Is there any better feeling than getting behind the wheel on a Sunday afternoon and indulging in beautifully tarmacked coastal routes? Yes, there is. For many of us, driving the car of our dreams on a daily basis is nothing more than a pipe dream — and even if we were to get the opportunity to do so, it isn’t like you can really open up a super car on the way to the shops.
However, thanks to the invention of driving experiences, ten years ago, what may have been impossible, is now well within the realms of feasibility. If you have a massive petrol head at home and you’re struggling to find them a present, this might be right up their street. Alternatively, you could just be interested in letting the rubber meet the tarmac yourself, therefore, let’s take a look at the crème de la crème of days out for car enthusiasts.
Aston Martin Adventure
When asked to describe an immense piece of British automotive engineering, anyone would struggle not to say Aston Martin. Based in North London, this experience, provided by Red Letter Days, allows you to sit behind the wheel of four of Aston Martin’s finest models — the DB7, Vanquish, V8 Vantage N400 Roadster, and the DBS.
When you arrive, you’ll be greeted and prepped by a professional instructor before being let loose to enjoy the adventure of a lifetime. You’ll steer your way through six legs of the specially-designed course, taking in the experience as both a driver and passenger.
Where they are based: Brent Cross, London
Mercedes-Benz World
For any Mercedes enthusiast this is a must of a day out — MB World in Surrey offers both track and off-road experiences. The good news is, for those indecisive folks among us, you can choose to participate in both on the same day! With expert one-to-one guidance by one of their driving experts from the passenger seat, you’ll be able to get the most out of your experiences.
Not only do you get the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the likes of a Mercedes Gla, you get to do so at the world-famous Brooklands motor racing circuit, allowing you to relish in the unbelievable acceleration provided by the immensely powerful high-performance engine. Off road, you will have the opportunity to explore MB World’s 10-acre terrain in their latest 4×4 vehicles and take in the unique challenges provided by extreme inclines and water crossings.
Not of legal driving age yet? No need to worry. Under 17s — as long as you’re tall enough to reach the pedals — are welcome to drive on part of the original circuit at Brooklands. There’s even a little learners section for kids aged between the ages of three and five to take to their specially-designed indoor driving circuit! Happy days!
How to find them: Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, Surrey, KT13 0SL
Book your experience here.
Stunt driving at Silverstone
As a petrol head, what better way to spend the day than to race round the course that has hosted the likes of the Montoya vs Schumacher battle? This awesome experience sees you take to the home of British motor racing alongside Top Gear’s stunt driver and seven-time British Motorsport champion, Paul Swift, to learn the art of stunt driving.
The teacher will demonstrate and assist you in learning how to complete manoeuvres including J-turns and 360-degree handbrake turns to get the pulse pounding. Not only that, but you’ll have the chance to tackle the track’s slalom course!
Where: Silverstone, Northamptonshire
Ferrari vs Lamborghini driving thrill
Bologna and Maranello have created two of the most majestic cars to ever be. The Italian giants are both so similar, yet so different! Do you prefer Ferrari’s classic style, or the ‘in your face’ approach of Lamborghini? Either way, this opportunity will help make your mind up.
F430, 360, 355, and California models, are just a handful of the Ferraris you could negotiate, while you will get to grips with Lamborghini’s Gallardo. With locations across the UK, this really could be the perfect experience for car lovers.
Where: nationwide
Quadruple Platinum Supercar Thrill at Goodwood
It is a bold claim to describe something as ultimate, but anyone would struggle to dispute that this is the ultimate supercar experience — it offers a selection of high-end models from which to take your pick. Audi fan? Choose their R8 V10. If Lamborghinis are more your cup of tea, you can ride the LP570, or why not get behind the wheel of McLaren’s 570S?
Goodwood, a circuit which is synonymous with racing throughout the world. You’ll be sharing the tarmac with some of the motoring world’s driving legends as you whizz round 4.8 miles of marvellous mayhem.
Where to go: Goodwood, Chichester, West Sussex
Book your adventure here.
Although we’ve picked a handful of our favourite days out, the UK is awash with driving experiences, so you won’t be stuck for options — and they are all across the country as well.