Digging into our ethos of “fast cars slow living”, we hope to inspire you to travel with racing but to take a little longer; to make a road trip through the landscapes, experience the culture, the food, the art, and the architecture.
If you’ve got a day or two spare around the F1 weekend, there’s plenty to see, do and enjoy near the Silverstone Circuit. This village town located in Northamptonshire, England, is most famously known for hosting the iconic British Grand Prix. Silverstone and its surrounding towns have much to offer, so here are some of the best places to stay, things to see, and places to eat. Enjoy!
Key Information
-
Currency: Pound Sterling, GBP.
-
Language: English.
-
Time Zone: British Summer Time (BST), which is equivalent to UTC +1.
-
In an Emergency: Call 999.
-
Weather: The race falls in UK summer, where average temperatures see highs of around 25°C and lows of 13°C.
The Circuit
The first British Grand Prix of the modern era was held at Silverstone in 1948, three years after the end of World War II. The event, which attracted over 100,000 spectators and was won by Luigi Villoresi in a Maserati. Two years later in May 1950, Silverstone hosted the opening round of the modern Formula 1 World Championship. Twenty-one drivers from nine countries lined up, and the race was won by Giuseppe Farina in an Alfa Romeo 158. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth were among the 200,000 spectators watching on.
The circuit is renowned for being one of the fastest tracks on the F1 calendar, and although the track layout at Silverstone has changed many times over the years, historic corners such as Maggotts, Becketts, and Abbey provide some of the biggest challenges for racing drivers. Grandstands around the track place fans and spectators at some of the best overtaking spots and high-speed corners in F1 racing.
See
Blenheim Palace - As one of the most impressive and beautiful palaces in England, Blenheim sits on 2000 acres and has around 300 years of history to discover within its walls. It’s a great spot to admire the heritage, enjoy a picnic or go for a scenic stroll around the gardens. Blenheim Palace is just 25 miles from Silverstone, and open daily.
Stowe Trust Gardens - The Stowe Trust gardens provide some of the most incredible walks to take on a summer’s afternoon. The grandeur of the buildings, the amazing views, and the picturesque landscapes are the perfect place to relax for a few hours. Bring your dog and go for a walk, grab a bite to eat, or read a book! However you spend your time here, it’s set to be a day well spent.
Bicester Village - Bicester Village is one of the UK’s leading shopping outlets located just 15 miles from Silverstone. Bicester is renowned for its range of discount luxury goods and designer stores, including Belstaff, Gucci, and Ralph Lauren to name a few.
British Motor Museum - The British Motor Museum houses a huge collection of British cars, including famous marques such as Aston Martin, Rolls Royce and Jaguar. Located near Birmingham, its a short 40-minute drive from the circuit and a great day out for classic car enthusiasts.
Silverstone Experience - The Silverstone Experience is an immersive attraction focused on telling the story of the past, present, and future of British motorsport. You can sit on a replica of an F1 car and experience the ultimate lap of Silverstone in a 360-degree cinema. It highlights the famous moments in motor racing, and how the sport has progressed over the years, a must-do for all racing fans!
Simply Race - Simply race is a game and entertainment venue with 15 latest technology-linked simulators to play out all of your motorsport fantasies. You can play as an individual, or with a team. But it is guaranteed to get your blood pumping for lights out on Sunday!
London - With Central London just an hour and a half from Silverstone by car, it is a must on your travel itinerary. The multicultural city provides historical sights and a lively cultural scene. Wander through St. James Park, explore the streets of Shoreditch, and take a ride up the River Thames. London's incredible shopping, endless sights, and vibrant nightlife offer something for everyone.
Eat
Silverstone circuit is surrounded by many quintessentially British villages, all with a great selection of local pubs. Some of the best include The White Horse in Silverstone village, The Fox & Hounds in Whittlebury, and The Mill Brewery and The Folly, both in Towcester.
The Hub, Milton Keynes - A complex of popular restaurants and bars, with a mix of fast food and fine dining, to Italian and Indian cuisine. You will definitely find something for everyone.
The Pie Society at the Plough, Towcester - Looking for an amazing, classic English pie? Well, look no further…The Pie Society at the Plough has got you covered for all your pie-related needs in a traditional pub-style establishment. The concept includes choosing your favorite pie, mash, and gravy all in one delicious plate. And include vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free meals in their menu. It’s rustic, familiar, and old-fashioned, and an experience you don’t want to miss!
Caffine & Machine - Coffee house, licensed bar and restaurant, boutique b&b, and art gallery, Caffine and Machine is designed as a place to go if you appreciate moving things. With fabulous food and great coffee, C&M offers everything you expect from a modern member’s club – except you don’t have to be a member to enjoy it. On any given day or night you can expect to see all sorts of eclectic machinery on the C&M parade ground. More details here.
Stay
British Grand Prix Camping - Camping at the British Grand Prix alongside fellow race fans is the best way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the weekend. Pop-up country pubs, late-night discos, and food trucks are a plenty at the various campsites available. More details camping at Silverstone can be found here.
Villiers Hotel - This 49 room hotel is located in the heart of Buckingham, near Milton Keynes. Its spacious rooms and amazing restaurant provide guests with a luxury stay you’re guaranteed to enjoy.
Stay in London - There are both bus and train services from central London to Silverstone on Grand Prix weekend, so it is worth considering staying in the capital. London has an endless selection of hotels and accommodation. Megabus runs a daily service to Silverstone from London Victoria station which departs at 07:30.
Silverstone Golf Club and Hotel - Located directly opposite the F1 Grand Prix Circuit, this is the ideal location for track days. It has an excellent value for money and it’s the easiest way to stay close to all the action on the race weekend. Bonus if you enjoy playing a nice, quiet round of golf.
Music @ Silverstone
The British Grand Prix is much more than just a race weekend. Embrace the festival vibes by checking out some of the awesome headline artists performing each evening, including:
-
Example - Thursday 30th June
-
Sigala - Friday 1st July
-
Bastille - Saturday 2nd July
-
Mabel - Sunday 3rd July
Other UK Events in July ‘22
The Championships Wimbledon (27th June - 10th July) - The finals of the only tennis Grand Slam on grass take place one week after the British Grand Prix in 2022.
Goodwood Festival of Speed (23 June – 26 June) - A motorsport garden party featuring a huge array of historic race cars and motorbikes racing up the hill against the clock, the Goodwood Festival of Speed is a must-go for serious petrol heads.
Formula E London E-Prix (30th - 31st July) - The FIA Formula E World Championship returns to the streets of London as cars and drivers go head-to-head racing around the city's iconic Royal Docks and ExCeL London exhibition centre.