2023 marks the 75th anniversary of motorsport at Silverstone, and with Formula 1 representing the most technically advanced motorsport on the planet, there’s no other place to be this July.
If you’ve never been to the British Grand Prix or are just looking for some top tips, we’ve got everything you need to know right here.
What’s the schedule across the weekend?
The 2023 Formula 1 British Grand Prix takes place on July 9th, and for the first time ever the excitement begins on Thursday 6th with a British GP Launch Party. The event has a star-studded lineup with stars Calvin Harris, Cat Burns and Jess Glynne set to deliver the concert of the summer. There couldn’t be a better way to kick off the weekend!
Friday brings two practice sessions where the drivers will get out on track for the first time, trying to get a feel for this year’s updates and conditions. After a further practice session Saturday morning, the teams will compete in qualifying to determine their starting grid positions for the all important race. Race day will be filled with all kinds of entertainment from the stars of motorsport, including a historic F1 car show in the morning and the Drivers’ Parade a few hours before the race starts at 3pm. Plus, the entire weekend is jam-packed with racing from Formula 2, Formula 3 and the Porche Mobil 1 Supercup, so you’ll never be short on racing action!
What time should I get there?
The gates open at 6am and you’ll find a queue of Brits carrying deck chairs will quickly form. Competition is fierce for the best locations around the track for those who have general admission tickets, so choosing your entrance and desired spot beforehand is a must.
Where should I sit?
Got grandstand tickets? Brilliant! You’ll have a guaranteed view of the action and can come and go freely without fear of losing your spot. If you don’t have seats included with your ticket, the most important thing to do is plan beforehand where you’ll want to be. If you’re there over the weekend, why not check out all parts of the track and possible seats for race day. The largest area of GA seating is located between the Vale and Stowe corners of the track. Ensure to get there early for a prime viewpoint at the top of the hill. Rather be right up close to the action? There are viewpoints at the fences most of the way around the track. This is also a great place to be if you’re planning to head onto the track after to witness the podium ceremony.
How do I get the most out of the weekend?
Aside from the initial launch party, there is an after party every night of the weekend with live DJs and world-class artists performing on the main stage from the Black Eyed Peas to Tom Grennan. Looking to see your favourite drivers up close? If you’re in the right place at the right time you might just get an autograph or a picture. I mean, the drivers and celebs have to get to the trackside somehow am I right?
There will be all kinds of appearances from the teams spread over the weekend. Catch the Ferarri lads being interviewed by Crofty on the starting gird, or get up close and personal at the mainstage where Sir Lewis’ canine Rosco made an appearance last year. Head over the dedicated ‘fanzone’ for all kinds of activities from race simulators to team merch. Ensure to grab yourself a race headset to hear all the race commentary since it can get a little confusing once the cars start lapping each other (which Max Verstappen makes quick work of).
Where should I stay?
Book a room at one of our Milton Keynes hotels to experience the buzz of the city home to Oracle Red Bull Racing. Or stay at Travelodge Buckingham, only a stone’s throw from the Silverstone Circuit and Brackley town home to the Mercedes F1 team. Be sure to check out Kushboo Brackley the Indian restaurant famous for hosting racing drivers – you might even run into some!
