‘Clubbable Sisters’: a history of women’s motoring societies

There was a time when there were no driving schools to teach anyone to drive, no garages to get a car repaired and no associations devoted to motorists’ interests, whether male or female.

Engineering historian, Dr Nina Baker, will talk about women’s very active involvement in the early days of motoring (not least in Scotland, including the first female car designer in the UK) and the societies which they set up for themselves both in this country and abroad. Clubs which did not admit women will be ‘named and shamed’ and the few which did will get honourable mentions. It will become clear when, where and why some clubs were very aristocratic and others not so much. Dr Baker will conclude with a swift round up of some of the women’s motoring clubs active today.

By happy coincidence, 2026 is the Centenary Year of the official opening of the extended and restyled clubhouse of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, architect James Miller. The most luxurious clubhouse in Scotland, with membership open to ladies and gentlemen.

Presented in the Kimpton hotel’s Monte Carlo Room facing Blythswood Square gardens.

Refreshments available at the historic Rally Bar adjacent. With full cabinet displays of RSAC, motoring memorabilia, and car rallying photographs.

Part of Glasgow Blythswood Festival 2026 1st May to 17th May. https://glasgowblythswoodfestival.co.uk/

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