The UK has a rich motor racing pedigree, much of it rooted in some of the most famous race circuits on the planet.
These tracks have fascinating, and sometimes unexpected, histories, and echo to the sounds of the past.
They've played host to legendary race drivers, witnessed their fair share of triumph and disappointment, seen amazing feats of bravery, and that's not even to mention what goes on in the pit lane.
We salute these circuits by taking a closer look at three of our most iconic venues – Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Knockhill – all venues where you can book some incredible driving days with us.
Silverstone: A Unique Place In History
Silverstone is arguably the most important race circuit in the world thanks to being the first track used for an F1 race.
But its history goes back beyond this 1950 landmark as it was formerly a World War II RAF bomber station that opened in 1943.
The first major race held at the Northamptonshire site was the British Grand Prix in 1948, and the rest, as they say, is history!
It has seen plenty of memorable moments, including on two wheels when UK fans favourite Barry Sheene battled with Kenny Roberts in 1979, many considering the motorbike race to be the greatest of all time.
The list of incredible four-wheel action is as long as your arm and highlights include Jim Clark cruising to triumph in 1963, James Hunt's popular victory in 1977, Mansell mania in 1987, Damon Hill climbing a mountain in 1995 and Lewis Hamilton's first F1 British Grand Prix win in 2008.
The corners and straights, such as Stowe, Copse, Maggotts, Abbey, Luffield, Club and Hangar Straight, need no introduction to motor sport fans who have come to Silverstone in their hundreds of thousands, and will continue to do so.
Brands Hatch: A Century Of Action
Brands Hatch also has a strong F1 legacy, hosting the pinnacle of motor sport excellence 12 times between 1964 and 1986, while also being the venue for the European Grand Prix in 1983 and 1985.
The Kent circuit can trace its history back almost 100 years when the natural hollow layout was first used for grass track racing.
As well as F1, prestigious race series held at Brands Hatch have included Indycar and Nascar events, British Touring Car Championship, British Superbikes, British Truck Racing, British GT and the World Superbike Championship.
The podium's top spot has been graced by Nigel Mansell, Ayrton Senna, Lewis Hamilton, Jack Brabham, Jenson Button and Carl Fogarty.
Located close to London, the circuit offers drivers and riders the chance to test their skills on an undulating track, with long straights, flowing corners and sharp bends.
Among the supercar marques available to enjoy at Brands Hatch are Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lamborghini and McLaren.
Knockhill: Growth To A National Treasure
Knockhill in Fife celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and has come a long way in just over half a century.
Scotland's National Centre for Motor Sport has humble beginnings. In 1974, a local farmer wanted to transform his sheep farm to a place for adventure, and the inaugural motorcycle race took place that year.
Fast forward to the 1980s and the circuit enjoyed a new lease of life with the development of race paddocks and spectator areas.
More recently, the British Touring Car Championship has pulled in the crowds, with winners including John Cleland, while fast-paced two-wheel action has been provided courtesy of British Superbikes with riders tasting the Knockhill asphalt including Troy Bayliss, John Hopkins and Jonathan Rea.
Fans of single seaters can now take part in the action at Knockhill on our Formula Racing Car Experience, while there's also plenty of supercars to drive.
Great histories, fantastic futures
DrivingExperience is thrilled to offer you the opportunity to drive at these iconic venues, plus many other famous race circuits across the UK.
Each one has its own unique characteristics, so be prepared for the experience of a lifetime.
