There’s complete silence until there isn’t. Then as quickly as the sun disappears behind clouds the world of Silverstone is turned upside down by the deafening noise of tyres clashing against tarmac. With more cars than legally allowed in one space, drivers come skyrocketing around tight bends. Here, the biggest indication that the British Grand Prix is the ultimate and most loved racing event in the Formula 1 calendar, are the knots ringing themselves tightly in the stomachs of the eager onlookers. One thing is for certain, the British Grand Prix is the event to go to for a hedonistic weekend full of intoxicating, exclusive and heart-stopping adventures.
The races are not the only reason the Grand Prix is an adrenaline-fuelled and entertainment-packed weekend. The course resides on a disused Royal Air Force airfield which adds to the conjured images of heroism and bravery as drivers put their fate in the hands of God. The launch and after-parties, the village enclosure and other top-tier hospitality areas capture the glamour of the Grand Prix while allowing guests to experience the thick of the action in a vibrant party atmosphere.
As one of only two countries to annually hold the Grand Prix, England’s Silverstone has become the most exclusive “home of British motorsport” and for good reason. Silverstone came into existence after 12 drivers – one of whom ran over a sheep that had wandered onto the circuit – started an impromptu race. To this day the course continues to manifest its original picture of speed and unpredictability.
The complexity of the circuit includes the third longest track at 5.981km, historic corners that enforce speed and long straights taken at full momentum. Such challenging features leave many racers zipping through at neck-breaking speeds. Pushed to their limit, drivers turn left-right-left-right and if you blink, you’ll easily miss the action. It is no wonder then that these races are so dangerous as the drivers try, at any cost, to overtake the presiding leader and take their position on the podium. With not a split-second to risk, this race is undoubtedly one that requires expertise, acceleration and bravery. Three key components needed to survive the most demanding and ultra-fast character in the Formula 1 universe and win the prestigious RAC British Grand Prix Trophy.
The eminence of the event has, since its inception, seen the likes of King George VI in 1950 to Daniel Craig, the king of modern society, attend the race. Whether one holds celebrity status or is attending out of respect and devotion for the sport, all are treated well and with reverence.
Designers of Silverstone evidently had their guest’s satisfaction in mind. The exclusive and limited Inner Track tickets allow a select few to view the race from the inside of the Formula 1 track at the Becketts and The Loop corners. Here, the sound of roaring engines are within touching distance and the majesty of the event is palpably evident. With these tickets, guests can also experience behind the scenes of the National Paddock and Support Race Paddock, where 70 years of F1 history are on display and where one might catch a magical glimpse of F1 superstars arriving each morning.
For something a little more refined, the Village Enclosure Grandstand privileges viewers with seating among the thick of the action at Aintree corner. There’s nowhere else that offers such exceptional views of drivers racing up through the Loop into Aintree as every second presents a new outcome and a new champion. Likewise, it is the location to be fully immersed in the energy and excitement of one’s fellow spectators as their cheers are as deafening as the cars while their act of standing to cheer and acclaim each and every driver that goes by is intoxicating. It is here that guest’s wanting to experience heart pumping and goosebumps prickling sensations should locate themselves.
From here, it is only a short walk to the Fan Zone and main stage. Here, visitors can spend their days wandering around the track to flying high on bungee trampolines. Friday through to Sunday sees international music stars grace the stage while F1 drivers make an appearance after their Sunday race at the same time as the headlining band begins to perform. The excitement of the Grand Prix is mingled with the romanticism of scintillating tunes and the champagne bar which are available in front of the spectacular views of the first track corner and sunset in the background. These moments form memories that will last a lifetime as the music industry meets Formula 1 to create the hottest and most glamorous parties in town where guests can start and finish their weekend in style.
To continue this classy party atmosphere into the racing, the Fusion Lounge and Apex House focus on offering their guests a stylish and premier hospitality. A day spent at Fusion Lounge is a day spent watching the finest quality racing in an exquisite indoor-outdoor terrace that serves a varied all-day menu celebrating the best of British cuisine and classic cocktails. While Apex House boasts an incredible and elevated view of Silverstone’s prime racing areas and the enthralling finish line. Here, guests are again treated to the highest form of luxury with the addition of a surprise chef and his specially designed signature dishes and a master sommelier who handpicks the perfect wine. All in all, this means not a single person can experience the British Grand Prix in the same way.
An equally important facet of The British Grand Prix is their distinguished history. The Silverstone Experience promises an integrative journey off-track through the past, present and future of motorsports both in terms of the circuit and the drivers. Displays include the Cooper from the first-ever race held at Silverstone while other iconic racing machines reveal cars from different eras starting from the 1940s to present day. This is where one should go to dream big or live vicariously through the memory of racing legends.
Formula 1 racing can be misconstrued to be rough and raucous. But here, at The British Grand Prix, F1 is transformed into a weekend of glamour, haute cuisine intermingled with first-hand adrenaline-packed activities and races. It’s a model for expertise in hospitality, music and most importantly racing and shows that one can have a high-end lifestyle while enjoying the toughest sports imaginable.