Shannonville Motorsport Park
Location
Shannonville, Ontario, Canada
Current Local Time
Track Info
Shannonville Motorsport Park - Ontario, Canada
Historic multi-layout circuit between Toronto and Montreal - known for technical corners, motorcycle racing and its “Birthplace of Champions” reputation
When was the track built?
Motorcycle enthusiast John Nelson acquired the property in 1974 and initially developed a small karting facility. The site was expanded into the 1.8 km Nelson Circuit so that organised motorcycle racing could take place permanently.
A second section called the Fabi Circuit was later constructed and connected to Nelson, creating the present 4.03 km Long Track. Fabi was named in memory of Canadian driver Bertrand Fabi, who died during a Formula 3 test in England.
When was its first race?
The first regional motorcycle meeting was held over the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend in 1976. Full-time regional racing followed in 1977, beginning a long association between Shannonville and Canadian motorcycle competition.
What's the circuit like?
- Technical rather than extremely fast: Frequent corners reward accurate braking and smooth acceleration more than maximum engine power.
- Mostly flat: With few major hills to guide them, competitors must remember their braking points and corner sequences carefully.
- Several configurations: Organisers can select a layout suited to racing, training, testing or beginner track days.
- Plenty of repetition: Shorter laps allow drivers and riders to practise the same corners frequently during a session.
The circuit's clear run-off areas and variety of layouts make it especially useful for learning. It can still punish mistakes because one poor corner exit often affects the following bend.
What layouts are available?
- Long Track: 4.030 km and 14 turns - the complete road course used for major racing and full-day lapping.
- Pro Track: 2.470 km and 9 turns - a compact, demanding configuration popular with motorcycles and club racing.
- Fabi Circuit: 2.230 km and 8 turns - includes the long straight that also supports drag-racing activity.
- Nelson Circuit: 1.800 km and 6 turns - the original road course and the simplest layout for new spectators to follow.
Lap records and benchmarks
- Long Track Superbike: 1:43.824 - Francis Martin, BMW S1000RR, 2010.
- Long Track GT4: 1:48.455 - Orey Fidani, McLaren 570S GT4, 2020.
- Long Track Formula 1600: 1:51.476 - Michael Adams, 2012.
- Pro Track Superbike: 1:04.327 - Jodie Christie, BMW S1000RR, 2014.
- Pro Track Formula 1600: 1:09.455 - Michael Adams, 2016.
Each configuration has a different length and corner sequence. Race, qualifying and track-day times should only be compared when the same layout is being used.
Why is it famous?
Shannonville calls itself the Birthplace of Champions because generations of Canadian competitors have trained and raced here. Formula One World Champion Jacques Villeneuve attended the Spenard-David Racing School at the circuit early in his career.
The venue has also hosted Canadian Superbike, touring cars, Formula 1600, showroom-stock racing, vintage competition and numerous racing schools.
What events are held here?
The modern calendar includes Canadian Superbike, RACE Moto, SMP Cup, vintage car and motorcycle racing, endurance events, driving schools and public lapping.
Drifting, drag racing and mixed activity days also use the skid pad, Nelson Circuit and Fabi straight.
Why go?
The four layouts mean visitors can see many different forms of motorsport at one venue. The compact surroundings also make races easier to understand because competitors return to the main viewing areas frequently.
Most events offer affordable admission, free parking and access to basic camping. Restrooms and showers remain open throughout major event weekends.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Main straight and grandstands: Best for starts, finishes and activity around the pit lane.
- End of the Fabi straight: Watch competitors arrive at high speed before braking for the following corner.
- Nelson section: A useful area for seeing several technical corners during a short period.
- Paddock: When access is permitted, visitors can see the cars, motorcycles and teams between sessions.
Admission, paddock access and available viewing areas vary between race meetings and track days. Camping is normally dry, without water, electricity or sewer connections.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Shannonville Motorsport Park (Ontario)
Shannonville Motorsport Park is in eastern Ontario, just east of Belleville and close to Highway 401. Driving is the easiest way to arrive, but VIA Rail to Belleville plus a taxi is a practical option if you do not have a car.
Driving & parking (easiest way)
- From Toronto: follow Highway 401 east to Exit 556, Shannonville Road. Head south to Old Highway 2, turn east and continue to the circuit entrance.
- From Kingston: follow Highway 401 west to Exit 566, Marysville Road. Head south to Old Highway 2, then travel west towards the circuit.
- Navigation: enter 7047 Old Highway 2, Shannonville, ON K0K 3A0.
- Parking: general spectator parking is free. Follow event signs if separate competitor, paddock or spectator areas are being used.
Tip: Shannonville sits close to Highway 401, so the final rural section is relatively short compared with many Canadian circuits.
Train
- Belleville Station: VIA Rail serves Belleville on the busy Toronto-Ottawa-Montreal corridor.
- Station → circuit: there is no passenger railway station at Shannonville Motorsport Park, so arrange a taxi or pickup for the final journey.
- Race-day travel: pre-booking your return ride is sensible, especially if your event finishes in the evening.
Train plus taxi is the most practical option for visitors who want to avoid driving the full journey from Toronto, Ottawa or Montreal.
Bus & public transport
Belleville has its own local bus network, but it does not provide a simple regular service directly to the circuit.
- To Belleville: use intercity rail or coach services where available.
- Belleville → circuit: a taxi, rideshare or pre-arranged lift is much easier than trying to complete the journey by local bus.
- Do not rely on a race shuttle: unless your event specifically advertises one, assume you need to organise the final journey yourself.
Airport transfers
- Toronto Pearson (YYZ): the most useful major international airport for many visitors travelling from farther away.
- Rental car: the simplest onward option. Several major rental companies operate directly from Pearson's terminals.
- Ottawa Airport: another practical choice, particularly if its flights suit your journey better.
- Kingston Airport: although geographically closer, it currently does not offer normal scheduled passenger flights; Air Canada's Landline bus connection operates there instead.
Spectator information
- General admission: most events charge adults $20 at the gate, while children aged 12 and under are free.
- Parking: general parking is free.
- Some track days: selected lapping and evening events do not charge a spectator fee.
- Major events: admission prices can differ, so check the individual event before travelling.
Camping & facilities
- Camping: free camping is available during events in the circuit's dedicated camping area.
- No hookups: there is no electricity, water or sewer service, so RVs and campers must be self-contained.
- Showers & restrooms: facilities are open 24 hours.
- Campfires: permitted unless a local fire ban is in force; keep fires small and controlled.
- Quiet hours: the circuit has a 10pm noise curfew in the camping area.
Where to stay
- Belleville: the easiest choice for hotels, restaurants, shops and rail connections.
- Camping: ideal if you want to stay at the circuit and are comfortable with basic facilities.
- Busy weekends: book accommodation early when Canadian Superbike or another major meeting is taking place.
Accessibility
- Limited mobility: travelling by car or taxi is generally easier than relying on public transport.
- Before travelling: contact Shannonville Motorsport Park or your event organiser to confirm the best parking, entrance and viewing arrangements for your needs.
Quick guide
- Driving? Use Highway 401 and navigate to 7047 Old Highway 2.
- Coming by train? Travel to Belleville, then take a taxi or arrange a pickup.
- Flying? Toronto Pearson is the main international option; hiring a car is easiest.
Check Shannonville Motorsport Park and your event organiser shortly before travelling, as admission, gate hours and event-specific access arrangements can change.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Shannonville Motorsport Park (Shannonville, Ontario)
Whether you’re here for motorcycle racing, car lapping, drifting or drag racing, Shannonville Motorsport Park puts you beside the Bay of Quinte - with waterfront parks, aviation history, nature trails and Prince Edward County within easy reach.
Family-friendly highlights nearby
- National Air Force Museum of Canada: Head to CFB Trenton to see historic Canadian military aircraft and learn about the people and technology behind the Royal Canadian Air Force.
- H.R. Frink Conservation Area: Explore forest and wetland trails, including an easy boardwalk that gives younger visitors a close look at local wildlife and habitats.
- Zwick's Park: Belleville's waterfront park is an easy place for a walk, picnic or break beside the Bay of Quinte after a noisy day at the circuit.
- Sandbanks Provincial Park: Its huge sandy beaches and shallow water make it one of the region's standout summer family destinations.
Culture hits & rainy-day winners
- National Air Force Museum: A particularly fitting indoor stop for motorsport visitors interested in engineering, aircraft and Canadian aviation history.
- Glanmore National Historic Site: Tour an impressive 19th-century home in Belleville filled with historic interiors, furniture and decorative objects.
- Downtown Belleville: Explore cafés, shops and galleries around the city centre if poor weather rules out beaches and hiking.
Eat & drink after the racing
- Downtown Belleville: The simplest nearby choice for restaurants, cafés and an evening walk without travelling far from the circuit.
- Bay of Quinte waterfront: Look for patios and casual restaurants around Belleville if you want to finish the day beside the water.
- Prince Edward County: Head south for wineries, breweries, farm shops and restaurants surrounded by some of eastern Ontario's best-known food and wine country.
Active outdoors away from the track
- H.R. Frink Conservation Area: Around 10 km of trails cross forests, wetlands and the Moira River landscape, with routes ranging from easy walks to rougher sections.
- Belleville waterfront: Walk or cycle the shoreline trails around Zwick's Park and the Bay of Quinte for an easy morning or evening activity.
Easy day trips if you’re extending your stay
- Prince Edward County: Combine Picton, small towns, local food and wineries with a drive through the county's rural countryside.
- Sandbanks Provincial Park: Spend a full summer day swimming, walking the dunes or paddling before exploring more of Prince Edward County.
- Trenton: Pair the National Air Force Museum with the waterfront and Bay of Quinte for an easy aviation-focused half or full day.
Good to know when visiting Shannonville
- Check which layout is running: Shannonville has four main road-course configurations, so your paddock and viewing experience can vary significantly between events.
- Spectators are welcome at major events: The circuit sells spectator admission at the gate, although pricing and access can vary depending on the meeting.
- Camping is available: Spectators can camp on site during major events, but it is dry camping without water or sewage hookups.
- Prepare for changing weather: Southern Ontario summers can be hot and humid, while rain can arrive quickly. Bring water, sunscreen and lightweight rain protection.
Circuit layouts, spectator access, camping, museum hours and provincial-park facilities can change - check live calendars and booking information before travelling.