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The Smallest Cog

The Smallest Cog is Richard Hammond’s classic car restoration business based in Hereford. Built around traditional craft, modern techniques and a genuine love of old cars, the workshop restores, preserves and protects classics of every shape, size and story. From bodywork and paint to mechanical work and full restorations, The Smallest Cog celebrates the cars people care about and the stories behind them.

At CarFest, The Smallest Cog team will be taking on a very special live restoration project: bringing Richard Hammond’s 508 pickup truck back to life. After sitting dormant and untouched for the past 15 years, the team will work throughout the event to restore the truck and attempt to get it running once again.

Visitors will be able to watch the restoration unfold, meet the team and see first hand what goes into reviving a vehicle that hasn’t turned a wheel in over a decade. It’s going to be a real challenge, with plenty of surprises along the way, but the ultimate goal is to hear the engine fire into life for the first time in 15 years hopefully before the end of CarFest!

A selection of cars loving restored by The Smallest Cog will also be on display, so wander over, take in the finished article, and watch the next one take shape in front of you.

And when you've had your fill of classic metal, treat yourself to a taste of Hammond's Spirits. Richard's premium range will be available to sample on site and buy to take home.

FOR RENOVATION

CARS ON DISPLAY

1971 Buick Riviera "Boattail"

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One of the most outrageous cars in Richard Hammond's collection, this 1971 Buick Riviera is impossible to miss. With its iconic 'Boattail' rear end, vast proportions and thunderous 7.5-litre V8, it's one of the boldest American cars ever built. Fans of The Grand Tour will recognise it from the Scotland special, where Richard transformed it into an even wilder machine. Lovingly rebuilt at The Smallest Cog, it remains one of the stars of Richard's collection and is guaranteed to stop visitors in their tracks.

1962 Opel Kadett – Oliver

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Affectionately known as Oliver, this little Opel Kadett has become one of the most loved cars in Richard Hammond's collection thanks to its unforgettable adventures on The Grand Tour. More than just a classic car, Oliver represents resilience, humour and the spirit of adventure, proving that the smallest cars often create the biggest memories.

1968 Ford Mustang GT Bullitt

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An icon of American performance, Richard's Bullitt celebrates one of the most famous Mustangs ever built. Inspired by the legendary film car, its unmistakable V8 soundtrack, Highland Green paintwork and timeless styling continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

1962 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Roadster

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Finished in stunning Opalescent Light Blue, Richard Hammond's 1962 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever created. Its elegant lines, long bonnet and pioneering performance made it an instant legend, and today it remains one of the jewels of Richard's personal collection.

TAKING TO THE STAGE

1971 Buick Riviera "Boattail"

X

One of the most outrageous cars in Richard Hammond's collection, this 1971 Buick Riviera is impossible to miss. With its iconic 'Boattail' rear end, vast proportions and thunderous 7.5-litre V8, it's one of the boldest American cars ever built. Fans of The Grand Tour will recognise it from the Scotland special, where Richard transformed it into an even wilder machine. Lovingly rebuilt at The Smallest Cog, it remains one of the stars of Richard's collection and is guaranteed to stop visitors in their tracks.

1962 Opel Kadett – Oliver

X

Affectionately known as Oliver, this little Opel Kadett has become one of the most loved cars in Richard Hammond's collection thanks to its unforgettable adventures on The Grand Tour. More than just a classic car, Oliver represents resilience, humour and the spirit of adventure, proving that the smallest cars often create the biggest memories.

1968 Ford Mustang GT Bullitt

X

An icon of American performance, Richard's Bullitt celebrates one of the most famous Mustangs ever built. Inspired by the legendary film car, its unmistakable V8 soundtrack, Highland Green paintwork and timeless styling continue to captivate enthusiasts around the world.

1962 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Roadster

X

Finished in stunning Opalescent Light Blue, Richard Hammond's 1962 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever created. Its elegant lines, long bonnet and pioneering performance made it an instant legend, and today it remains one of the jewels of Richard's personal collection.

HAMMOND’S SPIRITS

RATIO GIN

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Hammond’s Ratio London Dry Gin is a Lake District-inspired gin created with Hawkridge Distillers. Richard selected botanicals including bilberries, wild gorse flowers, young nettles and local honey to create a balanced London Dry with a distinctive countryside character.

IRON RIDGE WHISKY

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Hammond’s Iron Ridge English Single Malt Whisky is a crafted English whisky inspired by the ridge near Richard’s Lake District home. Iron Ridge has been recognised at the World Whiskies Awards 2026, including Best English Single Malt Whisky and Gold Medal recognition.

BEARING RUM

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Hammond’s Bearing Caribbean Spiced Rum is a rich, rounded spiced rum built around Richard’s love of travel and discovery. Made with five-year-aged Caribbean rum and selected spices, it is designed to be enjoyed neat, over ice or with a premium mixer.

TAKING TO THE STAGE

RATIO GIN

X

Hammond’s Ratio London Dry Gin is a Lake District-inspired gin created with Hawkridge Distillers. Richard selected botanicals including bilberries, wild gorse flowers, young nettles and local honey to create a balanced London Dry with a distinctive countryside character.

IRON RIDGE WHISKY

X

Hammond’s Iron Ridge English Single Malt Whisky is a crafted English whisky inspired by the ridge near Richard’s Lake District home. Iron Ridge has been recognised at the World Whiskies Awards 2026, including Best English Single Malt Whisky and Gold Medal recognition.

BEARING RUM

X

Hammond’s Bearing Caribbean Spiced Rum is a rich, rounded spiced rum built around Richard’s love of travel and discovery. Made with five-year-aged Caribbean rum and selected spices, it is designed to be enjoyed neat, over ice or with a premium mixer.

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