Silverstone Circuit
Location:
Silverstone, Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Silverstone Circuit
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British Grand Prix
Formula 1 Academy
3 - 5 Jul
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British Grand Prix
Formula 2
3 - 5 Jul
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British Grand Prix
Formula 3
3 - 5 Jul
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British Grand Prix
Formula 1
3 - 5 Jul
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British Grand Prix
Moto-3
7 - 9 Aug
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British Grand Prix
Moto-2
7 - 9 Aug
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British Grand Prix
MotoGP
7 - 9 Aug
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4 Hours of Silverstone
European Le Mans Series
11 - 13 Sep
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Silverstone (National)
British Touring Car Championship
26 - 27 Sep
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Track Info
Silverstone Circuit - Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
Permanent road course on a former RAF airfield - clockwise - current GP layout introduced 2010 and used since 2011
When was the track built?
Post-war Britain turned disused airfields into race circuits, and Silverstone is the most famous of them. The perimeter roads of RAF Silverstone were first used for club racing in 1947, then formally for the RAC International Grand Prix in 1948. In 1950, Silverstone staged the first World Championship Formula 1 race, attended by King George VI. Through multiple redesigns, the venue has kept its airfield DNA while adding modern safety and facilities.
The current Grand Prix configuration debuted for 2010 with the Arena loop and a new pit complex on the Hamilton Straight from 2011, lengthening the lap and reshaping sectors without losing the track’s trademark speed.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was the 1948 RAC International Grand Prix on 2 October 1948, won by Luigi Villoresi in a Maserati. Silverstone later hosted the inaugural World Championship British Grand Prix in 1950.
What's the circuit like?
- Fast and flowing: Copse is taken at stunning speed, then comes the signature Maggotts-Becketts-Chapel change of direction that compresses the field and punishes any imbalance.
- Wind and grip: As a flat ex-airfield, Silverstone is exposed to gusts that can swing balance corner to corner. Cooler UK temps often mean durable tyre life but tricky warm-up.
- DRS and overtakes: Two DRS zones - Wellington Straight into Brooklands and the Hangar Straight into Stowe - are prime passing spots, with additional action into Village and The Loop on restarts.
- Corner names with stories: Abbey and Luffield reference a medieval abbey, Maggotts is named for Maggot Moor, and Becketts for St Thomas à Becket. The Hangar Straight recalls the airfield hangars.
Benchmark pace: Hamilton’s 2020 pole 1:24.303 remains a modern reference for one-lap speed, while Verstappen’s 1:27.097 is the official race lap record.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:27.097 - Max Verstappen, 2020 British GP (current 5.891 km layout).
- FIA WEC (LMP1 reference): 1:37.289 - Toyota TS050 Hybrid, 2019 4 Hours of Silverstone.
- FIA Formula 2: 1:39.993 - Jack Aitken, 2019 F2 round (Grand Prix layout).
- FIA Formula 3: 1:45.692 - Logan Sargeant, 2019 F3 round.
- MotoGP (recent benchmarks): All-time lap record 1:57.3 range in practice and a 1:58.895 best race lap in 2024 on the 5.9 km bike layout. Bikes use their own timing history separate from F1.
Why go?
Silverstone is the spiritual home of British motorsport - a festival atmosphere with huge grandstands, camping villages, live music and trackside fan zones. Expect sell-out crowds for F1, a packed support bill, and sightlines that let you watch cars change direction at world-beating speeds. It is one of the best places on earth to feel what modern downforce looks like in the flesh.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Becketts Complex: Panoramic view of Maggotts-Becketts-Chapel - watch drivers thread the needle at high speed and see pace differences amplified.
- Stowe: Huge braking from the Hangar Straight DRS zone - classic divebombs and outside swoops.
- Brooklands-Luffield-Woodcote: Great for overtakes from the Wellington Straight and long views as cars fight traction onto the National Pits Straight.
- Club and Hamilton Straight: Final-corner drama, podium views and start-finish action with the modern pit complex as a backdrop.
Not just F1: UK and world series at Silverstone
MotoGP British Grand Prix: Premier motorcycle racing returns each summer on a bike-specific 5.9 km layout - breathtaking elbow-down speeds through Maggotts and Becketts.
FIA World Endurance Championship: Silverstone has hosted rounds for LMP and GT machinery, with hybrid prototypes setting eye-opening averages through the fast stuff.
FIA Formula 2 and Formula 3: Top junior single-seater categories share the F1 weekend, showcasing future stars in slipstream battles on Wellington and Hangar.
BTCC and British GT: Britain’s marquee touring cars and national GTs race on Silverstone’s various layouts across the season, delivering dense packs and photo-finish sprints.
Porsche Supercup and Carrera Cup GB: One-make GT action often features on Grand Prix and national bills with deep grids and relentless midfield fights.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Silverstone Circuit (British Grand Prix)
Best options are train + official shuttle or Park & Ride. On F1 weekend there is no general public drop-off at the circuit; plan ahead and pre-book travel/parking.
Trains & official shuttles (easiest way)
- From London: Euston → Milton Keynes Central (fast services often < 40–50 min) or Euston → Northampton. Marylebone → Banbury is another good option.
- Station shuttles: Return buses run between the listed stations and Silverstone on all event days. Book shuttle tickets in advance (they are separate from your rail fare).
- Journey times (typical): MKC ~50 min • Northampton ~40 min • Banbury ~50 min by shuttle, subject to traffic.
- Where you’re dropped: Shuttles set down a short walk from the public gates with stewards and signage directing you in.
Tip: Aim to arrive at the rail station early on Sunday to avoid peak queues for the morning shuttles.
Park & Ride (stress-free driving)
Leave your car at a designated hub off the motorway network and ride the dedicated bus to the circuit.
- Pre-book required: spaces sell out; tickets are per person (return) for each day.
- Operating window (example for F1): To circuit Thu ~10:30–18:30; Fri ~06:30–18:30; Sat ~06:30–14:00; Sun ~05:30–14:00. From circuit Thu–Sat ~16:30–23:00; Sun ~16:30–21:30.
- Fast exit after the race: Park & Ride buses use priority routes; expect queues but they usually move steadily once loading begins.
Driving & on-site parking
- Parking is pre-book only. Buy a car-park pass (valid for your selected days) in addition to your event ticket.
- Blue route & one-way systems: Near the venue, follow event signs for the BLUE PUBLIC ROUTE. Temporary one-way systems operate at peak times-obey stewards.
- Opening hours: Car parks typically open ~30 minutes before spectator gates and close overnight (no overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles).
- Motorcycles: Usually accommodated without charge in designated areas (check the current year’s policy when booking).
Taxis & private hire
- No general drop-off at gates on F1 weekend. Taxis/private hire vehicles are not permitted to set down at the circuit entrances. Use Park & Ride or rail shuttles instead.
- Pre-book if you must: If using a taxi for part of your journey, arrange to meet at an approved transport hub (e.g., a rail station or Park & Ride) rather than near the track.
Walking & cycling
- Walking: The circuit is in a rural area; walking from nearby towns/villages is long and restricted by road closures on race day.
- Cycling: Not officially catered for on F1 weekend due to traffic management and limited on-site cycle facilities; use public transport where possible.
Accessibility
- Blue Badge parking: Limited on-site bays (near Car Park 50) must be pre-booked; display your Blue Badge and event-issued disabled parking pass.
- Assistance at Park & Ride: Additional Blue Badge parking and assistance teams are available at Park & Ride hubs.
- On-site support: Accessibility teams and stewards operate across gates and transport drop-offs-ask staff if you need help with routes or transfers.
Airports & long-distance travel
- Airports (approx. by road): Birmingham BHX ~80 km; London Luton LTN ~75 km; London Heathrow LHR ~110 km; East Midlands EMA ~95 km.
- Rail connections: From airports, connect via mainline services to Milton Keynes Central, Northampton or Banbury for event shuttles.
- Coach options: National operators and event travel partners run direct services-book early for race day.
Quick gate guide (what’s nearest)
- Rail shuttles: Set down within walking distance of main public gates (stewarded routes; follow signage).
- Park & Ride buses: Drop close to outer entrances with short, signposted walks to arena entrances and fan zones.
Always check your e-tickets and pre-event emails for your assigned hub, gate, and any last-minute transport changes.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Silverstone Circuit (Northamptonshire, UK)
Whether you are here for Formula 1, MotoGP, BTCC, WEC, British GT or a packed club racing weekend, Silverstone sits between historic houses, pretty villages and lively city hubs - perfect for filling mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Silverstone Museum: Interactive galleries, simulators and big race stories. Often open year round. On major events, access may require an event ticket and timed entry.
- Whittlebury Park Spa and Leisure: Pools, thermal experiences and family friendly hotel facilities a few minutes from the gates.
- Xscape Milton Keynes: Indoor snow slope, cinema, bowling and climbing - an easy weather proof option.
- iFLY Milton Keynes: Indoor skydiving with junior and beginner sessions that can be pre booked.
- Stowe House and Gardens: Landscaped parkland, lakes and temples - perfect for picnics and kid friendly walks.
- Canal Museum, Stoke Bruerne: Hands on waterways history with towpath strolls and narrowboats to watch.
- Salcey Forest: Waymarked trails, play areas and a cafe for a relaxed half day outdoors.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- British Motor Museum, Gaydon: Hundreds of British cars, family trails and rotating exhibits - ideal for car mad kids.
- Bletchley Park: Codebreaking galleries, huts and interactive displays from World War II - allow at least half a day.
- Oxford museums: The Ashmolean and Oxford University Museum of Natural History are free entry with great family programs.
- MK Gallery and theatre district: Contemporary art plus evening shows and plenty of dining choice.
Eat and drink like a local
- Towcester and Brackley: Independent pubs and cafes for hearty post track meals.
- Oxford Covered Market: Historic indoor market with artisan food counters - great for a grazing lunch.
- Bicester Village: Designer outlet shopping with all day dining options - useful for mixed groups.
- Milton Keynes Hub and The Theatre District: Dozens of restaurants with late openings on weekends.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Country walks: Stowe Gardens, Salcey Forest and the Grand Union Canal offer easy loops for all ages.
- Karting: Several outdoor circuits in the wider area offer arrive and drive on non event days - always check availability and license rules.
- Golf and spa time: Courses and day spas at Whittlebury Park and nearby hotels are popular with groups.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Oxford - 45 to 60 minutes. Colleges, river punts, covered market and free museums make an easy full day.
- Blenheim Palace, Woodstock - 30 to 45 minutes. World Heritage palace with grand gardens and seasonal events. Timed tickets recommended.
- Stratford upon Avon - Around 60 minutes. Shakespeare attractions, boat cruises and Royal Shakespeare Company performances in season.
- Warwick Castle - Roughly 60 minutes. Jousts, birds of prey, towers and dungeons make a full family day.
- Cotswolds villages - 60 to 90 minutes. Bourton on the Water, Stow on the Wold and Bibury for classic honey stone scenery, tearooms and short rambles.
- British Motor Museum, Gaydon - 40 to 50 minutes. Pair with a pub lunch in Wellesbourne or Kineton.
- Bletchley Park - 40 to 50 minutes. Book add on talks or temporary exhibitions for a deeper dive.
Driving times are approximate and can increase on big event weekends. Always check opening hours and pre book popular attractions.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring to early autumn brings the biggest events and the most off track entertainment. Book hotels and restaurants well in advance.
- Weather - British summer can swing from sunny to showers in the same day. Bring waterproofs, sunscreen and comfortable footwear.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Traffic management: Local roads may switch to one way plans with rolling closures and speed restrictions. Build extra time into any off track plans.
- Museum access: Silverstone Museum may restrict entry or require event tickets on major weekends.
- Pre booking: Reserve restaurants, spa slots, karting and family activities early for F1, MotoGP and other headline events.
Opening hours, programs and event week operations can change - check official sites close to your visit, especially on headline weekends.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Silverstone, Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
Track Info
Silverstone Circuit - Northamptonshire, United Kingdom
Permanent road course on a former RAF airfield - clockwise - current GP layout introduced 2010 and used since 2011
When was the track built?
Post-war Britain turned disused airfields into race circuits, and Silverstone is the most famous of them. The perimeter roads of RAF Silverstone were first used for club racing in 1947, then formally for the RAC International Grand Prix in 1948. In 1950, Silverstone staged the first World Championship Formula 1 race, attended by King George VI. Through multiple redesigns, the venue has kept its airfield DNA while adding modern safety and facilities.
The current Grand Prix configuration debuted for 2010 with the Arena loop and a new pit complex on the Hamilton Straight from 2011, lengthening the lap and reshaping sectors without losing the track’s trademark speed.
When was its first race?
The circuit’s first race was the 1948 RAC International Grand Prix on 2 October 1948, won by Luigi Villoresi in a Maserati. Silverstone later hosted the inaugural World Championship British Grand Prix in 1950.
What's the circuit like?
- Fast and flowing: Copse is taken at stunning speed, then comes the signature Maggotts-Becketts-Chapel change of direction that compresses the field and punishes any imbalance.
- Wind and grip: As a flat ex-airfield, Silverstone is exposed to gusts that can swing balance corner to corner. Cooler UK temps often mean durable tyre life but tricky warm-up.
- DRS and overtakes: Two DRS zones - Wellington Straight into Brooklands and the Hangar Straight into Stowe - are prime passing spots, with additional action into Village and The Loop on restarts.
- Corner names with stories: Abbey and Luffield reference a medieval abbey, Maggotts is named for Maggot Moor, and Becketts for St Thomas à Becket. The Hangar Straight recalls the airfield hangars.
Benchmark pace: Hamilton’s 2020 pole 1:24.303 remains a modern reference for one-lap speed, while Verstappen’s 1:27.097 is the official race lap record.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:27.097 - Max Verstappen, 2020 British GP (current 5.891 km layout).
- FIA WEC (LMP1 reference): 1:37.289 - Toyota TS050 Hybrid, 2019 4 Hours of Silverstone.
- FIA Formula 2: 1:39.993 - Jack Aitken, 2019 F2 round (Grand Prix layout).
- FIA Formula 3: 1:45.692 - Logan Sargeant, 2019 F3 round.
- MotoGP (recent benchmarks): All-time lap record 1:57.3 range in practice and a 1:58.895 best race lap in 2024 on the 5.9 km bike layout. Bikes use their own timing history separate from F1.
Why go?
Silverstone is the spiritual home of British motorsport - a festival atmosphere with huge grandstands, camping villages, live music and trackside fan zones. Expect sell-out crowds for F1, a packed support bill, and sightlines that let you watch cars change direction at world-beating speeds. It is one of the best places on earth to feel what modern downforce looks like in the flesh.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Becketts Complex: Panoramic view of Maggotts-Becketts-Chapel - watch drivers thread the needle at high speed and see pace differences amplified.
- Stowe: Huge braking from the Hangar Straight DRS zone - classic divebombs and outside swoops.
- Brooklands-Luffield-Woodcote: Great for overtakes from the Wellington Straight and long views as cars fight traction onto the National Pits Straight.
- Club and Hamilton Straight: Final-corner drama, podium views and start-finish action with the modern pit complex as a backdrop.
Not just F1: UK and world series at Silverstone
MotoGP British Grand Prix: Premier motorcycle racing returns each summer on a bike-specific 5.9 km layout - breathtaking elbow-down speeds through Maggotts and Becketts.
FIA World Endurance Championship: Silverstone has hosted rounds for LMP and GT machinery, with hybrid prototypes setting eye-opening averages through the fast stuff.
FIA Formula 2 and Formula 3: Top junior single-seater categories share the F1 weekend, showcasing future stars in slipstream battles on Wellington and Hangar.
BTCC and British GT: Britain’s marquee touring cars and national GTs race on Silverstone’s various layouts across the season, delivering dense packs and photo-finish sprints.
Porsche Supercup and Carrera Cup GB: One-make GT action often features on Grand Prix and national bills with deep grids and relentless midfield fights.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Silverstone Circuit (British Grand Prix)
Best options are train + official shuttle or Park & Ride. On F1 weekend there is no general public drop-off at the circuit; plan ahead and pre-book travel/parking.
Trains & official shuttles (easiest way)
- From London: Euston → Milton Keynes Central (fast services often < 40–50 min) or Euston → Northampton. Marylebone → Banbury is another good option.
- Station shuttles: Return buses run between the listed stations and Silverstone on all event days. Book shuttle tickets in advance (they are separate from your rail fare).
- Journey times (typical): MKC ~50 min • Northampton ~40 min • Banbury ~50 min by shuttle, subject to traffic.
- Where you’re dropped: Shuttles set down a short walk from the public gates with stewards and signage directing you in.
Tip: Aim to arrive at the rail station early on Sunday to avoid peak queues for the morning shuttles.
Park & Ride (stress-free driving)
Leave your car at a designated hub off the motorway network and ride the dedicated bus to the circuit.
- Pre-book required: spaces sell out; tickets are per person (return) for each day.
- Operating window (example for F1): To circuit Thu ~10:30–18:30; Fri ~06:30–18:30; Sat ~06:30–14:00; Sun ~05:30–14:00. From circuit Thu–Sat ~16:30–23:00; Sun ~16:30–21:30.
- Fast exit after the race: Park & Ride buses use priority routes; expect queues but they usually move steadily once loading begins.
Driving & on-site parking
- Parking is pre-book only. Buy a car-park pass (valid for your selected days) in addition to your event ticket.
- Blue route & one-way systems: Near the venue, follow event signs for the BLUE PUBLIC ROUTE. Temporary one-way systems operate at peak times-obey stewards.
- Opening hours: Car parks typically open ~30 minutes before spectator gates and close overnight (no overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles).
- Motorcycles: Usually accommodated without charge in designated areas (check the current year’s policy when booking).
Taxis & private hire
- No general drop-off at gates on F1 weekend. Taxis/private hire vehicles are not permitted to set down at the circuit entrances. Use Park & Ride or rail shuttles instead.
- Pre-book if you must: If using a taxi for part of your journey, arrange to meet at an approved transport hub (e.g., a rail station or Park & Ride) rather than near the track.
Walking & cycling
- Walking: The circuit is in a rural area; walking from nearby towns/villages is long and restricted by road closures on race day.
- Cycling: Not officially catered for on F1 weekend due to traffic management and limited on-site cycle facilities; use public transport where possible.
Accessibility
- Blue Badge parking: Limited on-site bays (near Car Park 50) must be pre-booked; display your Blue Badge and event-issued disabled parking pass.
- Assistance at Park & Ride: Additional Blue Badge parking and assistance teams are available at Park & Ride hubs.
- On-site support: Accessibility teams and stewards operate across gates and transport drop-offs-ask staff if you need help with routes or transfers.
Airports & long-distance travel
- Airports (approx. by road): Birmingham BHX ~80 km; London Luton LTN ~75 km; London Heathrow LHR ~110 km; East Midlands EMA ~95 km.
- Rail connections: From airports, connect via mainline services to Milton Keynes Central, Northampton or Banbury for event shuttles.
- Coach options: National operators and event travel partners run direct services-book early for race day.
Quick gate guide (what’s nearest)
- Rail shuttles: Set down within walking distance of main public gates (stewarded routes; follow signage).
- Park & Ride buses: Drop close to outer entrances with short, signposted walks to arena entrances and fan zones.
Always check your e-tickets and pre-event emails for your assigned hub, gate, and any last-minute transport changes.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Silverstone Circuit (Northamptonshire, UK)
Whether you are here for Formula 1, MotoGP, BTCC, WEC, British GT or a packed club racing weekend, Silverstone sits between historic houses, pretty villages and lively city hubs - perfect for filling mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Silverstone Museum: Interactive galleries, simulators and big race stories. Often open year round. On major events, access may require an event ticket and timed entry.
- Whittlebury Park Spa and Leisure: Pools, thermal experiences and family friendly hotel facilities a few minutes from the gates.
- Xscape Milton Keynes: Indoor snow slope, cinema, bowling and climbing - an easy weather proof option.
- iFLY Milton Keynes: Indoor skydiving with junior and beginner sessions that can be pre booked.
- Stowe House and Gardens: Landscaped parkland, lakes and temples - perfect for picnics and kid friendly walks.
- Canal Museum, Stoke Bruerne: Hands on waterways history with towpath strolls and narrowboats to watch.
- Salcey Forest: Waymarked trails, play areas and a cafe for a relaxed half day outdoors.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- British Motor Museum, Gaydon: Hundreds of British cars, family trails and rotating exhibits - ideal for car mad kids.
- Bletchley Park: Codebreaking galleries, huts and interactive displays from World War II - allow at least half a day.
- Oxford museums: The Ashmolean and Oxford University Museum of Natural History are free entry with great family programs.
- MK Gallery and theatre district: Contemporary art plus evening shows and plenty of dining choice.
Eat and drink like a local
- Towcester and Brackley: Independent pubs and cafes for hearty post track meals.
- Oxford Covered Market: Historic indoor market with artisan food counters - great for a grazing lunch.
- Bicester Village: Designer outlet shopping with all day dining options - useful for mixed groups.
- Milton Keynes Hub and The Theatre District: Dozens of restaurants with late openings on weekends.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Country walks: Stowe Gardens, Salcey Forest and the Grand Union Canal offer easy loops for all ages.
- Karting: Several outdoor circuits in the wider area offer arrive and drive on non event days - always check availability and license rules.
- Golf and spa time: Courses and day spas at Whittlebury Park and nearby hotels are popular with groups.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Oxford - 45 to 60 minutes. Colleges, river punts, covered market and free museums make an easy full day.
- Blenheim Palace, Woodstock - 30 to 45 minutes. World Heritage palace with grand gardens and seasonal events. Timed tickets recommended.
- Stratford upon Avon - Around 60 minutes. Shakespeare attractions, boat cruises and Royal Shakespeare Company performances in season.
- Warwick Castle - Roughly 60 minutes. Jousts, birds of prey, towers and dungeons make a full family day.
- Cotswolds villages - 60 to 90 minutes. Bourton on the Water, Stow on the Wold and Bibury for classic honey stone scenery, tearooms and short rambles.
- British Motor Museum, Gaydon - 40 to 50 minutes. Pair with a pub lunch in Wellesbourne or Kineton.
- Bletchley Park - 40 to 50 minutes. Book add on talks or temporary exhibitions for a deeper dive.
Driving times are approximate and can increase on big event weekends. Always check opening hours and pre book popular attractions.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring to early autumn brings the biggest events and the most off track entertainment. Book hotels and restaurants well in advance.
- Weather - British summer can swing from sunny to showers in the same day. Bring waterproofs, sunscreen and comfortable footwear.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Traffic management: Local roads may switch to one way plans with rolling closures and speed restrictions. Build extra time into any off track plans.
- Museum access: Silverstone Museum may restrict entry or require event tickets on major weekends.
- Pre booking: Reserve restaurants, spa slots, karting and family activities early for F1, MotoGP and other headline events.
Opening hours, programs and event week operations can change - check official sites close to your visit, especially on headline weekends.
