The Visitor Centre today is ... Silverstone Museum

JULIE WHITE
Jul 3
21 min read

Updated: Aug 6

From wartime airfield to the birthplace of the Formula 1 World Championship, Silverstone Museum celebrates a truly iconic motorsport destination.

My family and I have loved Formula 1 for as long as I can remember. I grew up cheering on legends like Hunt, Lauda, Senna, Prost, Mansell, Schumacher and Hill, so that gives my age away. These weren’t just drivers; they were sporting icons. I still watch every grand prix race, every qualifying session, and all the build-up. It's my weekend routine from March to November. I have my favourite drivers (Sainz and Piastri if you're wondering), but I'm happy to cheer anyone on. I like an underdog. I supported Kevin Magnussen his whole career for goodness sake! And I was ecstatic when Alonso came back as the old man of the grid, even though he's years younger than me. A few years ago, I finally bought tickets to the British Grand Prix, and took my son and husband along for company. It's definitely a considered purchase in this day and age. Sitting up in the Luffield grandstand, it was everything I’d hoped for. An unforgettable experience I’ll always remember, and Lewis won!

Race cars speed around Silverstone's Luffield corner, viewed from a covered grandstand with spectators. Blue and green colours dominate the scene.

On this visit to the Silverstone Museum, I was joined by my daughter, now in her mid-twenties. Until recently, she’d steered well clear of all things F1. But lockdown happened, and like many, she stumbled across Drive to Survive on Netflix. She was hooked. These days, she’s just as glued to the races as I am, has her own favourites (Charles Leclerc), and was as excited to visit Silverstone as she had been to visit the Harry Potter Studios, which we had visited earlier that week. Credit where it’s due, Liberty Media has brought F1 to a whole new generation.

Silverstone is one of the most historic and renowned motorsport race circuits in the world. Located near the village of Silverstone in Northamptonshire, England, it has hosted various motorsport events for over 75 years, making it an integral part of the motorsport landscape.

Map of Silverstone race circuit with labeled sections: grandstands, enclosures, and zones. Various colors denote viewing areas and walking routes. — F1 Master Map Silverstone- Image Silverstone

Known for its fast, flowing layout and heart pounding mix of high speed straights and technical corners, Silverstone delivers racing at its most exhilarating. Unpredictable British weather only adds to the drama, often turning a strategic challenge into a test of nerve. We all love the jeopardy of a wet race! With a crowd of passionate, knowledgeable fans and the weight of history around every turn, Silverstone isn’t just another stop on the calendar, it’s a cornerstone of Formula 1, held in the highest regard by drivers and fans alike.

A person in a red coat walks near the modern museum building for the Silverstone Museum, under a cloudy sky. Green grass and a Union Jack mural are visible.

The Silverstone Museum, sitting at the main entrance to the race circuit, provides context and a fascinating day out for any racing enthusiast and is a welcome addition to the tourism scene in the area.

Having taken more victories around Silverstone than any other driver, his ninth win there coming in dramatic fashion in 2024, Lewis Hamilton knows more than most about what makes this legendary circuit so special.

“Silverstone has always been more than just a race track for me. There are a few sections that really stand out, but Copse into Maggotts and Becketts – that’s just something else. It’s so fast and, when you get it right, it feels like you’re flying. But what makes Silverstone so special for me is the atmosphere. There’s a reason I’ve stood on the podium so many times here, and that’s the love from the fans.” (Sir Lewis Hamilton speaking to Planet F1 July 2025)

Visiting the Silverstone Museum: What to Expect

The brand history

The site that would become Silverstone Circuit, was initially constructed as a Royal Air Force (RAF) bomber base in 1943, during World War II. Known as RAF Silverstone, the airfield was primarily used by the RAF's Bomber Command.

Exhibit panel at the Silverstone Museum titled "Silverstone T2 Aircraft Hangar" with text about its history and refurbishment, featuring photos and diagrams on a blue background.

After the war, the airfield became disused, prompting a group of local racing enthusiasts to approach the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) in 1948, with the idea of using the site as a race track. The RAC agreed, and leased the airfield from the government and established the Silverstone Circuit. In October 1948, Silverstone held its first event, the RAC Grand Prix.

Vintage race scene from the first Silverstone grand prix shows several classic cars on a track, drivers focused. Crowds line the sides, watching eagerly on a sunny day. — 1948 British Grand Prix - Image Motorsport Magazine

In 1950, in the presence of King George IV, Silverstone hosted the inaugural F1 World Championship Grand Prix race, won by Giuseppe Farina for Alfa Romeo, narrowly defeating his teammate Juan Manuel Fangio, and it has been a regular fixture on the Formula One calendar ever since. You can watch Silverstone-Where It All Began (Formula 1) for even more history.

While Silverstone has been the primary venue for the British Grand Prix, other circuits in the UK, such as Aintree and Brands Hatch, have also hosted the race on occasion.

Black and white image of a Silverstone car race event in 1952. Crowds gather around vintage cars and a tall tower, with flags and hilly background.

Over the years, Silverstone has undergone several modifications and upgrades to enhance the racing experience. The original circuit layout was the former perimeter track of the airfield, and it underwent several changes over the decades to improve safety and accommodate modern motorsport requirements.

Racing helmet with "M. Schumacher" text, blue and red design, displayed in a case. at the Silverstone Museum. Yellow suit with "TECHNOGYM" text in background.

Silverstone has had different ownership arrangements throughout its history. The British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) purchased the site in 1952 and remains the current owner of the brand. The BRDC is a group of more than 800 senior motorsport figures, including past and current F1 stars such as Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton, with David Coulthard as the club's president.

Silverstone has continuously evolved to meet modern motorsport standards. Various upgrades have been made to the circuit's infrastructure, including the construction of modern pit buildings, grandstands, and spectator facilities. The track has also been resurfaced multiple times to ensure optimal grip and safety for drivers.

Crowds gather at Silverstone racetrack, with jet planes trailing red and blue smoke overhead. Lenovo signs and a large race building are visible.

In addition to hosting the British Grand Prix, which welcomes over 500,000 fans over the race weekend, Silverstone has been a venue for various other prestigious motorsport events. It has welcomed series such as the FIA World Endurance Championship, British Touring Car Championship, MotoGP, and other national and international racing championships. Silverstone has its own Experience Centre offering a full range of Driving Experiences, including Ferrari, Aston Martin, Single Seater and rally cars, and offers track and testing days.

Silver sports car speeding on Silverstone race track, with empty grandstands in the background. License plate "BU67 PZY". Dynamic and fast-paced scene. — Silverstone track day - Image Porsche Club GB

Silverstone isn’t just about speed and spectacle, it’s also a hub for innovation. At the heart of this is the Silverstone Technology Cluster, a dynamic network of companies, universities, and research institutions, working together to push the boundaries of motorsport and automotive technology. It’s a place where cutting-edge ideas are born, tested, and brought to life.

Adding to this spirit of progress is the Silverstone Museum, a recent and impressive addition to the circuit. Operated by Silverstone Heritage Ltd, the museum has a strong educational mission. It aims to inspire visitors of all ages to explore careers in STEM, deepen their appreciation for motorsport, and engage with the remarkable archive of artefacts that help preserve the sport’s rich heritage for future generations.

“The Silverstone Experience is a great way to inspire kids to look more closely at the automotive industry." (Sir Lewis Hamilton 2020)

The Visitor Centre design

The Silverstone Museum has encountered as many ups and downs as any Formula 1 race, from its original concept to its reopening on 17th May 2021.

The initial plans for an attraction at Silverstone were reported in 2016, a proposed renovation of a disused World War II hanger into a dynamic, interactive and educational experience.

Rendering of people walk near the Silverstone Museum building with colorful banners. Helicopters are in the sky, and trees line the street. Bustling mood.

Cube_Design were appointed the architects for the project, which was part financed by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, to the tune of £9.1m. Work started in 2017, but the build schedule hit a roadblock when the main contractor went into administration, delaying the completion.

Renders of the Silverstone Museum exhibit with racing cars; displays include vintage cars, historical info from 1940s-1960s. Background features bold red accents.

The museum exhibits, content and tour experience were designed by Mather & Co, who also designed the Royal Mint Experience, (guide on our website). With a portfolio that includes several visitor experiences I have visited more than once, such as The R&A World Golf Museum in St Andrews and Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire, they really are a powerhouse of visitor centre design.

“The story of Silverstone is broader than just Formula 1, the site has a rich and diverse history, which has remained untold to the wider public until now and warrants further investigation and interpretation in a modern and dynamic visitor centre.” Chris Mather (Clad News 2016)

86 digital multi-media experiences, created by audio-visual, multimedia and software design firm AY-PE, complement the displays and exhibits, and give extra opportunities for interaction and education. I have enjoyed several of their installations, such as the animations at Edinburgh Castle and Titanic, Belfast.

A child in a red sweater interacts with Silverstone museum exhibits on a Frazer Nash display. Comics and car-themed panels on walls. Text includes "The 500 Club was created in 1946."

The chequered flag was finally waved when the museum, a £20 million investment for the client The British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), opened on 6th March 2020. No one at the opening ceremony, including Prince Harry and then Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, could have predicted what was to come just days after, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the museum to close its doors.

Two men, Lewis Hamilton and Prince Harry stand beside a vintage silver race car in Silverstone museum. Background displays include racing history and vibrant colors. Mood is curious.

The museum was given £710k in emergency culture government funding in 2021, after receiving $572k in 2020 from the Culture Recovery Fund, to help with the negative effects of Covid pandemic closure and restrictions, eventually reopening on 17th May 2021. In 2024 alone, more than 160,000 visitors passed through their doors.

The attraction has gone through several name changes over the years. During its early planning, it was known as the Silverstone Heritage Experience. When it first opened, it became The Silverstone Experience Museum. After reopening post-Covid, it was officially renamed the Silverstone Interactive Museum. Today, the website simply calls it The Silverstone Museum. Whatever the name, it’s undoubtedly worth an afternoon of your time. We wish everyone involved continued success for the future.

Entrance

Modern building with glass facade, "Silverstone Museum" sign, green lawn, bare trees, cloudy sky, two people walking.

From the car park out front, you head across the block-paved path, studded with the names of drivers from history. We spent a few minutes trying to find ones we knew.

Paved walkway in front of Silverstone museum with engraved names: Mike Arnett, Pam Longbone, John Nicol, and Lewis Hamilton MBE. Gray stones, organized pattern.

Head inside and you enter a double height foyer with Lewis Hamilton's 2016 Mercedes F1 W07 Hybrid hanging above you from the ceiling. There's a small ticket desk where you check in and collect your wristband. After this, your time is your own, as the museum is self-guided. Our visit was on Mother's Day, and it was surprisingly quiet. It proved to be the perfect Mother's Day treat for me.

People in a motorsport-themed store at the Silverstone museum with race cars on display. A car is suspended from the ceiling. Bright, spacious interior.

Pre-show

Your wristband is scanned, and a surge of anticipation ripples through you as you step onto the virtual grid. All around, the immersive audio-visual show flickers to life, counting down in vivid detail. Then...it's lights out.

Over the next few minutes, you’re swept into the heart of Silverstone’s storied past: the crescendo of roaring engines, the tension in the pits, the crackle of live commentary, the ebbs and flows of race day. It's a great introduction, however, this is a no photos, no videos zone, the only area in the museum that is. It certainly gets you in the mood for more.

Dark room with bright red digital numbers "01:34" on walls at the Silverstone Museum. Red strip lights on ceiling and floor, creating a futuristic atmosphere.

The Museum

From now on you can exit and enter the hangar and interact with whatever you want, without time constraints. Do make use of the café, as there is plenty to peruse, and you will need a break or two.

Silverstone Museum exhibit with vintage cars and motorcycles. Brightly colored Hepolite race car in foreground. Historical racing images on walls.

Before you race ahead, pause for a moment and glance over the mezzanine. You’ll make your way down soon enough, but for now, take your time with the fun on offer up here.

Silverstone museum with cars on display, large posters, and interactive exhibits. Black ceiling with spotlights; bright, open layout.

Thoughtfully placed glass panels line the mezzanine wall, just the right height for curious little eyes or for those in wheelchairs to peer through. It’s a small design touch, but a lovely one.

Silverstone Museum exhibit with classic race cars, motorbikes, racing memorabilia, and timeline panels on walls. Dim lighting, black and white decor.

History at Every Turn

The British Grand Prix has been held continuously at Silverstone since 1987, but some of the track’s quirky corner names such as Chapel, Becketts, Luffield, and Abbey go back much further.

Exhibit room in the Silverstone museum with large digital floor map of a racetrack, walls featuring racing images and texts like "Copse Corner." Dimly lit setting.

In this gallery, we find out how the circuit's infamous 18 turns got their names, and the history of the site, from a medieval abbey, via 18th century country estate, to a World War Two airfield.

Racing-themed wall graphics at Silverstone Museum with images of cars on track, labeled corners like Abbey Curve and Farm Curve. Red, gray, black tones. Text quotes.

The first corner of the modern F1 layout, Abbey is one of two named after the 12th-century priory, Luffield Abbey, remains of which were discovered just north of the circuit.

Map display of Luffield Abbey Becketts Chapel with historical details and roads at the Silverstone museum. Text reads: Luffield Abbey Becketts Chapel.

The story of the 12th-century monks is told through a mix of fun, interactive visuals and even spaces for younger visitors to climb through.

Exhibit room at Silverstone museum showing a "Luffield Priory" floor plan on a table. Background has projected medieval door images. Dim lighting, informative text.

There are exhibition panels with information at varying heights as everyone deserves a front-row seat to the story of Silverstone.

Information panel titled "The Chapel of St Thomas the Martyr" with historical text and images, set in a dimly lit exhibit space in the Silverstone museum.

Small grey house structure in a dimly lit room in the Silverstone museum, with a passage leading into a dark interior. "Fire exit" sign on the wall above.

Exhibit wall titled "Creating a Masterpiece" with text and two protruding viewing devices at the Silverstone museum. Blue-toned mural of nature and architecture.

The museum offers full wheelchair access across both floors, with lifts connecting all levels. If needed, wheelchairs are available to borrow at no cost, just be sure to request one in advance.

Hand touching a textured, circular model of a historical building on a blue patterned wall in the Silverstone museum. The model is clear, revealing intricate details.

And I am a huge fan of tactile exhibits, as it allows blind or visually impaired visitors to engage with objects through touch, offering a more inclusive, sensory-rich experience.

RAF Silverstone

The RAF Silverstone gallery focuses on the history of the RAF base, and the men and women who served there.

Guests can see original uniforms and a variety of military paraphernalia, and listen to inspiring tales of wartime heroics, while kids bash buttons and pull levers around you.

Silverstone Museum exhibit with WWII uniforms and gear. Two people sit reading near a wall with historical graphics. Dim lighting and modern decor.

We particularly enjoyed the two booths where we could learn about racing drivers of the time and their wartime stories. The ambient noise was perfectly controlled too, so you could hear everything.

Person seated on a bench in a grey room, in the Silverstone museum. A digital screen shows images. "Blood donor" poster on the wall.

We were particularly interested to learn about so many female racing drivers. They were true trailblazers.

Image of Margaret Mabel Gladys Jennings on an audio visual display screen at Silverstone Museum, with text detailing her as a Scottish motor racing driver. Blue background and a British flag emblem.

Being from Scotland ourselves, we found a few notable drivers from back home, such as Margaret Jennings (née Allan), who achieved a number of successes, both as a racing driver and as a rally driver, in the 1930s. When war broke out she became an ambulance driver and then worked in Hut 4 at Bletchley Park's intelligence de-coding centre (now their café. I love that place). After the war, she became a journalist and was Vogue magazine's motoring correspondent. We even came home and did some more research on her. Now that proves the day out was educational.

A black and white vintage photo in the Silverstone Museum of a woman leaning on a vintage racing car with "5" visible. She smiles at a group of children holding cameras. People in period attire in the background.

My daughter loved the interactive elements in this gallery. She flew a plane, dropped propaganda leaflets, and took aim at barrage balloons. Her years in the air cadets didn’t exactly translate into top scores, but she had fun trying.

The only downside? Even on a quiet day, we found ourselves waiting quite a while for a turn, often giving up when others took multiple goes. It speaks volumes about how engaging these gamified exhibits are - but maybe it’s time to find a clever way to limit someone taking a twelfth bombing run.

A person using a telescope in front of a sky simulation with clouds, part of a game at Silverstone museum. A digital display shows "Score 0022" and "Accuracy 66".

Interactive display at Silverstone museum with a historic map and a targeting device. Black and white with red accents. Museum setting in the background.

A display on those from the airfield that were lost during the war, served as a poignant pit stop.

Exhibit within Silverstone museum with five informational panels, projection on wall, and quote "The fighters are our salvation..." Visible mood is informative.

Village and Farm

Silverstone Museum hallway with informative wall displays and a lit exhibit table. Walls feature historical photos and text. Dimly lit, modern design.

What do elephants, carp, and farmer’s fields have to do with Silverstone? In the next gallery, you’ll uncover the site’s lesser known past as farmland, and the enduring bond between the circuit and its surrounding community.

Younger visitors will enjoy spotting which animals still call the circuit home, from deer and birds, to bugs and badgers. There’s also a strong focus on sustainability: hedgehog highways in the fences, bat boxes, solar panels on rooftops, and new initiatives to boost habitat diversity. Racing might be the headline act, but nature gets a place on the podium too.

Display in Silverstone museum with animal tracks on a panel, includes text "What animals have been seen at Silverstone?" Background shows grass and yellow walls.

Opposite this part of the gallery, you’ll find a fascinating look at the early days of racing and the Royal Automobile Club (RAC).

Silverstone Museum exhibit titled "Racing Returns" features historic racing images and text on British motorsport history, the RAC, set against a dark color scheme.

Founded in 1897 as the Automobile Club of Great Britain and Ireland, the RAC earned its “Royal” title a decade later, in 1907.

More than just a roadside assistance provider and insurance company, the RAC has been a driving force in shaping motoring across the UK, championing motorists’ interests and playing a key role in the development of early motor racing.

A person listens to an audio guide at a display about the Royal Automobile Club, RAC, at Silverstone Museum. The exhibit features historical photos and information.

You won’t find a pint in this pub, but you will hear stories straight from the locals. And as for the mysterious elephant, well, no spoilers here. You’ll have to visit to uncover that tale.

Silverstone museum exhibit of a wooden bar with vintage photos and bottles, hanging lights above. Text on the left wall reads "Silverstone 1950s." A clock and exhibit display.

It's a fun area with information delivered through several interactive elements, though you have to be nimble to bend down to see some of the display cases! Even beer mats have local anecdotes on them. That's attention to detail.

Red coaster on a wooden table in the silverstone museum pub exhibit reads "Silverstone 1980s" with a quote about motor racing. Features bottle and laurel graphics.

A fabric runner on a wooden table in the pub exhibit in silverstone museum displays text titled "SILVERSTONE 1980s" with paw print patterns on the sides.

Collection of vintage racing memorabilia, including badges, a ticket, autographs, and an "Autographs" album in a display case at the Silverstone museum.

Some of the ambient noise from other guests and areas of the museum did make it tricky to hear the sound recordings coming from the touchscreens, though my daughter was too busy playing the various games to notice.

Hands playing a board game on a racetrack-themed table. Dice, colored markers, and game instructions visible. Warm lighting.

If you want to see more items from the archive, they have volunteers in the 'Pub' on Wednesdays. This is a unique opportunity for visitors to examine historic race notes, programs, maps, driver sign-on sheets, and more. A terrific resource well worth checking out.

Woman presenting historical documents on a table in a vintage-themed room with colorful racing stickers and a bar background. — See the archive on Wednesdays - Image Silverstone Museum

Wings to Wheels

Exhibits in Wings to Wheels tell of a group of plucky drivers, including racing legend Sir Stirling Moss, who snuck onto the old airfield to race.

Colorful wall display at Silverstone museum about Silverstone's first Grand Prix, featuring text, graphics, and a photo of Jimmy Brown. Bold black header text.

On 2 October 1948, the Royal Automobile Club hosted the first British Grand Prix at Silverstone, in front of 100,000 spectators on a track marked out with straw bales, oil drums and rope. One of the official programme's for the event is on show and I loved the fonts and painterly graphics. You can watch a video online of the race and see some of the spectacular crashes.

Magazine cover for the 1948 International Grand Prix at Silverstone, in a glass case at Silverstone museum, featuring green and red race cars with text: "The Autocar".

Agile visitors can manoeuvre themselves into a 1940s racing car and pretend to be one of those vintage racers. I've tried getting into race cars at the likes of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, and suffice to say, racing drivers have different body shapes than me!

Silverstone Museum exhibit with vintage racing cars on display. People observing. Walls feature “Girling” and “Dunlop” signs. Dim lighting.

My daughter found a brass rubbing station, and wanted a go, but alas, they had run out of supplies. Haynes Museum (a guide for which is on the website) also has brass rubbing stations and they were popular there too. It's funny how simple that nostalgic hit can be.

Posters on a wall invite designing a 1948 Grand Prix ad using rubbing plates. A sketched car is pinned, with scattered papers below.

Race Day explained

This gallery explains the behind the scene work that goes on to prepare a car for race day.

Car simulation control panel with grip handles, buttons, and text about practicing wheel changes at the Silverstone museum. Red and blue vehicle parts in the background.

Visitors learn about marshalling, the pit crew and mechanics, track safety, and can try their hand at commentating and using the pit guns. I am no Murray Walker it turns out.

Exhibit on personal safety in motorsport at Silverstone museum, showcasing protective gear in a glass case, with racing suit displays and an info panel on materials.

Race exhibit in Silverstone museum with orange "Race Day, Race Marshals" sign, colored flags, and safety barriers. Photos of people on wall in background.

Racing Eras

Ready for a serious nostalgia hit? You can get close to some of the most iconic racing and touring cars and bikes, alongside treasured artefacts, from helmets and race suits, to programmes and trophies, all carefully preserved and drawn from the extensive BRDC archive.

Vintage green car displayed in Silverstone Museum, surrounded by racing memorabilia and black-and-white photos on the wall, under a modern ceiling.

The exhibits here are regularly refreshed and always captivating, beautifully detailed with striking graphic backdrops and a massive AV projection wall. Touchscreens and headphones provide extra layers of info, making the experience fully immersive.

Colorful vintage race cars and bikes displayed inthe Silverstone museum with racing posters, under bright lights. Person in white coat observing.

I have to confess, I spent most of our visit lingering in this spacious gallery, caught up in nostalgia as I shared stories with my daughter, feeling pretty ancient explaining the Hunt-Lauda duels, Prost-Senna battles, and Mansell-Schumacher rivalries she never lived through. The panels are brought vividly to life with videos featuring legends of racing, past and present, adding real depth to the history on display.

Audiovisual display in the Silverstone museum showing a vintage racing scene with pit crew attending a green car. Flags above, text reads "The Royal Automobile Club. Grand Prix d'Europe."

Screen displays in the Silverstone Museum show a man sitting on a couch with subtitles. Below are black-and-white images of 1950s race cars in motion. Text details race history.

There are even documents signed by famous drivers.

Exhibit of vintage cars and motorcycles, including a red car and green race car, displayed in Silverstone museum with historic racing photos on walls.

There are some very special exhibits here too, such as motorcycle racing legend Barry Sheen's Suzuki RT-67, one of the rarest bikes in the world, on which he won 3 world championships in the 1970s, and his leathers from his last season in 1984.

Motorcycle racing suit with Barry Sheen name on it and helmet in a glass display case at the Silverstone museum, with various sponsor logos. A vintage motorcycle is visible in the background.

Blue Suzuki racing bike with number 16, displayed indoors at the Silverstone museum with a red vintage car in the background. Bright lighting highlights chrome details.

Also on display is Nigel Mansell’s iconic Williams F1 race suit from his 1987 season, when he famously won the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Nearby, you’ll find Sir Jackie Stewart’s 1971 Tyrrell 003, the very car he drove to clinch the Formula One World Championship.

Blue race car with number 2 in the Silverstone museum. Nearby, vintage racing suits displayed in a glass case. Black-and-white race scene mural in background.

Younger visitors can dress up as Lewis or you can just gaze at his race suit and helmet from the 2020 British Grand Prix. I definitely did not fit in them!

Silverstone museum dressing up area with racing overalls hanging beside a poster of Lewis Hamilton holding a trophy labeled "2017 Rolex British GP, Silverstone." Cars and checkered pattern in background.

Racing suits and helmets displayed in a glass case at the Silverstone Museum. The teal suit labeled "Cognizant" and black suit "Petronas" are accompanied by helmets and gloves.

Whilst there’s nowhere near the range of vehicles you find at the British Motor Museum or at Haynes Motor Museum in Somerset, it is worth remembering that this museum is continually adding new vehicles to their collection and the exhibits change throughout the year.

Racing cars displayed in a museum: a white Formula 1 car with Virgin logos and a vintage red car with number 27. Informational signs nearby.

In fact the Museum has just added Lando Norris's 2019 McLaren MCL34, the car that launched his F1 career.

Three men load Lando Norris's orange and blue McLaren Formula 1 car with sponsor logos onto a truck under a cloudy sky, conveying focus and teamwork. — Lando Norris's 2019 McLaren arrives at the museum - Image Silverstone Museum

Tech Lab

In Tech Lab, visitors can learn about how cars and motorbikes are designed, tested and developed and have a go at multiple hands-on installations that explain engineering processes, such as aerodynamics, braking, and tyre compounds.

Modern exhibit space in Silverstone Museum with interactive displays and tech elements. Blue-lit ceiling, informational text on walls. Sleek, futuristic design.

Here was another area where ambient noise was an issue. The gallery is large, with a lot going on in one space, and when you add guests talking into the equation, some might struggle, as we did, to catch all the content.

Four tyre samples display wear types on a blue surface in the lab room at Silverstone Museum. Labels read: "Hot Tear," "Graining," "Blistering," "Blue Tyre." Text: "Tyres - Wear and Tear."

There is so much to educate and inspire future engineers here though, and no doubt this section is especially useful for school visits.

Wind tunnel exhibit at Silverstone museum showing aerodynamic models, text displays "Aerofoil," "Drag Reduction Systems," and "Working with Wind." Modern setting.

The Scalextric Set

A 25-metre-long Scalextric recreation of Silverstone allows slot car fans the chance to take part in time trials and tournaments, which have to be pre-booked. The geek that I am, I'm heading to Hornby's visitor centre soon, as they make Scalextric, as well as train and Airfix models.

People observe a detailed diorama and Scalextric set at the Silverstone Museum. The room is dimly lit with blue hues and racing-themed decor.

Simulator experience

The motion simulator sessions have to be booked separately, and when we visited the area was surprisingly empty. It is hailed as "the UK's best sim racing setup" but the cost of living crisis has many people cutting back on spending extra on top of the entrance fee maybe. Simulator slots last for 30 minutes, cost £25 per person, and can be booked online.

Empty room in the Silverstone museum with white chairs facing two racing simulators. Trophies in a glass case on the left. Dark walls and floor create a muted atmosphere.

New Exhibition

Silverstone Museum is marking 75 years of the FIA Formula 1® Driver’s World Championship with a brand-new exhibition, launched on 13 May 2025, exactly 75 years after the first championship race at Silverstone in 1950.

Two racing cars are displayed in a museum exhibit at Silverstone museum with vibrant red walls. Text panels highlight Ferrari's legacy. Ellie mentions "75 World Championship Wins." — 75 years of the FIA Formula 1® Driver’s World Championship exhibition Silverstone Museum- Image Daventry Express

The special display brings together over 60 historic items, including legendary race cars, driver suits, trophies, and rare memorabilia. From classics like the Lotus 72 to a 2023 Mercedes, the exhibition charts the evolution of F1® through the decades.

Running until the end of September 2025, it’s a must-see for motorsport fans, right next to the circuit where it all began.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see this unique collection of F1® cars and exhibits, some of which have never been on display to the public before. We are thrilled to be able to showcase so many iconic F1® cars alongside amazing artefacts from our archives, as we commemorate every decade of the Formula 1® Driver's World Championship demonstrating how F1® has become a global phenomenon.” (Rob Jaina, Head of Learning and Engagement at Silverstone Museum - Daventry Express 2025)

The Ultimate Lap

Our final stop was the special effects cinema dome, billed as “The Ultimate Lap of Silverstone” with commentary from legends like Murray Walker. While it was the only disappointment of the day, I truly appreciate the huge effort behind it, such as the intricate 3D modeling and CGI work. That said, neither I, nor many other guests on the day I visited, enjoyed it. Why use animation when real race footage would have been more authentic and thrilling? The rumble seats moved unpredictably, out of sync with the visuals, making the 360° experience feel more like a spin in a washing machine. Everyone left a little bemused, and judging by online reviews, we weren’t alone.

My daughter summed it up perfectly: her idea of the ultimate lap would be sitting behind the wheel with Lewis or Lando, in an actual race, but with all the sights, sounds, smells, and motion that a real lap would bring, like watching on TV but even better. One small letdown in an afternoon packed with fun isn’t too bad at all however.

The Café

Silverstone museum cafe with tables and chairs, people ordering at a counter, shelves of drinks and snacks labeled "Grab & Go." Large windows, bright lighting.

The café offered simple fayre at reasonable prices, considering we were a captive market. There is no competition surrounding the museum, so this could be your only option for food during your visit. It was clean and quiet, only half filling up at lunchtime.

Empty Silverstone museum cafeteria with light gray seating, wooden tables, circular ceiling fixtures, and large windows showing a grassy landscape.

Track access

There is no view of the circuit from the museum, which is a bit of a shame. However, guests can exit through a door by the café and get access to some of the old track and a viewing area, from which, if you're lucky like we were, you can watch cars racing past.

Race cars on a track at Silverstone, surrounded by grass and fencing. Sign reads "Danger Prohibited Area." Cloudy sky, buildings in view.

During big events like the British Grand Prix and Moto GP there is no track access from the museum and even we found that full access to the Heritage Track Trail was restricted slightly due to cars on track.

Sign on the track tour area at Silverstone Museum titled "Racing Into Bridge" details Formula 1 history. Background shows a mural of Lewis Hamilton with a Union Jack, under cloudy sky.

There are plenty of signs and information boards, so it's well worth a trip outside. We were out there for half an hour and could have stayed longer. It definitely convinced my daughter to add a trip to the Grand Prix to her bucket list.

If only they offered a track tour like they do at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I'd happily pay for a spin round the track and some views behind the scenes.

The Shop

Silverstone museum shop interior with people browsing merchandise. Walls lined with shelves and colorful items. Bright daylight through large windows. Calm atmosphere.

The retail space is quite small in comparison to the size of the museum and does not hold an overwhelming amount of stock.

Merchandise display at the Silverstone museum shop featuring a mug, coaster, tin, and book with Silverstone circuit graphics. Bright colors on a wooden shelf.

My daughter was looking for a greater selection of apparel and team merchandise in store.

Toy shelf in the shop at the Silverstone museum displaying vibrant racing cars, playsets, and boxes with "Ferrari" branding. Background features glass and wood surfaces.

Gallery wall in the Silverstone museum shop with colorful F1 car art; shirts and merchandise on shelves. Bright, modern setting with overhead lights and gray floor.

Compared to the museum shop at Haynes Motor Museum, it could do with offering a bit more for the petrol head or casual race fan. Since 2024 however, there is a larger selection on the museum's new online store, from team clothing and merch, to F1 and racing collectibles.

Hotel

Silverstone collaborated with Hilton to open its first trackside hotel, the Hilton Garden Inn Silverstone, with a bridge linking the five-storey hotel to the Silverstone Wing and its dining, conference and event facilities.

The Hilton Garden Inn, Silverstone has a rooftop bar, a restaurant with an outdoor terrace, and 197 rooms and suites offering stonking views of the legendary starting grid and Hamilton Straight. I know where I'll be booking the next time I visit.

In conclusion

This is yet another standout visitor centre from Mather & Co, which has been expertly curated, beautifully presented, and cleverly designed. There's plenty of content on show, but it never feels overwhelming. The artefacts are dramatically lit, exhibits are well spaced out with clear and engaging text and visuals, and the wide circulation routes mean your view is rarely blocked by other guests, which is a real benefit when it's busy. The brand’s story and racing heritage are told with attention to detail and care.

Young and old have clearly been considered. Quirky interactive displays and playful projections keep younger visitors entertained, while motorsport enthusiasts can dive deeper into the rich detail. The gamification trend in museums is evident in the simulator experience, Scalextric track and the welcome new addition of an old design favourite of mine, a Silverstone Legends Top Trumps pack, on sale in the shop. Add in the family Activity Trail for the exhibition and the big kid in me will have great fun next time! Maybe they listened to my feedback from the Haynes Museum.

Accessibility is thoughtfully addressed and still evolving, with the 2024 introduction of the WelcoMe platform, allowing visitors to communicate their needs in advance. There’s also plenty of seating throughout, something many venues overlook. It’s essential for those with mobility challenges, but appreciated by anyone pacing themselves through a longer visit.

There’s much for visitors with sight loss to engage with, though more tactile scale models, especially of the cars and bikes in the Racing Eras gallery, would be a valuable addition. I’ve only seen this done in a handful of places with such prized collections, such as in MAUTO in Turin, but it makes a real difference when so much is behind glass or roped off.

The “Ultimate Lap” film was the one misfire for us. Despite the impressive production effort, the animation lacked the authenticity and thrill of real race footage, and the motion seats felt oddly disconnected. It’s a shame this comes at the end of the experience. I’d love to see it reworked to better appeal to petrolheads. Not everything needs to be for the kids.

There’s real potential here for reminiscence work too, a real passion of mine. I know, from personal experience, how museum artefacts can stimulate conversations and memories for those living with, or caring for, someone with dementia. And the nostalgic pull is really powerful here for everyone. Nostalgia tourism has become a growing trend, with visitors seeking comfort in past memories, in a rapidly uncertain world. The historic exhibits connected us to the brand in a deeply personal and engaging way.

With regularly refreshed exhibitions, drawn for a vast archive, Silverstone Museum remains fresh, relevant, and rooted in the very legacy of British motorsport. History buffs, motor racing fans, and even those with just a passing interest, will all find something to learn, enjoy, and be inspired by here.

Stop lingering in the pits and book in.

How long was the visit?

We were there for 5 hours on a Sunday and only left as we had a flight to catch. We had just about read and interacted with everything, but it was quiet and during the school summer holidays I would imagine it would be busier. The brand recommend a 3 hour visit, so we took a bit longer but did stop for lunch in the café.

How much are tickets?

We paid for our own tickets and this was not part of any advertising.

I paid for our tickets online, and they cost £23.50 per adult.

You can return for free within the year, which I might do.

Carers can enter for free with a person requiring a disability ticket and the museum offers relaxed opening hours for visitors with neurodiverse conditions and other sensory processing difficulties, and their families/carers.

As they close during the F1 weekend, the museum is open for FREE to British Grand Prix ticket holders, if you can drag yourself away from the on track action.

Opening times

It's always worth checking with the museum for their current opening times, as they can vary.

They currently open from 10am-4pm Mon to Fri, 10a,-5pm Sat and Sun.

Last entry is 2 hours before closing, and that can really hamper what you can do. We watched as many visitors were politely turned away.

Website: Silverstone Museum

Where we stayed:

We stayed for one night at the closest hotel we could find, the Premier Inn Silverstone, just a 6 minute drive away from the museum. It might have been close, and had free parking, comfy beds and a large family room, but they have no air conditioning! I know from attending race days that the price for this hotel can be eye-watering and would be far from value for money, but it is undoubtedly close by.

Hotel room with two neatly made twin beds, neutral tones, striped carpet, and floral art on the wall. Cozy and tidy atmosphere.

Consider staying somewhere for a few days in the Cotswolds, like we did when visiting for the British Grand Prix. Ot can be surprisingly easy to get to the circuit from there, even on race weekend.

Getting here:

We were on a 3 day long weekend trip from Scotland, flying in from Edinburgh to London Luton airport with EasyJet and hiring a car. Both Birmingham and Luton Airport are just over an hour long drive from the museum, with Heathrow an hour and a quarter drive away.

If you're driving like we were, just follow signs to Silverstone Circuit and the museum has signage and a large car park in front, which is free.

NOTE: If you attend on a major event weekend (when a ticket to the race meeting is compulsory), you will be directed to the main available public car parks, which will not be immediately adjacent to the building.

What else is there to see close by:

There are a few places I have visited and enjoyed that I can recommend.

Bletchley Park, home of the code-breaking teams of the Second World War is just 18 miles away. The last time I visited I was there for 6 hours and still didn't finish everything. It is truly fascinating and inspiring.

The famous university city of Oxford and its numerous attractions are just 30 miles from Silverstone. The city has a park-and-ride system that you should use, that saves you from having to find limited and expensive parking in the city centre. Harry Potter fans can see some of the filming locations such as Christ Church College and the stunning Bodleian Library. I would also recommend two fabulous museums, the Ashmolean and one of my personal favourites, The Pitt Rivers, which holds the University's eclectic archaeological and anthropological collections.

Silverstone is also easy to reach from the Cotswolds and its famous towns such as Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon (40 miles away) and Stow-on-the-Wold (38 miles away) plus many others. The area has multiple, quaint and historic villages, plus a wealth of cultural attractions and I can recommend spending at least a few days in the area.

50 miles away is the Warner Brother's Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter, which I visited during the same weekend, and which I have written about on this site.

Diorama of a castle with spires on rocky terrain under dim lighting. Visitors observe from a walkway, creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Racing fans, if you liked this article then check out our guide to The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

And for any car fans, if you liked this post, then check out our guides to Haynes Motor Museum or Morgan Cars Factory Tour, or the fabulous MAUTO Museum in Turin. More car related visitor guides coming soon.

Disclaimer - The views and opinions expressed are solely my own. I paid for the tours in full and any comments reflect my personal experiences on that day. Please visit and garner your own thoughts and feel free to research the brand and the visitor centre in question.