Donington Park
Location:
Leicestershire, UK
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Donington Park
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United Kingdom Round (Donington Park)
World Superbikes
10 - 12 Jul
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Donington Park (GP)
British Touring Car Championship
22 - 23 Aug
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Track Info
Donington Park - Castle Donington, Leicestershire, UK
Historic parkland circuit - clockwise - legendary Craner Curves and Old Hairpin flow into technical late-lap hairpins
When was the track built?
Donington was laid out through the Donington Hall estate in 1931 as Britain’s first permanent park circuit, widening in 1933 for cars. It grew through the 1930s, hosted Grand Prix machinery, then closed for WWII. Tom Wheatcroft revived the venue in the 1970s, and the Melbourne Loop was added in 1985, creating today’s 4.020 km GP layout which brought MotoGP and remains the WorldSBK home in the UK.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was a motorcycle meeting on 25 May 1931. The first car meeting followed on 25 March 1933, with the Donington Park Trophy later that year. Pre-war Donington Grands Prix in 1937 and 1938 featured the Silver Arrows era.
What's the circuit like?
- Craner Curves to Old Hairpin: A fast, downhill left-right-left that rewards commitment and front-end bite. Small mistakes snowball into the Old Hairpin exit speed.
- Mid-lap rhythm: Starkey's Bridge and Schwantz Curve flow into the technical traction test at McLean's and the double-apex Coppice leading onto Starkey's Straight.
- Heavy-brake finales: Fogarty Esses set up dives into the Melbourne Hairpin and the final shot to Goddards and the line.
- Wind and camber: Exposed sections can shift balance lap to lap, while subtle camber changes define the ideal line.
- Benchmark pace: F1 race lap record 1:18.029 (Senna, 1993). Prost’s 1:10.458 qualifying lap stands as the all-time weekend fastest. WorldSBK’s Superpole mark is 1:26.080 (Rea, 2022).
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 - race lap: 1:18.029 - Ayrton Senna, 1993 European GP.
- Auto GP - race lap (official track record holder): 1:17.707 - Kimiya Sato, 2013.
- Group C - race lap: 1:19.380 - Mauro Baldi, Peugeot 905 Evo 1 Bis, 1992.
- WorldSBK - Superpole (motorcycle outright): 1:26.080 - Jonathan Rea, 2022.
- MotoGP - final Donington year reference: Pole 1:28.116 - Valentino Rossi, 2009 - race fastest lap 1:31.554 - Jorge Lorenzo (wet-dry).
Why go?
It’s one of Britain’s great driver’s circuits: sweeping elevation, natural amphitheatre viewing and a packed calendar. From F1’s iconic 1993 race to today’s BTCC, British GT and WorldSBK, Donington consistently produces passes into Melbourne and Goddards after flat-out runs through the classic early sector.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Craner Curves embankments: Pure commitment and line craft as cars or bikes plunge to the Old Hairpin.
- Old Hairpin outside: See who keeps minimum speed to slingshot up the hill.
- Coppice exit: Critical traction zone onto the straight that sets up moves at the Fogarty Esses.
- Melbourne Hairpin and Goddards: Prime overtaking and photo finishes with grandstands close to the action.
Not just F1: headline series at Donington
WorldSBK: Home of the championship’s inaugural round in 1988 and a perennial UK stop - modern bikes reset records here.
BTCC and British GT: Touring cars and GT3 machinery use both GP and National layouts with elbows-out racing into the late-lap hairpins.
MotoGP history: Hosted the British Grand Prix from 1987 to 2009 - the Rossi, Stoner, Lorenzo era memories were made on this 4.020 km ribbon.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Donington Park - Castle Donington, Leicestershire
Best options are the Skylink buses that stop at the circuit’s East Entrance, driving and using the free on-site public parking with disabled parking at Coppice, and rideshare or taxi to the East Entrance stop on the A453. East Midlands Airport sits directly opposite the East Entrance.
Public transport - Skylink buses stop at the gate
- Skylink network: Frequent buses link the circuit with Nottingham, Derby, Leicester and Loughborough, calling at Donington Park East Entrance. The MY15 also serves from Ilkeston via Long Eaton. Check live times on operators’ pages.
- From rail hubs: Use East Midlands Parkway, Derby or Nottingham stations and transfer to Skylink buses. During some large events separate shuttles may run between East Midlands Parkway and the site - always check your event’s travel page.
- From EMA airport: Short local bus ride or taxi to the East Entrance - airport and circuit sit opposite each other on the A453.
Driving and parking - simple if you follow the signs
- Approach roads: From the M1 use J23A - A42 - A453 or J24 - A453 and follow Donington Park signs to event parking.
- Public parking: Free on most race weekends - stewards will direct you to the open car parks.
- Disabled parking: Dedicated area at Coppice - show your Blue Badge and you will be routed accordingly.
- Starkey's Parking: A paid upgrade when offered, placing your car close to the Craner Curves viewing banks. Prebook if available for your event.
Rideshare and taxis
- Set destination: Donington Park East Entrance on the A453. This is the same location as the bus stop and stewarded set down during events.
- Airport transfers: From EMA it is a very short taxi ride to the gates if you are not using the bus.
Walking from stops and car parks
- From East Entrance bus stop: You arrive at the main perimeter - follow event wayfinding into the paddock - grandstand areas.
- From public car parks: Expect 5 - 15 minute signed walks depending on which field is in use - marshals will guide you to the nearest entrance.
Airports and long distance travel
- East Midlands Airport EMA → Donington Park: opposite the circuit - buses and taxis connect in minutes.
- Railway links: East Midlands Parkway, Derby and Nottingham provide mainline access, then transfer by bus or taxi for the last leg.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Skylink - MY15 arrivals: East Entrance stop is at the gate opposite the airport.
- Drivers: follow stewards to the free public car parks - look for Coppice if you need disabled parking, or Starkey's Parking if you prebooked the premium area.
Always follow the lot and gate printed on your e-ticket and check the event’s spectator info page for any temporary traffic plans or parking changes.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Donington Park (Castle Donington - East Midlands, England)
Whether you are here for British GT, BTCC, WorldSBK, Bennetts BSB, Donington Historic Festival, club racing or trackdays, the circuit sits on the Leicestershire and Derbyshire border with family attractions, country parks and lively cities close by for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- East Midlands Aeropark: Small open air museum with classic jets, viewing mounds for plane spotting and occasional cockpit days. Check opening days.
- Conkers - National Forest: Adventure play areas, indoor discovery zones and woodland trails about 25 - 35 minutes away.
- Twycross Zoo: Renowned primate collection and family exhibits roughly 35 - 45 minutes to the south west.
- Bluebell Dairy - Derby: Farm attraction with animals, seasonal events and ice cream parlour. Easy morning for younger kids.
- Great Central Railway - Loughborough: Heritage steam line with special family days and short rides.
- Water sports at Spring Lakes or Holme Pierrepont: Inflatable aqua parks and paddle hire on select dates in season.
Many family venues use timed entry on weekends and school holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Nottingham attractions: Nottingham Castle visitor experience, the National Justice Museum and Nottingham Contemporary make an easy indoor trio.
- Derby Museum & Art Gallery: Joseph Wright galleries plus the Museum of Making at the Silk Mill for hands on engineering history.
- Leicester - National Space Centre: Family favourite with rockets, planetarium shows and interactive zones.
- Melbourne Hall and village: Historic gardens, craft shops and tearooms 10 - 15 minutes from the paddock.
- Calke Abbey - National Trust: Atmospheric country house with parkland walks. Good mix of indoor and outdoor time.
Eat and drink like a local
- Castle Donington: Pubs and bistros on the main street for quick post practice meals and Sunday roasts.
- Melbourne and Ticknall: Cosy cafés, bakeries and country inns that pair well with Calke Abbey and reservoir walks.
- Derby and Nottingham: Independent coffee, modern British kitchens and street food markets for Friday or Saturday nights.
- Leicester: Celebrated curry houses and vibrant city centre dining if you are based to the south.
- Race week tip: Book ahead on headline weekends across Castle Donington, Melbourne and the city centres. Larger groups should reserve early.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Staunton Harold Reservoir: Lakeside paths, small beach areas and sailing club activity. Flat and family friendly.
- Attenborough Nature Reserve: Boardwalks and hides on the Trent with easy loops for all ages.
- National Forest trails: Short woodland circuits around Hicks Lodge and nearby sites for relaxed rides or walks.
- Bradgate Park - Charnwood: Deer park, hilltop Old John tower and rocky outcrops for great views on a breezy morning.
- Trent riverside: Gentle towpath sections and café stops around Beeston and Sawley for a leg stretch after qualifying.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Peak District National Park - 45 to 75 minutes. Bakewell, Chatsworth House and short gritstone walks. Arrive early for parking on sunny weekends.
- Alton Towers - 50 to 70 minutes. Theme park and waterpark option for a full family day. Reserve dated tickets in school holidays.
- National Memorial Arboretum - Alrewas - 30 to 40 minutes. Riverside grounds and thoughtful memorial trails.
- Belvoir Castle and Vale of Belvoir - 60 to 75 minutes. Hilltop castle tours and countryside pubs.
- Sherwood Forest - 60 to 75 minutes. Major Oak, gentle forest paths and a visitor centre that suits mixed ages.
- Trentham Gardens and Monkey Forest - 60 to 80 minutes. Lakeside gardens plus free roaming Barbary macaques on a woodland path.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Many parks and attractions use dated tickets or have last entry cutoffs on peak days.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring through early autumn packs the biggest events including superbikes, touring cars and historics. Nearby hotels and village inns fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Exposed in places with quick showers possible. Pack layers, a light rain shell and sunscreen. Grassy viewing banks can be breezy.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Drive days, trackdays and tours operate on selected dates and usually pause or shift hours during headline events. Check the weekly schedule.
- Ground conditions: Expect long walks and some gradients between corners. A small folding chair or blanket helps on grass banks.
- Nearby airport: East Midlands Airport activity is part of the backdrop. The Aeropark is great for aircraft fans but operates limited days.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, refillable bottles and sturdy shoes for mixed tarmac and grass. Binoculars are handy for Melbourne Loop and Craner Curves viewpoints.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Leicestershire, UK
Track Info
Donington Park - Castle Donington, Leicestershire, UK
Historic parkland circuit - clockwise - legendary Craner Curves and Old Hairpin flow into technical late-lap hairpins
When was the track built?
Donington was laid out through the Donington Hall estate in 1931 as Britain’s first permanent park circuit, widening in 1933 for cars. It grew through the 1930s, hosted Grand Prix machinery, then closed for WWII. Tom Wheatcroft revived the venue in the 1970s, and the Melbourne Loop was added in 1985, creating today’s 4.020 km GP layout which brought MotoGP and remains the WorldSBK home in the UK.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was a motorcycle meeting on 25 May 1931. The first car meeting followed on 25 March 1933, with the Donington Park Trophy later that year. Pre-war Donington Grands Prix in 1937 and 1938 featured the Silver Arrows era.
What's the circuit like?
- Craner Curves to Old Hairpin: A fast, downhill left-right-left that rewards commitment and front-end bite. Small mistakes snowball into the Old Hairpin exit speed.
- Mid-lap rhythm: Starkey's Bridge and Schwantz Curve flow into the technical traction test at McLean's and the double-apex Coppice leading onto Starkey's Straight.
- Heavy-brake finales: Fogarty Esses set up dives into the Melbourne Hairpin and the final shot to Goddards and the line.
- Wind and camber: Exposed sections can shift balance lap to lap, while subtle camber changes define the ideal line.
- Benchmark pace: F1 race lap record 1:18.029 (Senna, 1993). Prost’s 1:10.458 qualifying lap stands as the all-time weekend fastest. WorldSBK’s Superpole mark is 1:26.080 (Rea, 2022).
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 - race lap: 1:18.029 - Ayrton Senna, 1993 European GP.
- Auto GP - race lap (official track record holder): 1:17.707 - Kimiya Sato, 2013.
- Group C - race lap: 1:19.380 - Mauro Baldi, Peugeot 905 Evo 1 Bis, 1992.
- WorldSBK - Superpole (motorcycle outright): 1:26.080 - Jonathan Rea, 2022.
- MotoGP - final Donington year reference: Pole 1:28.116 - Valentino Rossi, 2009 - race fastest lap 1:31.554 - Jorge Lorenzo (wet-dry).
Why go?
It’s one of Britain’s great driver’s circuits: sweeping elevation, natural amphitheatre viewing and a packed calendar. From F1’s iconic 1993 race to today’s BTCC, British GT and WorldSBK, Donington consistently produces passes into Melbourne and Goddards after flat-out runs through the classic early sector.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Craner Curves embankments: Pure commitment and line craft as cars or bikes plunge to the Old Hairpin.
- Old Hairpin outside: See who keeps minimum speed to slingshot up the hill.
- Coppice exit: Critical traction zone onto the straight that sets up moves at the Fogarty Esses.
- Melbourne Hairpin and Goddards: Prime overtaking and photo finishes with grandstands close to the action.
Not just F1: headline series at Donington
WorldSBK: Home of the championship’s inaugural round in 1988 and a perennial UK stop - modern bikes reset records here.
BTCC and British GT: Touring cars and GT3 machinery use both GP and National layouts with elbows-out racing into the late-lap hairpins.
MotoGP history: Hosted the British Grand Prix from 1987 to 2009 - the Rossi, Stoner, Lorenzo era memories were made on this 4.020 km ribbon.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Donington Park - Castle Donington, Leicestershire
Best options are the Skylink buses that stop at the circuit’s East Entrance, driving and using the free on-site public parking with disabled parking at Coppice, and rideshare or taxi to the East Entrance stop on the A453. East Midlands Airport sits directly opposite the East Entrance.
Public transport - Skylink buses stop at the gate
- Skylink network: Frequent buses link the circuit with Nottingham, Derby, Leicester and Loughborough, calling at Donington Park East Entrance. The MY15 also serves from Ilkeston via Long Eaton. Check live times on operators’ pages.
- From rail hubs: Use East Midlands Parkway, Derby or Nottingham stations and transfer to Skylink buses. During some large events separate shuttles may run between East Midlands Parkway and the site - always check your event’s travel page.
- From EMA airport: Short local bus ride or taxi to the East Entrance - airport and circuit sit opposite each other on the A453.
Driving and parking - simple if you follow the signs
- Approach roads: From the M1 use J23A - A42 - A453 or J24 - A453 and follow Donington Park signs to event parking.
- Public parking: Free on most race weekends - stewards will direct you to the open car parks.
- Disabled parking: Dedicated area at Coppice - show your Blue Badge and you will be routed accordingly.
- Starkey's Parking: A paid upgrade when offered, placing your car close to the Craner Curves viewing banks. Prebook if available for your event.
Rideshare and taxis
- Set destination: Donington Park East Entrance on the A453. This is the same location as the bus stop and stewarded set down during events.
- Airport transfers: From EMA it is a very short taxi ride to the gates if you are not using the bus.
Walking from stops and car parks
- From East Entrance bus stop: You arrive at the main perimeter - follow event wayfinding into the paddock - grandstand areas.
- From public car parks: Expect 5 - 15 minute signed walks depending on which field is in use - marshals will guide you to the nearest entrance.
Airports and long distance travel
- East Midlands Airport EMA → Donington Park: opposite the circuit - buses and taxis connect in minutes.
- Railway links: East Midlands Parkway, Derby and Nottingham provide mainline access, then transfer by bus or taxi for the last leg.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Skylink - MY15 arrivals: East Entrance stop is at the gate opposite the airport.
- Drivers: follow stewards to the free public car parks - look for Coppice if you need disabled parking, or Starkey's Parking if you prebooked the premium area.
Always follow the lot and gate printed on your e-ticket and check the event’s spectator info page for any temporary traffic plans or parking changes.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Donington Park (Castle Donington - East Midlands, England)
Whether you are here for British GT, BTCC, WorldSBK, Bennetts BSB, Donington Historic Festival, club racing or trackdays, the circuit sits on the Leicestershire and Derbyshire border with family attractions, country parks and lively cities close by for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- East Midlands Aeropark: Small open air museum with classic jets, viewing mounds for plane spotting and occasional cockpit days. Check opening days.
- Conkers - National Forest: Adventure play areas, indoor discovery zones and woodland trails about 25 - 35 minutes away.
- Twycross Zoo: Renowned primate collection and family exhibits roughly 35 - 45 minutes to the south west.
- Bluebell Dairy - Derby: Farm attraction with animals, seasonal events and ice cream parlour. Easy morning for younger kids.
- Great Central Railway - Loughborough: Heritage steam line with special family days and short rides.
- Water sports at Spring Lakes or Holme Pierrepont: Inflatable aqua parks and paddle hire on select dates in season.
Many family venues use timed entry on weekends and school holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Nottingham attractions: Nottingham Castle visitor experience, the National Justice Museum and Nottingham Contemporary make an easy indoor trio.
- Derby Museum & Art Gallery: Joseph Wright galleries plus the Museum of Making at the Silk Mill for hands on engineering history.
- Leicester - National Space Centre: Family favourite with rockets, planetarium shows and interactive zones.
- Melbourne Hall and village: Historic gardens, craft shops and tearooms 10 - 15 minutes from the paddock.
- Calke Abbey - National Trust: Atmospheric country house with parkland walks. Good mix of indoor and outdoor time.
Eat and drink like a local
- Castle Donington: Pubs and bistros on the main street for quick post practice meals and Sunday roasts.
- Melbourne and Ticknall: Cosy cafés, bakeries and country inns that pair well with Calke Abbey and reservoir walks.
- Derby and Nottingham: Independent coffee, modern British kitchens and street food markets for Friday or Saturday nights.
- Leicester: Celebrated curry houses and vibrant city centre dining if you are based to the south.
- Race week tip: Book ahead on headline weekends across Castle Donington, Melbourne and the city centres. Larger groups should reserve early.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Staunton Harold Reservoir: Lakeside paths, small beach areas and sailing club activity. Flat and family friendly.
- Attenborough Nature Reserve: Boardwalks and hides on the Trent with easy loops for all ages.
- National Forest trails: Short woodland circuits around Hicks Lodge and nearby sites for relaxed rides or walks.
- Bradgate Park - Charnwood: Deer park, hilltop Old John tower and rocky outcrops for great views on a breezy morning.
- Trent riverside: Gentle towpath sections and café stops around Beeston and Sawley for a leg stretch after qualifying.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Peak District National Park - 45 to 75 minutes. Bakewell, Chatsworth House and short gritstone walks. Arrive early for parking on sunny weekends.
- Alton Towers - 50 to 70 minutes. Theme park and waterpark option for a full family day. Reserve dated tickets in school holidays.
- National Memorial Arboretum - Alrewas - 30 to 40 minutes. Riverside grounds and thoughtful memorial trails.
- Belvoir Castle and Vale of Belvoir - 60 to 75 minutes. Hilltop castle tours and countryside pubs.
- Sherwood Forest - 60 to 75 minutes. Major Oak, gentle forest paths and a visitor centre that suits mixed ages.
- Trentham Gardens and Monkey Forest - 60 to 80 minutes. Lakeside gardens plus free roaming Barbary macaques on a woodland path.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Many parks and attractions use dated tickets or have last entry cutoffs on peak days.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring through early autumn packs the biggest events including superbikes, touring cars and historics. Nearby hotels and village inns fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Exposed in places with quick showers possible. Pack layers, a light rain shell and sunscreen. Grassy viewing banks can be breezy.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site experiences: Drive days, trackdays and tours operate on selected dates and usually pause or shift hours during headline events. Check the weekly schedule.
- Ground conditions: Expect long walks and some gradients between corners. A small folding chair or blanket helps on grass banks.
- Nearby airport: East Midlands Airport activity is part of the backdrop. The Aeropark is great for aircraft fans but operates limited days.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, refillable bottles and sturdy shoes for mixed tarmac and grass. Binoculars are handy for Melbourne Loop and Craner Curves viewpoints.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites close to your visit.