A guide to the Thruxton Circuit

An ex-RAF base, Thruxton Circuit was first used in 1952 by the Bristol Motorcycle & Light Car Club on a shorter circuit than today's. The following year a new, longer circuit was used, but car racing after this point ceased, although motorcycle racing continued..

The British Automobile Racing Club then took over, and in 1968 they created another new circuit which is virtually identical to that used today. Thruxton provides the opportunity to run an officially measured course around one of the fastest and finest motor racing circuits in the UK.

The track is oval in design and run in a clockwise direction with sweeping fast bends comprising four right-handers, three left-handers and a couple of esses. It is 2.356mi in length and has a licensed grid capacity of 34 starters. The lap record is 1 minute, 1.96 seconds set by Earl Goddard in September 2000.

Thruxton holds comparatively few events because of the local authority. However, there are major events such as the British Superbike Championship, British Formula 3/GT Championships and testing, and a few other car, bike and truck meets. It is also possible to race your own vehicle on track days, but licences apply.

The paddock is on the infield, complete with bar and café and toilet facilities, with a charge for access at larger events. If you can squeeze in at Club, Allard or Cobb, you can see wheel-to-wheel racing of the highest order. Club is the best spot for watching close-up action with outfield viewing and grandstands.