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Top UK Track Days

Here in the UK we have a strong history of riding. With our country lanes providing excellent riding in virtually all parts of the country, along with the bank holiday tradition of get-togethers and mass outings, there’s a lot of fun to be had on our roads. However, sometimes that simply isn’t enough. If you’re anything like me, you’ll relish the chance to really let loose with trackdays whenever you can. Regardless of your level there’s a trackday out there for you. But they can be expensive, usually upwards of £100 before you’ve even gassed up. This list should give you a bit of a better idea of the right track for you.

Brands Hatch (Fawkham, Kent)

The classic British racetrack, Brands Hatch, has something of a fearsome reputation. As the spiritual home of superbike racing, it’s definitely one to put up on your to-ride list. Racing usually starts here at 9:00 am, and can continue until 6:30 pm, but no later, due to a nearby housing estate. Still, that’s more than enough riding to be had. While it is considered an advanced track, there are numerous novice and intermediate events held here. While it’s possible to have your trackday here as a beginner, it’s well worth waiting until you have around ten under your belt and going for the higher-speed advanced rides. The only real drawback is the cost, which will usually set you back upwards of the £150 mark.

Silverstone (Silverstone, Northamptonshire)

While in the past it’s not often been considered a course ideal for superbike racing, Silverstone has seen a good deal of work specifically to convert it for bikes, most notably the bridge at Bridge Corner. There are a few restrictions worth noting at Silverstone, namely a 102Db volume restriction (105Db static). The course itself offers a nice bonus in the addition of MotoGP legend Ron Haslam hanging around the place, although he’s not always on hand. The track limits the number of bikes to around fifty (depending on who you book with), which makes a nice change.

Donnington Park (Derby, Leicestershire)

Having failed to pick up both Formula One and MotoGP, Donnington is something of a sickly child when it comes to UK race circuits. Still, the 23 years of MotoGP experience it’s had means that this is still something of a Mecca for us superbike types. Demanding technical expertise and offering exhilarating rides, Donnington Park is a circuit of two halves. It’s not a particularly varied course, but it sure as hell separates the men from the boys. A really nice touch is the chance for track evenings. Prices seem to vary greatly, so look out for the good deals.

As well as those three greats, it’s well worth looking at cricuits like Cadwell Park, Snetterton and Oulton Park, which can offer much cheaper days out if you’re working on a budget. Whatever you do, make the most of your next trackday and be aware of the restrictions for roadworthiness, clothing, and volume. Take it from me, being turned away from a trackday because of a silly oversight really stings.

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