Ultimate Track Guide: How to Experience the British GP
Written by Nicole MaatDec 4, 2024
2 min
Formula 1
Written by Nicole Maat
Written by Nicole MaatCheck some other articles
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Home to the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit offers fans an unforgettable Formula 1 experience. Surrounded by lush Northamptonshire countryside, this iconic track combines high-speed straights and technical corners, delivering non-stop action. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or attending your first race, this guide will help you make the most of your to legendary Silverstone.
Jump to:
1. Key Stats
2. Circuit history
3. Famous corners
4. Our favorite grandstands
5. What to bring
6. How to get there
7. Buy tickets
–Construction: 1947
–First race in F1: 1950
–Location: Northamptonshire, England
–Length: 5,891 km
–Number of turns: 18
–Most wins: Lewis Hamilton (9)
–Lap record: Max Verstappen (1:27.097, 2020)
–DRS Zones: 2
Silverstone circuit began as a WII airfield for British bombers with the Royal Air Force operating here from 1943 and 1946. The current track preserves the original triangular layout of those runways, now part of its racing legacy.
The first-ever British Grand Prix, and the inaugural race of the Formula 1 Championship, took place at Silverstone n 1950. While the layout has evolved, Silverstone remains a fan-favorite for its speed and technical challenges.
“Silverstone is a great track; it is of course a very historic track but also great fun. It has a lot of fast corners, Becketts and Maggots being my favorite, and there are always loads of fans out in force.”
– Max Verstappen
-Turn 1 (Abbey): A lightning-fast right-hander where drivers start their laps full throttle, offering a spectacular start to the race. The Silverstone Grandstand offers prime views of this intense action.
-Turn 9 (Copse Corner): Known for its speed, drivers take this corner near flat-out, making it one of the track’s most exciting points.
-Turns 10-14 (Maggots and Becketts): This iconic high-speed section demands focus and precision from drivers, reaching up to 310km/h. Fans enjoy a spectacular view of the action.
–Chapel: For panoramic views of Maggots and Becketts, and the Hangar Straight exit, the Chapel Grandstand is a top choice. Here you can see the drivers at their best as they navigate through this fast corner combination.
–Copse (A / B / C): Located at the famous Copse Corner, this grandstand gives fans clear views of the National Straight and the challenging entry to Maggots and Becketts.
–Woodcote B: Perfect for watching the technical Luffield complex and the acceleration towards the National Straight.
Prepare for unpredictable British weather with these essentials and don’t forget to check the forecast!
-Weather gear like ponchos, umbrellas and layers for changing conditions.
-Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for sunny race days.
-Comfortable walking shoes for the distances between different areas of the circuit.
-A water bottle to stay hydrated at water points.
Located in the heart of Northamptonshire, Silverstone is easy to reach by various means of transport:
–By car: Accessible via the M1 and M40 motorways. From London, follow the M1 past Oxford and look for event parking signs near the circuit. From Birmingham, take the M40 towards Northampton. Book partking in advance for spots near the entrance.
–By train: The nearest stations are Wolverton, Milton Keynes, and Northampton (16-20 km from Silverstone). Trains from these stations connect to London Euston, Birmingham New Street and Northampton, and other major routes. Shuttle buses run on race days from Milton Keynes and Northampton to the circuit.
–By Eurostar: For international visitors, the Eurostar offers an easy route to London, with onward connections to London Euston or Victoria, to Milton Keynes or Northampton. Shuttle buses are avialable on race days.
Insider tips:
Take advantage of the Park & Ride service for easy transfers to and from the ciruit, avoiding traffic and enjoying a stress-free experience.
Ready to experience the excitement of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone Circuit? From standard tickets to exclusive VIP hospitality packages, check out our ticket options and secure your place at one of the most iconic races on the calendar.