Bicester Heritage Centre
Bicester Heritage Centre Track Layout & Length
The Bicester Heritage Centre, situated in Oxfordshire, UK, boasts a notable feature: the Bicester Heritage Centre Circuit. This test track spans approximately1.43 miles (2.3 kilometers) around the perimeter of the heritage site. Designed to accommodate a range of automotive activities and events, the circuit offers a blend of scenic surroundings and versatile driving conditions, making it a favoured destination for enthusiasts and businesses alike within the automotive community at Bicester Heritage.
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Sunday, 13th Oct 2024Saturday, 11th Oct 2025
Saturday, 8th Feb 2025
Friday, 11th Jul 2025
Saturday, 12th Jul 2025
Bicester Heritage Centre Location
The Bicester Heritage Centre car circuit is situated within the expansive grounds of Bicester Heritage, nestled in the picturesque countryside of Oxfordshire, UK. This historic site once served as RAF Bicester, a significant airfield during World War II, and has since been lovingly restored into a vibrant hub for automotive enthusiasts and businesses.
The circuit winds its way around the perimeter of Bicester Heritage, spanning approximately 1.43 miles (2.3 kilometers). It offers a blend of history and modernity, making it an ideal venue for various automotive activities, including vintage car restoration, motorsport events, and specialized driving experiences.
Surrounded by serene landscapes and steeped in aviation heritage, the Bicester Heritage Centre car circuit provides a distinctive backdrop for enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the world of classic cars and contemporary driving pursuits.
Skill Requirements for Bicester Heritage Centre Track
Driving at the Bicester Heritage Centre Track demands a range of skills due to its unique layout and historical setting. Here’s an overview of what drivers need to master:
Precision and Control:
- Tight Corners: The track features several tight corners requiring precise steering and smooth throttle control. Drivers must maintain optimal lines to navigate these turns effectively without losing speed.
Technical Handling:
- Variable Surfaces: As a historic circuit, Bicester Heritage may have sections with variable grip levels. Drivers must be adept at handling these changes, adjusting their driving style to maintain control and performance.
Braking Technique:
- Short Straights: The track’s design includes short straights followed by sharp corners, testing drivers’ braking techniques. Effective braking is crucial to prepare for these turns and avoid overshooting the corner.
Consistency:
- Historic Layout: The track’s layout, inspired by its aviation and motoring heritage, requires consistent performance. Drivers must focus on maintaining rhythm and pace throughout the session to achieve the best lap times.
Spectator Facilities at Bicester Heritage Centre
Bicester Heritage Centre offers a range of facilities designed to enhance the experience for spectators and ensure a comfortable visit. Here’s what you can expect:
Viewing Areas:
- The site features numerous designated spectator areas providing excellent views of the track and activities. Whether you prefer to be close to the action or a bit further back, there are both indoor and outdoor seating options available to suit your preference.
Amenities:
- Visitors can enjoy on-site amenities such as clean, well-maintained restrooms and a variety of food and drink options from the on-site café. This makes it convenient for spectators to refresh and relax while enjoying the events.
Accessibility:
- Bicester Heritage is designed to be accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. The main spectator areas are easily reachable, ensuring everyone can enjoy the events comfortably.
Additional Features:
- The heritage centre frequently hosts events like the popular “Sunday Scramble,” where visitors can explore the site, view vintage cars, and participate in various motoring activities. These events offer a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, perfect for families and enthusiasts alike.
Unique Setting:
- The centre is set within a beautifully preserved World War II RAF Bomber Station, adding a historical ambiance to the modern motoring activities. This unique setting makes Bicester Heritage a special destination for both motorsport fans and history buffs.
Overall, Bicester Heritage Centre provides a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for spectators, with excellent facilities and a unique blend of historical and motoring attractions.
The History of Bicester Heritage Centre
The Bicester Heritage Centre car circuit, situated within the Bicester Heritage site in Oxfordshire, UK, has a rich history intertwined with its origins as RAF Bicester, an important Royal Air Force base during World War II. RAF Bicester played a crucial role in defending Britain during the war and housed various aircraft squadrons.
After the war, RAF Bicester continued to serve various military purposes until its closure in the 1970s. Over the years, the site fell into disuse until its restoration began in the early 2000s. Bicester Heritage was established with the aim of preserving the historic airfield and buildings while creating a vibrant community focused on historic motoring and aviation.
The car circuit at Bicester Heritage Centre was developed as part of this restoration and redevelopment effort. It utilizes parts of the original RAF Bicester airfield infrastructure, repurposing them to accommodate modern automotive activities. The circuit provides a venue for driving experiences, motorsport events, and showcases of vintage and classic vehicles.
The historical significance of RAF Bicester, combined with the efforts of Bicester Heritage to preserve and celebrate this heritage, adds a unique dimension to the car circuit. It serves as a testament to the site’s military past while supporting contemporary interests in automotive culture and motorsport. Today, the Bicester Heritage Centre car circuit continues to attract enthusiasts and visitors alike, contributing to the legacy of this iconic location in Oxfordshire.
Bicester Heritage Centre Characteristics
The Bicester Heritage Centre car circuit stands out with its blend of historical significance and modern driving dynamics. Set on the grounds of the former RAF Bicester airfield in Oxfordshire, UK, the circuit incorporates elements of the airfield’s infrastructure into its layout. This unique combination of history and automotive innovation provides drivers with a diverse experience.
The track itself features a flowing layout that mixes straightaways with a variety of turns, from challenging hairpins to sweeping curves. This diversity not only tests drivers’ technical abilities but also allows for exhilarating speed runs on the straights. The circuit’s design emphasizes both safety and performance, incorporating modern safety measures while preserving the nostalgic charm of its historic backdrop.
Surrounded by scenic countryside views, the Bicester Heritage Centre car circuit offers more than just a place to drive—it offers an immersive journey through time and automotive passion. Whether for driving enthusiasts seeking thrilling laps or spectators enjoying the spectacle, the circuit promises a memorable experience rooted in both past and present automotive culture.