NEW EXHIBIT: Donald Campbell’s AC Aceca "Bluebird"

Following the return of Donald Campbell’s Bluebird K7 to Cumbria last summer, ‘Campbell Fever’ shows no sign of abating as this July marks the 70th Anniversary of his 1955 First World Water Speed Record on Ullswater.

To mark the occasion, and with our long history of showcasing Bluebird memorabilia, we're thrilled to welcome the addition of Campbell’s AC Aceca "Bluebird" to our collection.

A photograph of AC Aceca Bluebird from the rear

On loan from private owner Kevin Shilling, this historic vehicle will be on display exclusively at the museum in July and August (with the exception of 21 – 26 July when it takes part in Anniversary events elsewhere in the county).

The AC Aceca "Bluebird" was owned and used by Donald Campbell between 1954 and 1956. As the initial prototype, it is a unique AC Aceca and one of only 228 coupes built by the British AC Cars Company. Campbell was loaned the car as part of a marketing strategy at the height of his fame.

A photograph of AC Aceca Bluebird from the front

In typical Campbell style the car was specially painted in his distinctive "Bluebird Blue" colour – forever linking it to his famous record-breaking boats and cars all of which adorned the same colour.

Originally fitted with an AC engine, Campbell’s "Bluebird" Aceca was later fitted with a Bristol 100B engine, an adaptation that was to become standard for future Aceca models.

The AC Aceca in its original state when found as a farmyard wreck

After Campbell returned the vehicle to the manufacturers it exchanged hands multiple times before being left to become a derelict "farmyard wreck" in the 1960s.

However, it was later saved by a series of enthusiasts and has undergone extensive restorations, including a four-year project by current owner, Kevin Shilling who in 2015 set out to return the vehicle to its former glory.

Kevin Shilling who restored the vehicle standing next to the car

📷: Kevin Shilling standing next to the restored AC Aceca

Mr Shilling’s love for the vehicle has seen it become the subject of his book ‘Reckless!’ and the car appears at various events across the country.

On loaning it to the Lakeland Motor Museum in time for the latest Campbell Anniversary, Mr Shilling said: “I am one of a long line of owners of the vehicle since Donald Campbell and it was my ambition to restore it and show just what the vehicle is still capable of. Having raced it at the likes of Goodwood, I now enjoy showcasing this beautiful car for others to see.

I’ve always wanted to return the car to Cumbria. Now, I’m so excited for it to become part of a wider Donald Campbell and Bluebird exhibition at the Lakeland Motor Museum in a county that is very rightfully proud of the Bluebird heritage.”

📷: The restored AC Aceca arriving at the museum

Chris Lowe, Lakeland Motor Museum Curator, said: “Donald Campbell and Bluebird is part of the fabric of our exhibits here at the museum so to have, even for a short time, another piece of his motoring history is exciting. I’m certain it will be popular with our visitors.”

This new exhibit follows a £10K refurbishment to the museum’s Bluebird Exhibition earlier this year.

Get up close with the AC Aceca

👁️ Where to see this car: The car will be housed inside our Campbell Bluebird Exhibition Hall - entrance is free with any museum ticket
🗓️ When to see this car: The car will be on display all July and August 2025 (with the exception of 21 – 26 July when it takes part in Anniversary events elsewhere in the county).