Snetterton Circuit
Location:
Norfolk, near Thetford, UK
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Snetterton Circuit
|
Snetterton 300
British Touring Car Championship
23 - 24 May
|
Track Info
Snetterton Circuit - Norfolk, England, UK
Ex-RAF airfield turned national powerhouse - clockwise - three modern layouts (300, 200, 100) with long straights, technical infield and classic fast sweepers like Bomb Hole and Coram
When was the track built?
RAF Snetterton Heath opened in 1943 for the USAAF's 96th Bomb Group. After decommissioning, local enthusiasts Oliver Sear and Dudley Coram secured use of the perimeter roads in 1951. Under MSV, a major 2011 rebuild created today's three-layout complex with improved viewing banks and safety - while preserving the airfield DNA of long blasts and heavy stops.
When was its first race?
The venue's first race meeting was on 27 October 1951 - AMOC-organized "speed trials" sprint races. Motorcycle racing began in 1953, with full car race meetings the following year as Snetterton became a staple of British club and national calendars.
What's the circuit like?
- 300 layout - complete test: A technical infield from Riches to Williams feeds the long Bentley Straight into the Brundle-Nelson braking-while-turning complex, before the signature dip at Bomb Hole and the never-ending right of Coram into Murrays.
- 200 layout - classic airfield vibe: Closest to the pre-2011 course with reworked Wilson hairpin and Murrays for better overtaking - ideal for BTCC and high-speed club racing.
- Corner heritage: Turn names celebrate figures tied to Snetterton - Riches and Coram from the early days - plus modern tributes like Agostini, Hamilton, Williams and the Wilson hairpin (renamed from Montreal in 2016).
- Benchmark pace: F3 race-lap 1:39.933 frames the single-seater ceiling on the 300 - see series list below for GT3 and BSB references.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series - Snetterton 300)
- Formula 3 - race lap: 1:39.933 - Felipe Nasr, Dallara F308, 2011.
- GB3 - race lap: 1:41.280 - Alex Dunne, 2023.
- GT3 - race lap: 1:46.116 - Marvin Kirchhöfer, McLaren 720S GT3 Evo, 2023.
- BSB Superbike - race lap: 1:46.583 - Bradley Ray, 2025.
- GB4 - race lap: 1:47.081 - Cooper Webster, 2023.
- British F4 - race lap: 1:48.072 - Noah Lisle, 2023.
- Porsche Carrera Cup GB - race lap: 1:50.748 - Andrew Rackstraw, 2025.
Historic note - on the pre-2011 course, Klaas Zwart clocked a 0:56.095 race lap in a Benetton B197 F1 (EuroBOSS, 2007).
Why go?
Snetterton serves up proper speed and visibility. From BTCC elbows-out fights to British GT slipstreaming and BSB bravery through Bomb Hole and Coram, it's a fan-friendly bowl with big banks, long green-flag runs and multiple heavy-brake passes.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Tyrrells Stand: Views across the infield from Palmer to Agostini - watch traction battles and set-up differences through Hamilton.
- Oliver Sear Stand: End of Bentley Straight for big moves into Brundle-Nelson - classic out-braking zone.
- Jim Russell Stand - Murrays: Starts, pit work and last-lap lunges into the final corner with the dash to the flag in front of you.
- Bomb Hole banking: Feel the compression and commitment before Coram - brilliant for bikes and GTs alike.
Not just one series - headline events at Snetterton
BTCC: Annual summer stop with three sprint races on the 300 or 200 - strategy and safety cars keep everything tight.
BSB: One of the calendar's fastest venues - drafting along Bentley Straight and commitment at Bomb Hole decide the races.
British GT & Porsche Carrera Cup GB: GT3 and 992 Cup cars showcase aero-braking into Brundle-Nelson and patience through Coram.
GB3, GB4, British F4: Junior single-seaters put on superb multi-car dices through Wilson, Agostini and into the Esses.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Snetterton Circuit - Norfolk, UK
Best options are driving via the A11 to the signed Snetterton junction, rail to Eccles Road - Attleborough - Thetford then taxi, and on site parking and camping on major events. Public transport to the gate is limited, so plan a taxi for the last leg.
Public transport - rail then taxi is simplest
- Train: Use Eccles Road, Attleborough or Thetford on the Cambridge - Norwich line, then continue by taxi to the gate. Services are typically hourly.
- Bus: There is no regular bus directly into the circuit. Journey planners sometimes show combinations to nearby estates, but the operator advises taxis for the last leg.
- Taxi note: Eccles Road does not have a rank - prebook from Attleborough or local operators.
Attleborough is around 5 miles from the circuit by road - taxis take about 7 minutes outside peak times.
Driving - follow A11 signs to Snetterton
- From the south: M11 J9 → A11 toward Norwich - exit at the Snetterton junction and follow brown circuit signs.
- From the north - west: Join the A11 after Newmarket - the circuit sits directly alongside the A11.
Parking - free public car parks on event days
- General parking: Free of charge in allocated public car parks - follow steward directions and venue signage.
- Blue Badge: Follow public signs for disabled parking or ask staff on arrival.
Camping - on site for most events
- Opening times: Typical opening is either midday or 16:30 the day before, closing midday - early evening after the event. Check your specific event page for exact times.
- Maps - pitches: Downloadable campsite maps show general - quiet areas, RV zones and Blue Badge pitches.
Taxis and rideshare
- Set destination: Snetterton Circuit, NR16 2JU. Staff will direct drop off - pick up to active gates on event days.
- From stations: Prebook from Eccles Road or use local firms in Attleborough for faster pickup.
Walking from car parks - stations
- From on site parking: Expect 5 - 20 minute stewarded walks depending on the P zone and your grandstand - viewing bank.
- From Eccles Road Station: Around 2 miles on rural lanes - taxi strongly recommended.
Airports and longer trips
- Norwich Airport NWI → Snetterton: the nearest gateway. Continue by car - taxi via the A11.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Drivers: use the A11 Snetterton junction and follow brown circuit signs.
- Rail users: Eccles Road - Attleborough - Thetford then taxi to the gate.
- Event days: free public parking, Blue Badge areas signposted - check the latest spectator info and venue map before you travel.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Snetterton Circuit - Norfolk - East Anglia (England)
Whether you are here for BTCC, BSB, British GT, club racing, endurance festivals or an open pitlane day, this fast ex airfield circuit sits between Norwich and Thetford with forests, heritage railways, zoos and wide sandy beaches for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Banham Zoo: A top East Anglia zoo 15 to 20 minutes from the paddock with talks, play areas and plenty of shade.
- Bressingham Steam and Gardens - near Diss: Narrow gauge railways, traction engines and landscaped gardens. Great for mixed ages.
- High Lodge - Thetford Forest: Go Ape, bike hire, sculpture trails and big playgrounds for an active half day.
- ROARR Dinosaur Adventure - Lenwade: Dinosaur themed park with indoor soft play and outdoor trails - good rainy day backup.
- BeWILDerwood Norfolk - Hoveton: Treehouses, slides and boat rides in the Broads - brilliant for younger kids.
- Sea Life Great Yarmouth: Easy indoor option that pairs with a beach walk if the weather turns.
Popular family venues use timed entry in school holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Norwich Cathedral and Norwich Castle Museum: Gothic cloisters and city views plus strong art - history galleries.
- Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts - UEA: Sculpture park and world art collections in a striking modern building.
- Dad's Army Museum - Thetford: Compact and fun local TV heritage stop for a quick hour.
- Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation Museum - Flixton: Free entry museum with restored aircraft and engines near Bungay.
- Moyse's Hall Museum - Bury St Edmunds: Local history in a medieval building that pairs well with Abbey Gardens.
Eat and drink like a local
- Market towns - Diss and Wymondham: Bakeries, delis and cafés perfect for paddock picnic supplies.
- Country pubs - Breckland and Waveney: Sunday roasts in winter, beer gardens in summer. Look for thatched village inns on quiet lanes.
- Norwich Lanes: Coffee roasters, independent kitchens and street food for a lively evening after qualifying.
- Coastal treats: Fish and chips at Southwold, Aldeburgh or Gorleston if you head to the sea.
- Local pours: Woodforde's Wherry, Adnams from Southwold, and St Peter's Brewery ales appear widely. Designate a driver if tasting.
- Race week tip: Friday - Saturday tables in Norwich and popular village pubs book fast on BTCC - BSB weekends. Reserve for groups or dine earlier with kids.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Thetford Forest: Waymarked loops for walking and family cycling with plenty of shade on warm days.
- Norfolk Broads: Hire a day boat or try SUP on calm dykes around Wroxham and Horning - best in the morning.
- Suffolk coast strolls: Southwold pier and beach huts, Dunwich Heath heather paths and flat promenades at Gorleston.
- Kett's Country walk - Norwich: Riverside greenways and cathedral views for a gentle urban leg stretch.
- Quiet lane cycling: Rolling backroads around Old Buckenham and Hingham are peaceful if you start early.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Norwich - 30 to 40 minutes. Cathedral, Castle Museum, Lanes shopping and riverside pubs.
- Thetford Forest - 20 to 30 minutes. High Lodge activities, picnic lawns and long forest trails.
- Bury St Edmunds - 35 to 50 minutes. Abbey Gardens, cathedral and Georgian squares.
- Cambridge - 60 to 75 minutes. Colleges, Fitzwilliam Museum and punting on the river.
- Southwold - Aldeburgh - Dunwich - 60 to 80 minutes. Seaside towns, fish shacks and heathland walks.
- Ely - 55 to 75 minutes. Cathedral lantern tower and riverside paths for a calm city day.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Zoos, museums and theme parks often require dated tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring through early autumn hosts BTCC, BSB and busy club calendars. Hotels around Norwich, Thetford and the coast fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Big skies and changeable. Expect sun plus brisk breezes on the exposed banks, quick showers and cool evenings. Pack layers, a light rain shell and sunscreen.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Public experiences and evening sessions may pause or switch to special hours on headline weekends. Check the weekly schedule.
- Ground and shade: Long, open walks between Bombhole, Coram and the infield with limited permanent cover. A small folding chair or blanket and refillable bottles help on warm days.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, waterproof footwear for dewy banks and a warm layer for breezy grandstands.
- Post race plan: Let traffic thin with a forest stroll or a pub dinner in Diss or Old Buckenham before heading out.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Norfolk, near Thetford, UK
Track Info
Snetterton Circuit - Norfolk, England, UK
Ex-RAF airfield turned national powerhouse - clockwise - three modern layouts (300, 200, 100) with long straights, technical infield and classic fast sweepers like Bomb Hole and Coram
When was the track built?
RAF Snetterton Heath opened in 1943 for the USAAF's 96th Bomb Group. After decommissioning, local enthusiasts Oliver Sear and Dudley Coram secured use of the perimeter roads in 1951. Under MSV, a major 2011 rebuild created today's three-layout complex with improved viewing banks and safety - while preserving the airfield DNA of long blasts and heavy stops.
When was its first race?
The venue's first race meeting was on 27 October 1951 - AMOC-organized "speed trials" sprint races. Motorcycle racing began in 1953, with full car race meetings the following year as Snetterton became a staple of British club and national calendars.
What's the circuit like?
- 300 layout - complete test: A technical infield from Riches to Williams feeds the long Bentley Straight into the Brundle-Nelson braking-while-turning complex, before the signature dip at Bomb Hole and the never-ending right of Coram into Murrays.
- 200 layout - classic airfield vibe: Closest to the pre-2011 course with reworked Wilson hairpin and Murrays for better overtaking - ideal for BTCC and high-speed club racing.
- Corner heritage: Turn names celebrate figures tied to Snetterton - Riches and Coram from the early days - plus modern tributes like Agostini, Hamilton, Williams and the Wilson hairpin (renamed from Montreal in 2016).
- Benchmark pace: F3 race-lap 1:39.933 frames the single-seater ceiling on the 300 - see series list below for GT3 and BSB references.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series - Snetterton 300)
- Formula 3 - race lap: 1:39.933 - Felipe Nasr, Dallara F308, 2011.
- GB3 - race lap: 1:41.280 - Alex Dunne, 2023.
- GT3 - race lap: 1:46.116 - Marvin Kirchhöfer, McLaren 720S GT3 Evo, 2023.
- BSB Superbike - race lap: 1:46.583 - Bradley Ray, 2025.
- GB4 - race lap: 1:47.081 - Cooper Webster, 2023.
- British F4 - race lap: 1:48.072 - Noah Lisle, 2023.
- Porsche Carrera Cup GB - race lap: 1:50.748 - Andrew Rackstraw, 2025.
Historic note - on the pre-2011 course, Klaas Zwart clocked a 0:56.095 race lap in a Benetton B197 F1 (EuroBOSS, 2007).
Why go?
Snetterton serves up proper speed and visibility. From BTCC elbows-out fights to British GT slipstreaming and BSB bravery through Bomb Hole and Coram, it's a fan-friendly bowl with big banks, long green-flag runs and multiple heavy-brake passes.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Tyrrells Stand: Views across the infield from Palmer to Agostini - watch traction battles and set-up differences through Hamilton.
- Oliver Sear Stand: End of Bentley Straight for big moves into Brundle-Nelson - classic out-braking zone.
- Jim Russell Stand - Murrays: Starts, pit work and last-lap lunges into the final corner with the dash to the flag in front of you.
- Bomb Hole banking: Feel the compression and commitment before Coram - brilliant for bikes and GTs alike.
Not just one series - headline events at Snetterton
BTCC: Annual summer stop with three sprint races on the 300 or 200 - strategy and safety cars keep everything tight.
BSB: One of the calendar's fastest venues - drafting along Bentley Straight and commitment at Bomb Hole decide the races.
British GT & Porsche Carrera Cup GB: GT3 and 992 Cup cars showcase aero-braking into Brundle-Nelson and patience through Coram.
GB3, GB4, British F4: Junior single-seaters put on superb multi-car dices through Wilson, Agostini and into the Esses.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Snetterton Circuit - Norfolk, UK
Best options are driving via the A11 to the signed Snetterton junction, rail to Eccles Road - Attleborough - Thetford then taxi, and on site parking and camping on major events. Public transport to the gate is limited, so plan a taxi for the last leg.
Public transport - rail then taxi is simplest
- Train: Use Eccles Road, Attleborough or Thetford on the Cambridge - Norwich line, then continue by taxi to the gate. Services are typically hourly.
- Bus: There is no regular bus directly into the circuit. Journey planners sometimes show combinations to nearby estates, but the operator advises taxis for the last leg.
- Taxi note: Eccles Road does not have a rank - prebook from Attleborough or local operators.
Attleborough is around 5 miles from the circuit by road - taxis take about 7 minutes outside peak times.
Driving - follow A11 signs to Snetterton
- From the south: M11 J9 → A11 toward Norwich - exit at the Snetterton junction and follow brown circuit signs.
- From the north - west: Join the A11 after Newmarket - the circuit sits directly alongside the A11.
Parking - free public car parks on event days
- General parking: Free of charge in allocated public car parks - follow steward directions and venue signage.
- Blue Badge: Follow public signs for disabled parking or ask staff on arrival.
Camping - on site for most events
- Opening times: Typical opening is either midday or 16:30 the day before, closing midday - early evening after the event. Check your specific event page for exact times.
- Maps - pitches: Downloadable campsite maps show general - quiet areas, RV zones and Blue Badge pitches.
Taxis and rideshare
- Set destination: Snetterton Circuit, NR16 2JU. Staff will direct drop off - pick up to active gates on event days.
- From stations: Prebook from Eccles Road or use local firms in Attleborough for faster pickup.
Walking from car parks - stations
- From on site parking: Expect 5 - 20 minute stewarded walks depending on the P zone and your grandstand - viewing bank.
- From Eccles Road Station: Around 2 miles on rural lanes - taxi strongly recommended.
Airports and longer trips
- Norwich Airport NWI → Snetterton: the nearest gateway. Continue by car - taxi via the A11.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Drivers: use the A11 Snetterton junction and follow brown circuit signs.
- Rail users: Eccles Road - Attleborough - Thetford then taxi to the gate.
- Event days: free public parking, Blue Badge areas signposted - check the latest spectator info and venue map before you travel.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Snetterton Circuit - Norfolk - East Anglia (England)
Whether you are here for BTCC, BSB, British GT, club racing, endurance festivals or an open pitlane day, this fast ex airfield circuit sits between Norwich and Thetford with forests, heritage railways, zoos and wide sandy beaches for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Banham Zoo: A top East Anglia zoo 15 to 20 minutes from the paddock with talks, play areas and plenty of shade.
- Bressingham Steam and Gardens - near Diss: Narrow gauge railways, traction engines and landscaped gardens. Great for mixed ages.
- High Lodge - Thetford Forest: Go Ape, bike hire, sculpture trails and big playgrounds for an active half day.
- ROARR Dinosaur Adventure - Lenwade: Dinosaur themed park with indoor soft play and outdoor trails - good rainy day backup.
- BeWILDerwood Norfolk - Hoveton: Treehouses, slides and boat rides in the Broads - brilliant for younger kids.
- Sea Life Great Yarmouth: Easy indoor option that pairs with a beach walk if the weather turns.
Popular family venues use timed entry in school holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Norwich Cathedral and Norwich Castle Museum: Gothic cloisters and city views plus strong art - history galleries.
- Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts - UEA: Sculpture park and world art collections in a striking modern building.
- Dad's Army Museum - Thetford: Compact and fun local TV heritage stop for a quick hour.
- Norfolk and Suffolk Aviation Museum - Flixton: Free entry museum with restored aircraft and engines near Bungay.
- Moyse's Hall Museum - Bury St Edmunds: Local history in a medieval building that pairs well with Abbey Gardens.
Eat and drink like a local
- Market towns - Diss and Wymondham: Bakeries, delis and cafés perfect for paddock picnic supplies.
- Country pubs - Breckland and Waveney: Sunday roasts in winter, beer gardens in summer. Look for thatched village inns on quiet lanes.
- Norwich Lanes: Coffee roasters, independent kitchens and street food for a lively evening after qualifying.
- Coastal treats: Fish and chips at Southwold, Aldeburgh or Gorleston if you head to the sea.
- Local pours: Woodforde's Wherry, Adnams from Southwold, and St Peter's Brewery ales appear widely. Designate a driver if tasting.
- Race week tip: Friday - Saturday tables in Norwich and popular village pubs book fast on BTCC - BSB weekends. Reserve for groups or dine earlier with kids.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Thetford Forest: Waymarked loops for walking and family cycling with plenty of shade on warm days.
- Norfolk Broads: Hire a day boat or try SUP on calm dykes around Wroxham and Horning - best in the morning.
- Suffolk coast strolls: Southwold pier and beach huts, Dunwich Heath heather paths and flat promenades at Gorleston.
- Kett's Country walk - Norwich: Riverside greenways and cathedral views for a gentle urban leg stretch.
- Quiet lane cycling: Rolling backroads around Old Buckenham and Hingham are peaceful if you start early.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Norwich - 30 to 40 minutes. Cathedral, Castle Museum, Lanes shopping and riverside pubs.
- Thetford Forest - 20 to 30 minutes. High Lodge activities, picnic lawns and long forest trails.
- Bury St Edmunds - 35 to 50 minutes. Abbey Gardens, cathedral and Georgian squares.
- Cambridge - 60 to 75 minutes. Colleges, Fitzwilliam Museum and punting on the river.
- Southwold - Aldeburgh - Dunwich - 60 to 80 minutes. Seaside towns, fish shacks and heathland walks.
- Ely - 55 to 75 minutes. Cathedral lantern tower and riverside paths for a calm city day.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Zoos, museums and theme parks often require dated tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring through early autumn hosts BTCC, BSB and busy club calendars. Hotels around Norwich, Thetford and the coast fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Big skies and changeable. Expect sun plus brisk breezes on the exposed banks, quick showers and cool evenings. Pack layers, a light rain shell and sunscreen.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Public experiences and evening sessions may pause or switch to special hours on headline weekends. Check the weekly schedule.
- Ground and shade: Long, open walks between Bombhole, Coram and the infield with limited permanent cover. A small folding chair or blanket and refillable bottles help on warm days.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, waterproof footwear for dewy banks and a warm layer for breezy grandstands.
- Post race plan: Let traffic thin with a forest stroll or a pub dinner in Diss or Old Buckenham before heading out.
Opening hours, seasonal programs and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
