Circuit spotlight: Brands Hatch

Located in Kent and surrounded by woodland, Brands Hatch is one of the UK’s most famous and beloved racing circuits. From F1 legends to club-level heroes, this track has hosted them all — and continues to be a cornerstone of the British motorsport calendar.

Whether you're planning a Brands Hatch track day, attending a club racing weekend, or simply soaking in the action from the spectator banks, this circuit is motorsport heritage at its finest.

Brands Hatch was originally used for grass-track racing in the 1920s, before evolving into a full tarmac circuit in the 1950s. Since then, it has welcomed the biggest names in motorsport, including:

• The Formula One British Grand Prix (held here between 1964–1986)

• DTM, World Superbike Championship, and the British Touring Car Championship

• Countless club and national events hosted by the BRSCC, MSVR, and more

Its mix of history, layout options, and spectator atmosphere make it a favourite among fans and drivers alike.

Brands Hatch features two main layouts:

• Indy Circuit (1.2 miles) – Short, sharp, and intense. A real test of car control and race craft.

• Grand Prix Circuit (2.4 miles) – A legendary extension through the woods, used for major events and elite-level racing.

With undulating terrain and famous corners like Paddock Hill Bend, Druids, and Clearways, it’s a circuit that rewards bravery and precision.

Track days at Brands Hatch are incredibly popular, offering drivers of all levels the chance to experience a world-class racing venue.

Why drive Brands Hatch?

• Iconic F1-era layout

• Excellent facilities and safety standards

• Great visibility for spectators and supporters

• Run by trusted organisers including MSV Track days and Javelin

Booking a Brands Hatch track day is straightforward via the MSV website or third-party providers.

Circuit information:

Track length - 3.916 km (2.433 miles) 

Capacity - 40,000

Lap record - 1:12.276 (Adam Carroll, A1GP Ferrari, 2009, A1GP) 

Gala Performance products are often seen in the Brands Hatch paddock — supporting club racers, privateers, and race teams with reliable, race-ready kit.

Our most popular Brands Hatch-ready gear includes:

• Pop-Up Pit Perches for team comms and strategic support

• Garage Walling Systems to organise your pit bay

• Printed Gazebos for race shelters and branding

• Flags & Banners to make your team stand out

Whether you’re racing in the BRSCC Fiesta Championship or testing your new build, we’ve got the infrastructure to back you up.

Location: West Kingsdown, Kent, TN15 6FS
Parking: Free for most events
Facilities: Toilets, grandstands, paddock access, food stalls, garage hire
Nearby accommodation: Local hotels in Sevenoaks and camping available for major events
Pro tips for first-timers:

• Bring ear protection — Paddock Hill is LOUD

• Arrive early for the best spectator spots

• Bring wet weather gear — this is still the UK!

There’s something electric about arriving at Brands Hatch Circuit. From the moment you pass through the gates, the thrill of motorsport hits you — the roar of engines echoing off the trees, the tang of rubber in the air, and that buzz of anticipation only a race weekend can deliver.

Watching a race here isn’t just about cars or bikes going round a circuit. It’s:

• The drama of wheel-to-wheel battles into Paddock Hill

• The strategy of pit stops and tyre changes

• The roar of the crowd when a local hero takes the lead

You’re not just a spectator — you’re part of it.

But Brands Hatch offers more than just racing:

• Meet like-minded fans and fellow competitors in the paddock

• Learn more about the sport through open paddock access and commentary

• Take part in a range of driving experiences — including hot laps, race car taster sessions, and full Brands Hatch track days

It’s a circuit built for speed, but remembered for atmosphere. Whether you're watching your first race or chasing a podium yourself, Brands Hatch delivers a motorsport experience that’s impossible to forget.

Brands Hatch isn’t just a circuit — it’s a cornerstone of British motorsport history and development.

Here’s how it’s shaped the sport we know today:

• Breeding Ground for Talent
  Countless drivers have cut their teeth at Brands Hatch — learning to master its elevation changes, blind corners, and relentless rhythm. It’s a place where future champions are forged.

• A Hub for Motorsport Innovation
  From grassroots teams to professional outfits, many have used Brands Hatch as a testing ground. The circuit’s technical demands have pushed engineers to evolve new technologies, refine setups, and improve race performance — contributing directly to the sport’s technical progression.

• Championing Grassroots Motorsport
  Through accessible driving experiences, track days, and entry-level championships, Brands Hatch plays a crucial role in growing the motorsport community. It opens the door for fans to become drivers and for weekend warriors to live their racing dreams.

In short, Brands Hatch has fuelled the past, present, and future of motorsport — from F1 legends to first-time track day heroes.

Brands Hatch isn’t just a circuit — it’s an institution. From amateur racers chasing PBs to national championships crowning winners under the sunset at Clearways, the energy at this track is unmistakable.

If you’re part of the UK motorsport scene — or looking to get involved — Brands Hatch is a bucket list essential. And when you’re there, Gala Performance will be right behind the white lines, supporting teams with the best race-day gear in the paddock.

Is Brands Hatch suitable for beginner track day drivers?
Yes — the Indy layout is ideal for first-timers, and organisers offer coaching and guidance throughout.

Can spectators access the paddock?
For most club-level events, yes — which makes it a brilliant day out for families and racing fans alike.

How can I race at Brands Hatch?
Join a series like BRSCC, MSVR, or one-make championships that include Brands Hatch in their calendar.

Does Gala Performance attend Brands Hatch events?
We do — look out for our branded gear in the paddock, and follow us on Instagram for event updates.