Mile of MINIs | Bowker Preston MINI

Lots of MINIs with different colours and models, parked in a parking lot

MILE OF MINIS 2026:
FEELING GOOD. DOING GOOD.

For years, the Mile of MINIs event has shown what makes the MINI community so special. More than just a convoy, it’s people coming together to support meaningful causes, celebrate MINI heritage and create unforgettable memories along the way.

22 May 2026

And this year, on April 26th, our MINI community came together once again for another unforgettable Mile of MINI travelling from Plant Oxford to MINI UK HQ in Farnborough via scenic Oxfordshire roads, organised by fundraising group The Italian Job.

Different models of MINI in a convoy with a modern building in the background with a BMW sigil on top

A CONVOY PACKED WITH CHARACTER.

Drivers gathered among generations of MINI models for a morning full of stories, snapshots and shared MINI moments. Alongside the familiar mix of classic favourites and modern icons, guests were treated to a closer look at some standout members of the MINI family, including The MINI XXL — an extraordinary 6.3-metre-long, six-wheeled creation complete with its own hot tub, capturing MINI’s playful and unconventional DNA.

Adding to the iconic line-up was the appearance of the one millionth BMW Group-era MINI, first built at Plant Oxford back in 2007. Proudly displayed among the convoy, it served as a reminder of just how far the MINI story has travelled, and the passionate community still driving it forward today.

MILES THAT MEAN MORE.

Roadbooks ready and engines fired up, drivers headed out along a bespoke scenic route through winding B-roads, charming villages and beautiful surroundings. Stretching through the Oxfordshire countryside in a colourful convoy of iconic models, every mile driven helped support an incredible cause close to the MINI family's heart.

This year’s fundraising rally supported Stop Breathe Think, a charity helping children and young people across the UK access fast mental health support when they need it most. Thanks to the generosity of everyone involved, this year’s event raised an incredible £10,000, enough to fund around 300 counselling sessions for young people facing mental health challenges.

Elderly man with chessboard pattern flag calling the end of race

ENDING THE DAY THE MINI WAY.

Two hours on the road and waiting at the finish line at MINI UK’s HQ in Farnborough was a true MINI moment. Drivers were welcomed by Mike Cooper OBE, who greeted participants with John Cooper’s original chequered flag – not used since the 90s. What a legend! The celebrations continued inside the MINI showroom with refreshments, the sharing of stories, plus ice creams in the sun. The perfect way for MINI fans to reflect on another brilliant day together.

NEWS

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FIND Bowker Preston.

Address

Channel Way, On the Docks, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 2YA

Opening Hours

Mon–Fri:08:30 - 18:00
Sat:09:00 - 17:00
Sun:CLOSED

Phone

01772 761234

Map

Areas served

Preston as well as surrounding areas including Lancaster, Leyland, Bamber Bridge and Garstang

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