Detour Pit Stop #108: The Dunsfold Collection, UK
The world’s only dedicated land rover museum owes its existence to an act of love.
Back in 1953 Brian Bashall was told by his girlfriend’s dad that he couldn’t take her out on his Vincent motorcycle. Needing four wheels in a flash he pondered between a Jowett Bradford van, a Ford Prefect and a Land Rover.
Choosing the Landy not only helped his love life, but it inspired a passion for the British 4x4. He began collecting the iconic off-roaders and, in 1968 founded the Dunsfold Collection.
There are now over 130 vehicles in the collection, of which around 40 are on display at any time at the Surrey venue. There are also some 2,000 models and toys gathered by enthusiast Tom Parker plus a vast array of brochures, handbooks and other memorabilia.
The collection, which is now looked after by Bashall’s son Philip, is open to the public on selected days throughout the year so check the website before you pay a visit.