‘Gang Warily’: the Royal Scottish Automobile Club’s Unique Place in History

Engineering historian, Dr Nina Baker, will bring us stories from the foundation of Scotland’s premier club for motorists, to its work in two world wars and beyond. The beautiful building occupying the eastern side of Blythswood Square, now the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel, was the scene for many remarkable episodes in British motoring history, of which perhaps its location as the UK’s starting point for the Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo is the best known. Although the club motto of ‘Gang warily’ was good advice given the state of Scotland’s roads in much of the club’s existence, the club itself made plenty of adventurous advances, not without risks attached. We will hear of the club’s women members and the uniquely supportive role that the RSAC played in their support.

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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