Motorsport Venues
FROM A MUSHROOM FIELD TO ONE OF MOTORSPORT’ S GREATEST VENUES, BRITAIN’ S BELOVED BRANDS HATCH CELEBRATES ITS HUNDREDTH YEAR
S tand on the bank at Paddock Hill Bend and the first thing you will notice is how much you can see. The naturally undulating landscape at Brands Hatch gives spectators a birdseye view of continuous racing, while on track it offers a challenging combination of blind crests, diving corners and flowing sequences that puts drivers through their paces.
This, more than anything, explains why the Kent circuit is such an essential part of British motorsport history. Its 1.2-mile Indy circuit is perfect for a first timer to join a track day or begin their first Motorsport UK competition, while the 2.4-mile Grand Prix circuit offers a technically challenging proving ground for those at the top of their game.
It takes rhythm, bravery and full commitment to master, with legendary corners like Paddock Hill Bend and Druids, while the elevation changes throughout its natural layout offer something that very few modern locations can replicate.
Then there is the atmosphere. The bowl-like topography creates a noise that can feel like a football stadium, with banks of fans close enough to literally feel the cars in action. Hosting everything from club racing weekends to the flagship British Touring Car Championship( BTCC) finale, the success of Brands Hatch now is testament to its origins all those years ago.
Revolution Magazine 43