While we enjoyed the hospitality at Paragon, the rain started to fall, but this didn’t dampen our spirits. The promise of a splendid lunch at the Blackboys Inn was enough to encourage us back to our cars. The sight and sound were pure automotive poetry as all the glorious 356s roared out of Paragon together. Sure, the heavens had opened, but a grin was plastered across my face—I’d rather be battling the elements in a 356 than sitting at my desk.
While Simon navigated the pothole-riddled roads with the finesse of a seasoned rally driver, our conversation flowed freely, perhaps a little too freely. A missed turn later, and it became clear we’d gotten engrossed in our chat and a touch too reliant on following the pack. “Adventures begin when you get lost,” they say, right? A quick U-turn and a sheepish grin exchanged, and we were back on track a mile or so later.
Lunchtime Camaraderie at the Blackboys Inn
The Blackboys Inn welcomed us with a private section of the car park, country charm and friendly staff. Lunch was a feast for both body and soul, a chance to swap stories, relive the morning’s triumphs (and maybe a minor navigational mishap!), and revel in the camaraderie that only a shared passion for classic Porsche can create. The entire day was, without a doubt, a roaring success.
A Heartfelt Thank You
If you ever find yourself in the picturesque neck of the woods near the Blackboys Inn, a pitstop for lunch is a must. A huge thank you goes out to Richard for meticulously crafting yet another unforgettable adventure, Simon for trusting me with the pre-lunch navigation (minor detour aside), and everyone who made this Wednesday a day to remember. There’s no better way to spend a day than cruising the countryside with a band of passionate Porsche 356 enthusiasts.
2 Responses
Superb write up, Dereck! You’ve captured the day perfectly. For me, it’s up there as one of the best days of the year.
Smashing set of photos Derek, thank you so much. See you soon
Rich