Historic plaque unveiled at birthplace of Royal Enfield
Commemorative wall plaques usually mark the homes of legendary musicians or other famous figures. This time, however, the honour goes to a landmark in motorcycle history. A World Origin Site plaque now marks the original British Royal Enfield factory in Redditch.
Royal Enfield unveiled the plaque during its 125th anniversary celebrations at the former Hunt End Works on Enfield Road. TV presenter Richard Hammond joined Redditch Mayor Susan Eacock to host the ceremony.
Royal Enfield staff, fans, and Riders Club members attended the event. Visitors also enjoyed a special display of Royal Enfield motorcycles that celebrated the brand’s 125-year history.
The display featured a modern Project Origin replica of Royal Enfield’s first motorcycle from 1901 alongside a fully restored first-edition 1932 Bullet. Together, the motorcycles highlighted Royal Enfield’s position as the world’s oldest motorcycle brand in continuous production. The display concluded with the 2026 Royal Enfield Classic 650 125th Anniversary Edition, bringing the story up to date.
Richard Hammond said: “My heart lies with two wheels; motorbikes are my private passion, and as a local boy by birth, growing up nearby to this area, it’s a great pleasure to mark this World Origin Site celebrating Royal Enfield; a longstanding, proud brand that rings with familiarity around the world and continues to honour the workers that laid the foundations here in Redditch.”
Martin Wilkie, founder of the World Origin Site project, said: “It’s just a wall in Redditch today, but 125 years ago, somebody did something that changed the world, and we’re here to mark the exact spot.”
