Thruxton Circuit
Location:
Andover, Hampshire, UK
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Thruxton Circuit
|
Thruxton
British Touring Car Championship
25 - 26 Jul
|
Track Info
Thruxton Circuit - Andover, Hampshire, UK
Flat-out airfield classic nicknamed the fastest circuit in Britain - clockwise - 3.793 km with 12 turns, colossal corner speeds and the legendary Church right-hander
When was the track built?
Thruxton began as RAF Thruxton in 1942. After the airfield was decommissioned, racing started on temporary layouts in 1950. The BARC-backed redevelopment resurfaced the perimeter road, added chicanes and safety barriers, and in 1968 the current high-speed circuit hosted its first major meeting.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race activity was in 1950 with motorcycles on a runways-plus-roads course. From March 1968, the purpose-laid perimeter circuit took over and quickly earned a fearsome reputation for commitment through Church.
What's the circuit like?
- Flat-out flow: Allard is taken with just a lift in many cars, feeding the technical Complex of Campbell - Cobb - Segrave before the lap explodes into the fast right-left of Noble and Goodwood.
- Church, the signature: One of the UK’s fastest corners, demanding full commitment on worn tyres and windy days.
- Heavy stop finale: The Woodham Hill drag ends in the Club chicane where BTCC and BSB races are often decided.
- Benchmark pace: EuroBOSS/F3000 race-lap 1:01.960 stands as the official car benchmark, with demonstration pace proving the sub-minute potential.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- EuroBOSS/F3000 - race lap: 1:01.960 - Earl Goddard, Reynard 95D, 2000.
- British F3 - race lap: 1:06.752 - Jean-Éric Vergne, 2010.
- F2 (historic) - race lap: 1:07.370 - Johnny Cecotto, 1982.
- Group C/Interserie - race lap: 1:07.460 - James Weaver, Porsche 956 GTi, 1986.
- BTCC - recent reference: modern race laps sit in the mid 1:15s, with Ash Sutton lowering the record in 2024–2025 seasons.
- Outright demo: 0:57.6 - Damon Hill, Williams FW15C, 1993 demonstration.
Why go?
Because nowhere serves high-speed momentum like Thruxton. The schedule might be limited by noise days, but BTCC and BSB weekends are must-see: mega drafting from Noble to Church, elbows-out into Club, and big crowds around the Noble/Goodwood banks.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Noble - Goodwood viewing area: Panoramic sightlines of the fastest section as cars/bikes arc through at full chat.
- Woodham Hill bank to Club: See the top-speed braking battle into the chicane and the sprint to the flag.
- The Complex (Campbell - Cobb - Segrave): Best place to study rotation and patience before the lap opens out.
Not just one series - headline events at Thruxton
BTCC: Britain’s premier tin-top series brings three races and constant slipstreaming through Woodham Hill.
BSB: The fastest venue on the calendar, with average speeds over 180 km/h and breathtaking bravery at Church.
Historic and club racing: From Thruxton Retro to 750MC and CSCC, classic machinery shows off the circuit’s flowing nature.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Thruxton Circuit - Andover, Hampshire
Best options are driving via the A303 with brown Thruxton Circuit signs, rail to Andover then taxi, and on site free parking and event camping on selected weekends. Public transport to the gate is limited, so plan a taxi for the last leg.
Public transport - rail to Andover, then taxi for the final miles
- Train: Ride South Western Railway services to Andover from London Waterloo and other hubs, then take a taxi about 10 minutes to the circuit.
- Bus option: Stagecoach 5 runs Andover - Thruxton village. It does not serve the circuit entrance on the A303 - expect a taxi or long walk if you choose the bus.
- Planner note: Journey apps show multi leg bus routes to stops like Recreation Ground - Army HQ with transfers and lengthy travel times, so a taxi remains the practical choice on event mornings.
Driving - simple via the A303, ignore signs for the village
- From M3 - London: M3 J8 → A303 west. Leave at the signed Thruxton junction and follow Thruxton Circuit signs only. Ignore signs for Thruxton village.
- From M4 - Midlands: Use J15 and the A346 to reach the A303, then follow circuit signs.
- Wayfinding: The karting and 4x4 centre have a separate entrance 100 m before the main gate.
Parking - free, stewarded car parks
- General parking: Free of charge in the signed public car parks - follow marshal instructions on approach.
- Maps: Spectator maps on the circuit site show car park locations and walking routes to key viewing areas.
Accessibility - Blue Badge parking and raised viewing
- Disabled viewing: Designated raised banking for Blue Badge holders via Gate 4, giving a view over the Complex. Disabled parking is also available at the top of Car Park A.
- Carer tickets: Carers may be eligible for free admission when arranged in advance with the circuit.
Camping - on site for major events
- Availability: The on site campsite opens for headline weekends such as BTCC and BSB. It is accessed via Car Park A beside the main entrance.
- Typical operation: Gates open from midday the day before and close the morning after the event. Facilities include toilets and fresh water points. Check your event page for exact dates and any pitch rules.
Taxis and rideshare
- Set destination: Thruxton Circuit, SP11 8PN. On event days, stewards direct drop off - pick up to the active gate.
- From Andover Station: Prebook for fastest pickup. Road time is typically around 10 minutes outside peak traffic.
Walking from bus stops - car parks
- From village bus stops: Routes shown by journey planners require transfers and still leave a considerable walk to the circuit. Taxis are advised.
- From on site parking: Expect 5 - 20 minute stewarded walks depending on your P zone and chosen viewing area.
Airports and longer trips
- Southampton Airport SOU → Thruxton: about 40 minutes by road. London Heathrow and Bristol are further but connect easily via the A303 - M3 corridors.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Drivers: use the A303 and follow Thruxton Circuit signs - ignore village signs.
- Rail users: arrive at Andover and continue by taxi for the 10 minute final hop.
- Campers: head for Car Park A to access the on site campsite when operating.
- All visitors: on site parking is free - check your event page for the latest maps, timings and any temporary road closures.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Thruxton Circuit - Andover - Hampshire (England)
Whether you are here for BTCC, historic and club meetings, trackdays or Thruxton Driving Experiences, this fast ex RAF airfield sits between Salisbury and Winchester with zoos, castles, Iron Age sites and New Forest adventures for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Thruxton Kart Centre: Arrive and drive for adults and juniors plus Bambino sessions on selected dates. Book ahead on race weeks.
- Hawk Conservancy Trust - near Andover: Award winning birds of prey displays, woodland trails and play zones. A top half day for all ages.
- Museum of Army Flying - Middle Wallop: Helicopters and Army Air Corps history with cockpits and family trails.
- Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium: Hands on exhibits and dome shows for a strong rainy day plan.
- Marwell Zoo - Colden Common: Big, walkable zoo with themed zones and playgrounds.
- Paultons Park - Peppa Pig World: Family theme park 45 to 60 minutes away if you add a full day for younger children.
Popular family venues use timed entry in school holidays. Early slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Salisbury Cathedral and Close: Towering spire, Magna Carta display and lawns for a relaxed indoor - outdoor mix.
- Stonehenge visitor centre: Exhibition, shuttle and circular path around the stones. Book timed tickets.
- Winchester Cathedral and city museums: Historic nave, crypt sculpture and compact galleries a short walk apart.
- Andover Museum and Museum of the Iron Age: Local stories and Danebury hillfort finds in an easy hour.
- Highclere Castle: Country house made famous by Downton Abbey with seasonal openings and gardens.
- Bombay Sapphire Distillery - Laverstoke Mill: Beautiful glasshouses and guided tours in a converted paper mill. Designate a driver.
Eat and drink like a local
- Test Valley pubs: Classic village inns serving Hampshire beef, game and local ales. Sunday roasts are popular after race day.
- Winchester and Salisbury: Independent coffee, bakeries and modern British kitchens clustered around historic streets.
- Farm shops and delis: Pick up picnic supplies for the banks - pork pies, cheeses and fresh pastries travel well.
- Tea rooms - villages: Cream teas in Stockbridge, Houghton and Longstock pair nicely with river walks.
- Race week tip: Prime Friday - Saturday tables in Stockbridge, Winchester and Salisbury book quickly on BTCC weekends. Reserve for groups or dine earlier with kids.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Danebury Iron Age Hillfort: Short circular rampart walk with wide views. Grassy slopes suit quick picnic stops.
- Test Way and River Test paths: Flat chalk stream strolls near Stockbridge with fly fishing viewpoints and water meadows.
- New Forest National Park: Pony dotted heathland, forest loops and car free family cycling on old railway trails.
- Old Sarum: Hilltop earthworks and castle remains overlooking Salisbury plains for a breezy sunrise or sunset visit.
- Clarendon Way segments: Waymarked countryside sections between Salisbury and Winchester if you want a simple leg stretch.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Salisbury - 25 to 35 minutes. Cathedral, Close and Old Sarum.
- Winchester - 30 to 40 minutes. Cathedral, Great Hall and riverside walks.
- New Forest - 40 to 60 minutes. Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and woodland trails with picnic lawns.
- Highclere Castle - 30 to 45 minutes. House and gardens on seasonal dates.
- Stonehenge and Avebury - 30 to 60 minutes. Two outstanding prehistoric landscapes if you add time.
- Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - 60 to 80 minutes. HMS Victory, Mary Rose Museum and harbour boats for a big indoor - outdoor day.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Stonehenge, Highclere and popular zoo - theme parks often require dated tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring through summer features BTCC and major club events, with limited but high profile weekends due to planning limits. Hotels in Andover, Salisbury and Winchester fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Open airfield site. Expect brisk breezes, bright sun and quick showers. Pack sunscreen, a hat, a light rain shell and layers for cooler evenings on the banks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Driving experiences, karting, skid pan and 4x4 often pause or switch to special hours on headline weekends. Check the weekly schedule.
- Ground and shade: Long, exposed walks around the perimeter banks and complex. A small folding chair or blanket and refillable bottles make days easier.
- Viewing picks: Church, Village and Noble corners show Thruxton's fast sweeps. The complex offers close braking and exit traction battles.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, waterproof footwear for dewy grass and a warm layer for breezy grandstands.
Opening hours, seasonal programs, heritage site ticketing and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
Andover, Hampshire, UK
Track Info
Thruxton Circuit - Andover, Hampshire, UK
Flat-out airfield classic nicknamed the fastest circuit in Britain - clockwise - 3.793 km with 12 turns, colossal corner speeds and the legendary Church right-hander
When was the track built?
Thruxton began as RAF Thruxton in 1942. After the airfield was decommissioned, racing started on temporary layouts in 1950. The BARC-backed redevelopment resurfaced the perimeter road, added chicanes and safety barriers, and in 1968 the current high-speed circuit hosted its first major meeting.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race activity was in 1950 with motorcycles on a runways-plus-roads course. From March 1968, the purpose-laid perimeter circuit took over and quickly earned a fearsome reputation for commitment through Church.
What's the circuit like?
- Flat-out flow: Allard is taken with just a lift in many cars, feeding the technical Complex of Campbell - Cobb - Segrave before the lap explodes into the fast right-left of Noble and Goodwood.
- Church, the signature: One of the UK’s fastest corners, demanding full commitment on worn tyres and windy days.
- Heavy stop finale: The Woodham Hill drag ends in the Club chicane where BTCC and BSB races are often decided.
- Benchmark pace: EuroBOSS/F3000 race-lap 1:01.960 stands as the official car benchmark, with demonstration pace proving the sub-minute potential.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- EuroBOSS/F3000 - race lap: 1:01.960 - Earl Goddard, Reynard 95D, 2000.
- British F3 - race lap: 1:06.752 - Jean-Éric Vergne, 2010.
- F2 (historic) - race lap: 1:07.370 - Johnny Cecotto, 1982.
- Group C/Interserie - race lap: 1:07.460 - James Weaver, Porsche 956 GTi, 1986.
- BTCC - recent reference: modern race laps sit in the mid 1:15s, with Ash Sutton lowering the record in 2024–2025 seasons.
- Outright demo: 0:57.6 - Damon Hill, Williams FW15C, 1993 demonstration.
Why go?
Because nowhere serves high-speed momentum like Thruxton. The schedule might be limited by noise days, but BTCC and BSB weekends are must-see: mega drafting from Noble to Church, elbows-out into Club, and big crowds around the Noble/Goodwood banks.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Noble - Goodwood viewing area: Panoramic sightlines of the fastest section as cars/bikes arc through at full chat.
- Woodham Hill bank to Club: See the top-speed braking battle into the chicane and the sprint to the flag.
- The Complex (Campbell - Cobb - Segrave): Best place to study rotation and patience before the lap opens out.
Not just one series - headline events at Thruxton
BTCC: Britain’s premier tin-top series brings three races and constant slipstreaming through Woodham Hill.
BSB: The fastest venue on the calendar, with average speeds over 180 km/h and breathtaking bravery at Church.
Historic and club racing: From Thruxton Retro to 750MC and CSCC, classic machinery shows off the circuit’s flowing nature.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Thruxton Circuit - Andover, Hampshire
Best options are driving via the A303 with brown Thruxton Circuit signs, rail to Andover then taxi, and on site free parking and event camping on selected weekends. Public transport to the gate is limited, so plan a taxi for the last leg.
Public transport - rail to Andover, then taxi for the final miles
- Train: Ride South Western Railway services to Andover from London Waterloo and other hubs, then take a taxi about 10 minutes to the circuit.
- Bus option: Stagecoach 5 runs Andover - Thruxton village. It does not serve the circuit entrance on the A303 - expect a taxi or long walk if you choose the bus.
- Planner note: Journey apps show multi leg bus routes to stops like Recreation Ground - Army HQ with transfers and lengthy travel times, so a taxi remains the practical choice on event mornings.
Driving - simple via the A303, ignore signs for the village
- From M3 - London: M3 J8 → A303 west. Leave at the signed Thruxton junction and follow Thruxton Circuit signs only. Ignore signs for Thruxton village.
- From M4 - Midlands: Use J15 and the A346 to reach the A303, then follow circuit signs.
- Wayfinding: The karting and 4x4 centre have a separate entrance 100 m before the main gate.
Parking - free, stewarded car parks
- General parking: Free of charge in the signed public car parks - follow marshal instructions on approach.
- Maps: Spectator maps on the circuit site show car park locations and walking routes to key viewing areas.
Accessibility - Blue Badge parking and raised viewing
- Disabled viewing: Designated raised banking for Blue Badge holders via Gate 4, giving a view over the Complex. Disabled parking is also available at the top of Car Park A.
- Carer tickets: Carers may be eligible for free admission when arranged in advance with the circuit.
Camping - on site for major events
- Availability: The on site campsite opens for headline weekends such as BTCC and BSB. It is accessed via Car Park A beside the main entrance.
- Typical operation: Gates open from midday the day before and close the morning after the event. Facilities include toilets and fresh water points. Check your event page for exact dates and any pitch rules.
Taxis and rideshare
- Set destination: Thruxton Circuit, SP11 8PN. On event days, stewards direct drop off - pick up to the active gate.
- From Andover Station: Prebook for fastest pickup. Road time is typically around 10 minutes outside peak traffic.
Walking from bus stops - car parks
- From village bus stops: Routes shown by journey planners require transfers and still leave a considerable walk to the circuit. Taxis are advised.
- From on site parking: Expect 5 - 20 minute stewarded walks depending on your P zone and chosen viewing area.
Airports and longer trips
- Southampton Airport SOU → Thruxton: about 40 minutes by road. London Heathrow and Bristol are further but connect easily via the A303 - M3 corridors.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Drivers: use the A303 and follow Thruxton Circuit signs - ignore village signs.
- Rail users: arrive at Andover and continue by taxi for the 10 minute final hop.
- Campers: head for Car Park A to access the on site campsite when operating.
- All visitors: on site parking is free - check your event page for the latest maps, timings and any temporary road closures.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Thruxton Circuit - Andover - Hampshire (England)
Whether you are here for BTCC, historic and club meetings, trackdays or Thruxton Driving Experiences, this fast ex RAF airfield sits between Salisbury and Winchester with zoos, castles, Iron Age sites and New Forest adventures for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Thruxton Kart Centre: Arrive and drive for adults and juniors plus Bambino sessions on selected dates. Book ahead on race weeks.
- Hawk Conservancy Trust - near Andover: Award winning birds of prey displays, woodland trails and play zones. A top half day for all ages.
- Museum of Army Flying - Middle Wallop: Helicopters and Army Air Corps history with cockpits and family trails.
- Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium: Hands on exhibits and dome shows for a strong rainy day plan.
- Marwell Zoo - Colden Common: Big, walkable zoo with themed zones and playgrounds.
- Paultons Park - Peppa Pig World: Family theme park 45 to 60 minutes away if you add a full day for younger children.
Popular family venues use timed entry in school holidays. Early slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Salisbury Cathedral and Close: Towering spire, Magna Carta display and lawns for a relaxed indoor - outdoor mix.
- Stonehenge visitor centre: Exhibition, shuttle and circular path around the stones. Book timed tickets.
- Winchester Cathedral and city museums: Historic nave, crypt sculpture and compact galleries a short walk apart.
- Andover Museum and Museum of the Iron Age: Local stories and Danebury hillfort finds in an easy hour.
- Highclere Castle: Country house made famous by Downton Abbey with seasonal openings and gardens.
- Bombay Sapphire Distillery - Laverstoke Mill: Beautiful glasshouses and guided tours in a converted paper mill. Designate a driver.
Eat and drink like a local
- Test Valley pubs: Classic village inns serving Hampshire beef, game and local ales. Sunday roasts are popular after race day.
- Winchester and Salisbury: Independent coffee, bakeries and modern British kitchens clustered around historic streets.
- Farm shops and delis: Pick up picnic supplies for the banks - pork pies, cheeses and fresh pastries travel well.
- Tea rooms - villages: Cream teas in Stockbridge, Houghton and Longstock pair nicely with river walks.
- Race week tip: Prime Friday - Saturday tables in Stockbridge, Winchester and Salisbury book quickly on BTCC weekends. Reserve for groups or dine earlier with kids.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Danebury Iron Age Hillfort: Short circular rampart walk with wide views. Grassy slopes suit quick picnic stops.
- Test Way and River Test paths: Flat chalk stream strolls near Stockbridge with fly fishing viewpoints and water meadows.
- New Forest National Park: Pony dotted heathland, forest loops and car free family cycling on old railway trails.
- Old Sarum: Hilltop earthworks and castle remains overlooking Salisbury plains for a breezy sunrise or sunset visit.
- Clarendon Way segments: Waymarked countryside sections between Salisbury and Winchester if you want a simple leg stretch.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Salisbury - 25 to 35 minutes. Cathedral, Close and Old Sarum.
- Winchester - 30 to 40 minutes. Cathedral, Great Hall and riverside walks.
- New Forest - 40 to 60 minutes. Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and woodland trails with picnic lawns.
- Highclere Castle - 30 to 45 minutes. House and gardens on seasonal dates.
- Stonehenge and Avebury - 30 to 60 minutes. Two outstanding prehistoric landscapes if you add time.
- Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - 60 to 80 minutes. HMS Victory, Mary Rose Museum and harbour boats for a big indoor - outdoor day.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Stonehenge, Highclere and popular zoo - theme parks often require dated tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring through summer features BTCC and major club events, with limited but high profile weekends due to planning limits. Hotels in Andover, Salisbury and Winchester fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Open airfield site. Expect brisk breezes, bright sun and quick showers. Pack sunscreen, a hat, a light rain shell and layers for cooler evenings on the banks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Driving experiences, karting, skid pan and 4x4 often pause or switch to special hours on headline weekends. Check the weekly schedule.
- Ground and shade: Long, exposed walks around the perimeter banks and complex. A small folding chair or blanket and refillable bottles make days easier.
- Viewing picks: Church, Village and Noble corners show Thruxton's fast sweeps. The complex offers close braking and exit traction battles.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, waterproof footwear for dewy grass and a warm layer for breezy grandstands.
Opening hours, seasonal programs, heritage site ticketing and event week operations can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.