Race nation: A thrilling summer of speed, style and spectacle

Adrenaline-packed racing experiences  

Whether it’s burning rubber on an F1 circuit, powering through off-road trails, or clocking laps in an electric kart, these racing experiences deliver the thrill of the drive – no pit crew required. From sleek simulators in city centres to scenic countryside tracks, each spot offers something different.  

Silverstone Circuit Driving Experience, Northamptonshire, England 

Racing fans are in for a treat at Silverstone – the home of British motorsport and Britain’s only Formula One track. The Silverstone Circuit Driving Experience puts your clients behind the wheel of supercars like the McLaren 620R or Ferrari F430, with expert instruction from ARDS-qualified (Association of Racing Driver Schools) coaches. Across a 2.5-hour session, they’ll receive a full safety briefing, experience multiple high-speed laps, and post-drive feedback (available on selected weekends and bank holidays from March to November).  

Getting there: The nearest major international airport is London Luton Airport, just over an hour’s drive from the circuit. Alternatively, London Heathrow Airport is around 90 minutes away by car. 

Racing Car Experiences, Knockhill Circuit, Fife, Scotland  

Your clients can get a taste of competitive racing at Knockhill – Scotland’s National Motorsport Centre and the only FIA- (Federation Internationale de L’Automobile) and MSA-accredited (Motor Sports Assocation) track in the country. The Formula Race Car Experience puts them in the driver’s seat of a single-seater race car. After a comprehensive safety briefing and coaching laps in a sporty SEAT Cupra, they’ll take on the full international circuit – just like the pros. With high-speed straights and dramatic corners, Knockhill’s track offers an authentic, pulse-pounding challenge. Experiences run from March to October). 

Getting there: Edinburgh Airport is the nearest major international hub, just under an hour’s drive from the circuit. 

Driving Experiences, Llandow Circuit, Wales 

For thrill-seekers, Llandow Circuit offers big excitement on a compact track just 20 miles west of Cardiff. Set against a backdrop of rolling Welsh countryside, this experience lets visitors get behind the wheel of famous cars like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and Porsche. After a safety briefing and track orientation, they’ll take on the twists and straights of this accessible-yet-exhilarating course. Aimed at beginners and car enthusiasts alike, experiences are available year-round and can be tailored to suit all levels. 

Getting there: The circuit is a 30-minute drive from Cardiff Airport. Alternatively, London Heathrow Airport is around two hours 30 minutes from the circuit by car. 

F1® Drive, London 

Experience the thrill of Formula 1® at F1® DRIVE – London, the world’s first official F1 karting venue, located beneath Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Race on a 500-metre track featuring 17 challenging turns and two DRS zones, inspired by iconic F1 circuits. Choose from various sessions, including Mixed Grid, Rookie Racers, Sprint and Elite, catering to all ages and skill levels. Off the track, clients can immerse themselves in the Fan Zone with full-motion VR5 racing simulators, live race data, and replays. Enjoy a selection of food and drinks, and explore official F1 merchandise and memorabilia. 

Getting there: From London Heathrow Airport, take the Elizabeth Line to Liverpool Street Station, then transfer to the London Overground to White Hart Lane Station. The total journey takes approximately one hour and 18 minutes. 

Range Rover Driving Experience, various locations 

For clients who prefer grit over grid, the Land Rover Driving Experience is a thrilling off-road adventure. Available at specialist Land Rover centres across Britain – including Eastnor in Herefordshire, the Scottish Highlands and North Yorkshire – this experience puts visitors behind the wheel of 4x4s to conquer rugged terrain, steep gradients, water crossings and woodland tracks. Expert instructors guide drivers through the technical challenges, helping them master the vehicle’s state-of-the-art off-road systems. It’s an immersive way to explore the countryside, combining British engineering with scenic landscapes. Sessions range from taster drives to full-day adventures. 

Getting there: Locations are easily accessible from major cities such as Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham and London. For example, Eastnor Castle is just over an hour from Birmingham Airport, while the Yorkshire centre in Skipton is within reach of Leeds Bradford Airport and York. 

Go Karting at TeamSport, various locations 

For fast-paced fun that appeals to both younger speedsters and ‘young-at-heart’ adventure-seekers, TeamSport indoor karting tracks offer an introduction to the racing world. With 37 venues across the UK – including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow and Newcastle – these high-spec tracks feature multi-level circuits that fuel friendly competition. Electric karts at select venues (like London Docklands and Warrington) offer a quieter, eco-conscious option without compromising on speed. Professional-grade timing systems track lap performance, making it a race to remember.  

Getting there: Most TeamSport venues are conveniently located near major transport hubs. For example, the London Docklands track is just 20 minutes from London City Airport, while Manchester Trafford is under 30 minutes from Manchester Airport. 

E-Karting at Gravity-Global, Stratford, England 

Clients can get a unique racing experience at Gravity-Global’s cutting-edge e-Karting track in Stratford. Set inside Westfield Stratford City – one of Europe’s largest shopping and leisure centres – this multi-level circuit features high-performance electric karts, immersive lighting, and tracks designed for serious speed. Sessions include safety briefings and digital lap timing. With entertainment, dining, and shopping just steps away, it’s a fun add-on to a London itinerary. 

Getting there: The venue is just a 10-minute walk from Stratford International Station and 20 minutes by train or car from London City Airport. 

F1® Arcade, London, England 

For clients craving F1 thrills without climbing into a real car, F1® Arcade delivers high-speed action in a sleek, social setting. Located in the heart of London at One New Change near St Paul’s Cathedral, this immersive venue features state-of-the-art full-motion racing simulators, real-time data displays, and competitive scoreboards. Visitors can race solo or go head-to-head with friends, all while enjoying cocktails, bar food, and panoramic City views.  

Getting there: Just minutes from Bank and St Paul’s Underground stations, the venue is around 30 minutes by car or train from London City Airport. 

National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, Hampshire, England 

Tucked away in the New Forest in Hampshire, the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu is where Britain’s love affair with motoring comes to life. This museum houses more than 280 vehicles, each telling a chapter in Britain’s history of speed. The F1 section is a top attraction, featuring treasures like the McLaren Mercedes MP4/21. Film and TV enthusiasts will be thrilled by the ‘On Screen Cars’ exhibition, featuring vehicles such as Mr Bean’s Mini, the ‘flying’ Ford Anglia from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, the Jaguar XKR from the James Bond film Die Another Day, and Doctor Who’s beloved car, Bessie. Your clients can also explore interactive displays, see record-breaking machines up close, and even take a spin on the outdoor monorail for a unique view of the action below. 

Getting there: Beaulieu is about 20 minutes by car from Brockenhurst Station, which has regular direct trains from London Waterloo (approximately one hour 40 minutes). The nearest major airport is London Heathrow Airport. 

Summer racing highlights: events and festivals  

For fans of speed, spectacle and tradition, Britain’s summer racing calendar delivers in style. From thundering hooves at historic racecourses to high-speed drama on the Formula 1 circuit, these events combine world-class competition with lively atmospheres. Whether it’s trackside glamour, vintage motors or cutting-edge engineering, there’s something to thrill every kind of racing enthusiast. 

The Derby at Epsom Downs, Surrey, England 

6 to 7 June 2025 

The Derby Festival is a test of speed and stamina for three-year-old thoroughbreds (racehorses), steeped in tradition and prestige. This two-day spectacle blends world-class sport with pageantry and style, attracting royalty, racing enthusiasts, and first-time spectators alike. The highlight is Derby Day, which features the Derby – a race often referred to as the Blue Riband of the turf – when the racehorses take the ultimate test of speed. Expect a vibrant atmosphere, elegant fashion, and trackside drama – all set against the scenic backdrop of the Surrey Downs. 

Getting there: Epsom Downs is easily accessible from London, with direct trains from London Victoria and London Waterloo to Epsom Station (around 45 minutes), followed by a short shuttle or taxi ride. London Gatwick Airport is the nearest major international airport, approximately 30 minutes away by car. 

British Grand Prix, Northamptonshire, England 

3 to 6 July 2025 

Get swept away by the roar of the engines and the cheers of the crowd at The British Grand Prix, a highlight of the Formula One calendar held annually at the Silverstone Circuit in Northamptonshire. This event attracts motorsport fans from around the world, as the fastest cars and most talented drivers compete on one of the most iconic tracks. The event offers an electrifying atmosphere, complete with entertainment, fan zones, and the opportunity to experience the latest F1 technology. 

Getting there: The nearest train station to Silverstone is Northampton, around 13 miles (21 km) away. From there, clients can take a taxi or bus to the circuit. The journey by taxi takes around 20 minutes. Train services from London Euston to Northampton operate frequently, with travel times of around one hour. 

Royal Ascot, Berkshire, England 

17 to 21 June 2025 

Royal Ascot is one of the most anticipated events in the British social calendar, blending top-class horse racing with a display of tradition and elegance. Held over five days at Ascot Racecourse, the event is widely regarded as the pinnacle of British flat racing and regularly welcomes some of the finest racehorses from around the world. Your clients can experience the glamour of Ladies Day, renowned for its spectacular hats and fashion statements, and pick from a range of viewing areas, known as Enclosures. 

Getting there: Direct trains run regularly from London Waterloo Station to Ascot Station, with a journey time of around 55 minutes. During Royal Ascot week, extra trains and services are often added to accommodate the influx of visitors. London is served by several major airports, offering a range of options for international travellers, including London Heathrow Airport, London Gatwick Airport and London Stansted Airport. 

Goodwood Festival of Speed, West Sussex, England 

10 to 13 July 2025 

Set against the elegant backdrop of Goodwood House in West Sussex, this four-day celebration is a blend of top-tier engineering and eccentric British flair. Watch as everything from jet-powered bikes to futuristic hyper cars and classic vehicles tackle the famous hill climb. Expect roaring engines, glamorous guests, historic motorsport moments, and famous faces from across the racing world. There’s also a vibrant paddock, immersive tech showcases, family-friendly zones, and even a chance to get hands-on behind the wheel. 

Getting there: Chichester is the nearest train station to the Goodwood Estate, approximately 3 miles (5 km) away. From London Victoria, trains to Chichester take around one hour 30 minutes. Once at Chichester station, clients can take a taxi or event shuttle bus to Goodwood. London is served by several major airports, including London Heathrow Airport, London Gatwick Airport and London Stansted Airport.